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Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Tangy Sauce

A plate of chilled, cooked shrimp arranged around a small glass bowl of deep red shrimp cocktail sauce.

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Prepare an elegant, chilled shrimp appetizer featuring perfectly poached shrimp served with a zesty, homemade cocktail sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup prepared horseradish, drained
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, and lemon halves. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
  2. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 4 minutes, until pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  3. Immediately drain the shrimp and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the chilled shrimp and pat them dry. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  5. To make the sauce, whisk together the ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce in a small bowl.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Chill the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Arrange the chilled shrimp around the rim of a glass or bowl filled with the cocktail sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the best presentation, thread the shrimp onto small skewers or use large martini glasses.
  • You can prepare the shrimp and sauce up to one day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator.
  • Use freshly grated horseradish for a sharper flavor in your sauce.

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