Here’s a full, structured recipe profile for your Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, crafted with depth and cultural appreciation:
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones)
Introduction
Refreshing, zesty, and bursting with bold flavors, Mexican Shrimp Cocktail—Cóctel de Camarones—is a vibrant seafood dish that combines chilled shrimp with crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and a tangy-spicy tomato-based sauce. Often served as a starter or light meal, it’s beloved for its colorful presentation and punchy flavor profile. This recipe is a family favorite—so much so, it’s reserved for special occasions in some homes.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Originating in the coastal regions of Mexico, Cóctel de Camarones blends indigenous seafood traditions with European culinary influences. Often enjoyed at seafood markets, street stands, and festive gatherings, it’s a dish that symbolizes celebration and indulgence. Similar to ceviche, but with a cocktail-style sauce, it reflects Mexico’s love for bold, layered flavors and fresh ingredients. The dish is traditionally served in tall glasses with saltine crackers or tostadas, making it a cultural staple during holidays, Lent, and summer fiestas.
Ingredients & Quantity
- ⅓ cup Spanish onion, chopped
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 pound chilled cooked medium shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- 2 roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cucumber, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1½ cups chilled tomato and clam juice cocktail (like Clamato)
- 1 cup chilled ketchup
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (stems discarded, leaves chopped)
- 2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce (such as Valentina or Tabasco)
- 2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and chopped
Optional Additions
- Diced mango or pineapple – for a sweet contrast
- Chopped radishes – for extra crunch
- Minced garlic – for a pungent kick
- A splash of orange juice – to balance the acidity
- Crab or octopus – to enhance the seafood medley
- Chili powder or Tajín – for garnish or added heat
Tips for Success
- Marinate the onions: Soak chopped onion in lime juice for 10–15 minutes to mellow the bite and infuse the citrus flavor.
- Use cold ingredients: Chill all components before mixing to ensure a refreshing final dish.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold in avocado last to prevent it from mashing.
- Let it rest: Allow the flavors to blend by chilling for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Customize the spice: Adjust hot sauce and jalapeño based on your heat preference.
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine chopped Spanish onion and lime juice. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, chopped tomatoes, cucumber, celery, jalapeño, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the tomato and clam juice cocktail and ketchup to the shrimp mixture. Stir to combine.
- Add the marinated onions and lime juice, along with chopped cilantro and hot pepper sauce. Stir gently.
- Just before serving, fold in the chopped avocado to preserve texture.
- Chill the cocktail for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve in individual glasses or bowls, garnished with lime wedges, cilantro, or extra avocado. Pair with saltines, tostadas, or tortilla chips.
Description
This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a bold, cold seafood dish packed with tangy lime, savory tomato-clam juice, spicy jalapeño, and creamy avocado. The textures are perfectly balanced—from the crunch of fresh vegetables to the plump, juicy shrimp. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying, making it ideal for warm days and festive occasions.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, 6 servings total)
- Calories: ~210 kcal
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sugars: ~7g
- Sodium: ~800mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on brands and ingredient ratios.
Conclusion
This family-favorite Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a flavor-packed way to celebrate holidays or simply enjoy a light, nutritious meal. Whether served as a show-stopping appetizer or a quick weeknight dinner, its combination of fresh ingredients and bold seasonings ensures it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Recommendation
Serve chilled with saltine crackers, crispy tostadas, or warm tortilla chips. Complement the dish with a cold cerveza, michelada, or lime agua fresca. For an elegant touch, serve in martini or parfait glasses garnished with a shrimp tail and cilantro sprig.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish is a perfect example of balanced indulgence:
- Lean protein from shrimp
- Healthy fats from avocado
- Hydration and nutrients from cucumber, tomatoes, and citrus
To make it even lighter, reduce ketchup or use low-sodium versions of sauces. Want to boost fiber and vitamins? Add more veggies or swap in spiralized zucchini for some of the shrimp.
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