Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style

When it comes to vibrant and refreshing dishes, Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style stands out as a true crowd-pleaser. This dish perfectly combines the freshness of seafood with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. The zesty and tangy elements in this recipe make it a perfect appetizer for gatherings, parties, or even a light meal on a warm day.

Imagine succulent shrimp, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables all bathed in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with a kick of citrus and spice. Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style brings together the essence of coastal flavors with a hint of heat, creating a dish that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Recipe Quick Facts

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: Mexican

Course: Appetizer

Dietary Labels: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– The combination of fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.

– Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

– Adaptable to personal preferences, allowing you to customize the spice level and ingredients.

– Perfect for serving at outdoor parties, picnics, or as a refreshing starter for a Mexican-themed meal.

Ingredients

For the Cocktail:

– 1 pound large cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 2 cups diced tomatoes

– 1/2 cup chopped red onion

– 1/2 cup diced cucumber

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

– 1 avocado, diced

– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced

– 1/4 cup ketchup

– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

– 1 tablespoon hot sauce

– Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

– Lime wedges

– Tortilla chips

When preparing the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style, ensure you use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall taste and appearance of the dish. Opt for ripe tomatoes, firm avocados, and crisp vegetables for the best results.

Equipment Needed

– Mixing bowl

– Sharp knife

– Cutting board

– Citrus juicer

– Serving glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, cilantro, avocado, and jalapeño.

2. Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and gently toss the ingredients together.

3. In a separate small bowl, mix the ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper to create the cocktail sauce.

4. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetable mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Success:

– For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add more hot sauce according to your preference.

– Adjust the amount of lime juice to balance the acidity of the cocktail sauce.

– Serve the cocktail in chilled glasses to keep it cool and refreshing.

Substitutions & Variations

– To make the cocktail milder, remove the jalapeño seeds and membrane before adding to the mix.

– For a different twist, substitute the ketchup with cocktail sauce for a tangier flavor profile.

– Experiment with adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tropical touch to the dish.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

– Store any leftover Mexican Shrimp Cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

– To make ahead, prepare the cocktail mixture and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style with a side of tortilla chips for scooping up the flavorful mixture.

– Pair the cocktail with a cold Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita for a complete dining experience.

– Garnish each serving with a lime wedge and an extra sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a vibrant presentation.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

FAQ

1. Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the cocktail just before serving for the best taste and texture.

2. Can I bake instead of fry?

As this recipe is for a chilled shrimp cocktail, there is no baking or frying involved.

3. What can I substitute for jalapeño?

If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute the jalapeño with a bell pepper for a similar crunch without the heat.

4. How do I know when it’s done?

The shrimp cocktail is ready to serve once the shrimp are fully coated in the zesty sauce and all ingredients are well mixed.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

It is not recommended to freeze the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail as the texture of the ingredients may change upon thawing.

6. How long do they last?

The cocktail can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Recipe Notes

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Mexican coastal cuisine. The combination of fresh seafood, tangy sauce, and crisp vegetables makes it a versatile and delightful appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a flavorful snack, this zesty shrimp cocktail is sure to impress your taste buds and guests alike.

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Servings

⏱️

Prep time

20 minutes

🔥

Cooking time

5 minutes

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Calories

250 kcal

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Zesty Style is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the freshness of seafood with bold Mexican flavors. Succulent shrimp, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables are bathed in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with a kick of citrus and spice, creating a satisfying and invigorating appetizer.

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Ingredients

1 pound large cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups diced tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 avocado, diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon hot sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges
Tortilla chips

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, cilantro, avocado, and jalapeño.
Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and gently toss the ingredients together.
In a separate small bowl, mix the ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper to create the cocktail sauce.
Pour the sauce over the shrimp and vegetable mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Chill the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.