Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: A medley of fresh ingredients combined with tender shrimp for a bold taste.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just over an hour, including chilling time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level or ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound medium shrimp, raw or cooked
- Kosher salt
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup peeled, diced cucumber
- ½ cup chopped celery
- 1 jalapeno, minced
Directions
- Prep the Shrimp:
- If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and let them cool.
- If using pre-cooked shrimp, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Veggies:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped red onion, cucumber, celery, and minced jalapeno.
- Combine and Chill:
- Add the shrimp to the veggie mix and stir well.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled with avocado slices on top for added creaminess.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Add a Zesty Sauce: Mix in some tomato juice, lime juice, and hot sauce for a more traditional Mexican shrimp cocktail.
- Extra Heat: Include an additional jalapeno or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Seafood Twist: Swap shrimp for a mix of seafood like scallops or crab.
- Crunchy Addition: Add diced bell peppers for extra texture.
- Herbaceous Boost: Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This dish is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and drain them well before using.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best to make it a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld.
3. Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from the jalapeno. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
4. Can I skip the jalapeno?
Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeno or use a milder pepper.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or a side of crusty bread.
6. How do I choose fresh shrimp?
Look for shrimp that are firm, have a mild ocean smell, and are not slimy.
7. Can I add tomatoes?
Yes, diced tomatoes add a delicious layer of flavor.
8. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet.
9. Can I substitute other proteins?
Certainly! Cooked chicken or tofu can be used as substitutes.
10. What’s the best way to dice avocado for serving?
Slice the avocado in half, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and dice it into small cubes.
Conclusion
This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a light meal, its vibrant ingredients and customizable options make it a go-to recipe. Try it today and savor the fresh flavors!
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lavender Lemonade is a fragrant, refreshing twist on classic lemonade. With delicate floral notes and tangy lemon, it’s perfect for summer gatherings, special occasions, or as an everyday refreshment. Easy to make and customizable, this beverage is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 small handful freshly picked and rinsed lavender flowers
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4–5 cups water (adjust based on taste)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized pot, combine lavender flowers and sugar.
- Add 1 cup of water and heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves, creating lavender-infused syrup.
- Let the syrup cool, then strain to remove lavender flowers.
- Mix the lavender syrup with lemon juice and remaining water to your preferred taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator. Serve over ice.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness: Start with half the syrup and add more to taste.
- Variations: Add mint, basil, or fresh strawberries for a twist. Replace water with sparkling water for a fizzy version.
- Storage: Keep lavender syrup and prepared lemonade in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American