Description
Turn your next gathering into a culinary hit with this Zesty Shrimp Cocktail Party Appetizer! Packed with tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and a bold, tangy dressing, this dish is the perfect balance of freshness and spice. Whether served in individual cups or a stunning bowl, it’s guaranteed to wow your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound medium shrimp (raw or pre-cooked)
- Kosher salt (for seasoning)
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup peeled, diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, chopped, OR 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 to 4 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Crystal or Tabasco), to taste
- 1 avocado, cut into chunks
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp:
- If raw shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp.
- Bring a medium pot of salted water (1 tablespoon salt per 2 quarts) to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until just opaque.
- Drain the shrimp and cool them by chilling in ice water or in the refrigerator. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid for later use.
- Cut half the shrimp into large chunks, leaving the other half whole for garnish.
- If pre-cooked shrimp: Skip the above cooking steps and proceed directly to the chopping stage.
- Combine the main ingredients:
- In a large bowl, add the chopped shrimp, red onion, cucumber, celery, jalapeño, tomatoes, ketchup, cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce.
- Gently toss the ingredients to combine.
- Adjust the consistency:
- Gradually add the reserved shrimp cooking liquid (or lightly salted water) until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. This will create a lightly saucy texture.
- Add avocado and final touches:
- Gently fold in the avocado chunks to avoid mashing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and hot sauce, if needed.
- Chill and serve:
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve in small bowls or parfait glasses with tortilla chips or crackers on the side. Garnish with lime wedges and whole shrimp for a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Customizations:
Swap jalapeño for serrano peppers if you want more heat, or use bell peppers for a milder option. - Storage:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. - Serving Tip:
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips, fresh baguette slices, or as a topping for tostadas. - Vegan Alternative:
Substitute shrimp with diced hearts of palm or jackfruit for a plant-based version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (if cooking shrimp)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook (or boiling if shrimp are raw)
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired