Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, or Coctel de Camarones, is a vibrant and refreshing appetizer that combines succulent shrimp with a zesty pico de gallo mixture. Enhanced with creamy avocado and fresh lime juice, this dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a festive starter. Serve it chilled with tortilla chips or saltine crackers for a delightful experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

3 Roma or plum tomatoes, diced
½ cup diced red onion
⅓ cup chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
Juice of 2 fresh limes
Salt, to taste
12 ounces cocktail sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (cooked or raw)
2 ripe avocados, chopped
Tortilla chips or saltine crackers, for serving

Directions

Prepare Pico de Gallo: In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture, season with salt, and toss to combine.
Mix with Cocktail Sauce: Add the cocktail sauce to the pico de gallo and stir until well combined. Refrigerate the mixture while preparing the shrimp.
Cook Shrimp: If using raw shrimp, rinse them under cold water and drain well. Remove tails if necessary. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the shrimp, and cook for about 2 minutes or until they turn white with pink accents. Drain and immediately cover the shrimp with cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and chop each shrimp into 2 or 3 pieces.
Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Add the chopped shrimp to the chilled cocktail sauce mixture and stir to combine.
Prepare Avocado: Just before serving, chop the avocados and squeeze the juice of the remaining lime over them to prevent browning.
Serve: In a large serving bowl, layer the shrimp cocktail mixture and top with chopped avocado, reserved shrimp pieces, and additional cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips or saltine crackers.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (approximately 1/6 of the recipe):

Calories: 260 kcal
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Protein: 19 g
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 191 mg
Sodium: 1354 mg
Potassium: 711 mg
Fiber: 9 g
Sugar: 8 g
Vitamin A: 838 IU
Vitamin C: 34 mg
Calcium: 143 mg
Iron: 3 mg

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

While Mexican Shrimp Cocktail’s recipe may vary slightly from region to region or household to household, it typically consists of fresh shrimp, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and avocado, all bound together with a tangy cocktail sauce. This refreshing dish is often served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and creating a refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the heat of spicy peppers.

The shrimp, which are the star of the dish, should be fresh and cooked just right to ensure they are tender but still firm. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so the key is to cook them lightly and allow them to cool before adding them to the cocktail sauce.

Tomatoes, red onions, and jalapeño peppers form the base of the pico de gallo-style mixture. These ingredients provide a burst of freshness and crunch, complementing the shrimp perfectly. The addition of lime juice adds a refreshing zing, while the avocado adds a creamy texture that balances out the acidity and heat.

The Versatility of Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

One of the key reasons why Mexican Shrimp Cocktail has gained so much popularity is its versatility. Not only is it ideal as an appetizer, but it can also be served as a main course, especially during the summer months when the weather calls for light, refreshing meals. You can even customize the recipe according to your preferences, adding more heat with extra jalapeños, or adjusting the sweetness and acidity with more lime juice or tomatoes.

Many people also experiment with different variations, such as adding mango or pineapple for a tropical twist or using a tangy hot sauce for an extra layer of spice. The dish also adapts well to serving styles. While it’s traditionally served in a glass or bowl, it can be served on a platter with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping. You can even serve it in small cups or shooters for a fun, party-ready presentation.

Additionally, the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail can easily be made into a gluten-free or dairy-free dish, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. The absence of heavy sauces or creamy bases means that the dish remains light and suitable for most people, and it pairs well with a wide range of beverages, including cold beers, sparkling water, or light white wines.

Health Benefits of Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Aside from its delicious flavor, Mexican Shrimp Cocktail offers numerous health benefits that make it a nutritious option for those seeking a lighter meal. Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle. Shrimp is also low in calories and fat, so it makes for a satisfying yet light option for anyone looking to enjoy a filling dish without overindulging.

The vegetables used in the dish, such as tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that promote overall health. Tomatoes are packed with vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Onions and cilantro are also beneficial for their anti-inflammatory properties, which support immune function and digestion.

The avocado in the recipe not only adds a creamy texture but also provides heart-healthy fats in the form of monounsaturated fats. These fats are beneficial for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and supporting brain function. Additionally, avocados are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle and nerve function.

Furthermore, the addition of fresh lime juice provides a boost of vitamin C, which is essential for immune health and the absorption of iron. The acidity of the lime juice helps balance the flavors in the dish and enhances the overall taste profile.

Cultural Significance of Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail has deep cultural roots in Mexico, especially in coastal regions where seafood is a staple part of the diet. The dish is often associated with beachside dining and gatherings, where locals enjoy fresh seafood in a casual and laid-back atmosphere. In Mexico, seafood cocktails like Coctel de Camarones are often served as a snack or appetizer at family gatherings, celebrations, and holiday festivities.

The use of fresh ingredients and seafood is an important aspect of Mexican cuisine, which emphasizes seasonality and locality in food preparation. In fact, the shrimp cocktail was likely influenced by the coastal regions’ access to fresh shrimp and seafood, combined with Mexico’s love for bold, flavorful ingredients like lime, chili, and cilantro.

The dish has become a beloved part of the country’s culinary identity and is often served in Mexican restaurants both in Mexico and internationally. It has even made its way into the United States and other parts of the world, becoming a popular appetizer for seafood lovers. Its accessibility and customizable nature have helped it remain a favorite choice for casual dining, formal dinners, and parties alike.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail can be served in various ways to suit different occasions and tastes. For a traditional presentation, serve the cocktail in tall glasses or small bowls, layering the shrimp, sauce, and vegetables for an elegant look. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges, and serve with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.

For a more casual approach, consider serving the shrimp cocktail on a platter, allowing guests to scoop the mixture onto their plates. This presentation is ideal for family-style meals or casual gatherings, where guests can help themselves and enjoy the dish at their own pace.

If you’re hosting a party or event, you can even serve the shrimp cocktail in small cups or shooters, making it easier for guests to enjoy in one bite. This presentation is fun and festive, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your next gathering. Pair with a selection of cold beverages, such as beer, margaritas, or sparkling water, for a complete meal or snack.

Conclusion

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of fresh seafood, bold flavors, and the vibrant culture of Mexico. With its combination of shrimp, vegetables, citrus, and avocado, it’s a refreshing and healthy appetizer or meal that can be enjoyed by anyone. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to adapt to various tastes make it an ideal choice for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering, a holiday feast, or a casual weeknight meal.

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