shrimp cocktail recipe
Craving a classic appetizer that’s both elegant and refreshingly simple? Shrimp cocktail is a timeless favorite, perfect for parties, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sophistication.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Poaching Liquid
- 2 whole lemons
- 1 ½ tablespoons pickling spice
- 1 to 1 ½ pounds extra colossal shrimp, deveined but unpeeled
Instructions
- Slice 2 whole lemons in half. Squeeze the juice into a large pot of water, then add the squeezed lemon halves to the pot.
- Add 1 ½ tablespoons of pickling spice and a generous pinch of salt to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, allowing the flavors to infuse for a few minutes.
- Add 1 to 1 ½ pounds of extra colossal, deveined, unpeeled shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are firm, pink, and cooked through.
- Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool completely.
- Once cooled, drain the shrimp and peel them, leaving the tails on for presentation.
- Arrange the shrimp on a platter, optionally over ice, and serve with cocktail sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
- If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate the shrimp until ready to use.