Ingredients (Serves 4)
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1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 cup tomato juice (or Clamato for more authentic flavor)
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1/2 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
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1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
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1/2 cup finely chopped tomato
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1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
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1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
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1 avocado, diced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: hot sauce (like Valentina or Tabasco)
Instructions
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Prepare the shrimp:
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If shrimp are raw, boil them in salted water for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque.
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Drain, cool, and chop into bite-sized pieces if large.
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Mix the cocktail base:
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In a large bowl, combine tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using.
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Stir well to create a tangy, slightly spicy base.
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Add vegetables and shrimp:
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Gently fold in cucumber, tomato, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and shrimp.
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Chill:
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
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Serve:
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Spoon into individual glasses or bowls.
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Top with diced avocado just before serving.
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Serve with tortilla chips or saltine crackers on the side.
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💡 Tips:
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Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled lime juice can be too sharp.
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You can make it spicier with extra jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce.
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Some people like to add a little orange juice or clam juice for extra depth.
I can also give a “street-style” Mexican shrimp cocktail version that’s served in a cup with hot sauce, lime, and Tajín for that classic market taste. Do you want me to do that?