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Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Tangy Sauce

Plump, cooked shrimp arranged next to a small glass bowl of bright red shrimp cocktail sauce.
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Make this elegant and easy shrimp cocktail appetizer for your next party. You get plump, chilled shrimp served with a zesty, homemade cocktail sauce that tastes better than store-bought.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs large shrimp (31/40 count), peeled and deveined
  • 1 large lemon, halved
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • Ice for chilling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp: Fill a large pot with water, add the lemon halves, bay leaf, and salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 4 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  3. Immediately drain the shrimp and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the chilled shrimp well and pat them dry with paper towels. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  5. Make the homemade cocktail sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, if using.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and chill the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. To serve, arrange the chilled shrimp around the rim of a large glass bowl or platter, with the cocktail sauce in the center. You can also serve the shrimp on individual plates with a small cup of sauce.

Notes

  • For an impressive presentation, arrange the shrimp on a platter lined with crushed ice, or form a festive shrimp cocktail wreath using fresh rosemary as garnish.
  • If you want a spicier sauce, increase the amount of horseradish or hot sauce.
  • You can make the cocktail sauce up to three days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/shrimp-cocktail-classic-recipe-homemade-sauce/