Shrimp Cocktail

A classic, elegant shrimp cocktail with tender shrimp, crisp lettuce, and a tangy homemade cocktail sauce. Quick, fresh, and perfect as a light starter.

Shrimp cocktail is a timeless light dish made with perfectly cooked shrimp served chilled with a bright, tangy sauce. It is simple to prepare, looks elegant on the table, and works beautifully as a starter for dinners, holidays, and special occasions. For the best result, use fresh shrimp, cook them just until tender, and chill well before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups water
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 cups ice
• 1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded
• For the cocktail sauce:
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce, optional
• Pinch of salt
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Fill a medium saucepan with water, then add the lemon halves, bay leaf, salt, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes depending on size.
3. Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Let them chill for 3 minutes, then drain well and pat dry.
4. In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce if using, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
5. Arrange the shredded lettuce in a serving glass or bowl. Place the chilled shrimp over the lettuce and serve with the cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
6. Refrigerate until ready to serve, but do not leave the shrimp at room temperature for long.