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Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Plump poached shrimp are chilled and served with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce for a light, classic appetizer.

⏱ 10 minPrep time
🔥 5 minCook time
🍽 4Servings
🏷 AppetizerCategory
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Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail dates back to the late 19th and early 20th century in the United States, when chilled seafood served with tangy sauces became a symbol of upscale dining. It became a staple of American celebration menus and steakhouse starters by the mid-20th century, prized for its refreshing simplicity.

Cold, tangy, and effortlessly elegant

Plump poached shrimp are chilled and served with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce for a light, classic appetizer.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Bring a pot of water with lemon slices and bay leaf to a boil.
  2. Add the shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
  3. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath.
  4. Whisk together the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and hot sauce for the cocktail sauce.
  5. Chill the shrimp and sauce for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Serve the shrimp with the sauce for dipping.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Don't overcook the shrimp — they finish cooking quickly and turn rubbery if left too long. Adjust horseradish to taste for a milder or spicier sauce.

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Recipe details

Prep10 min
Cook5 min
Servings4
CategoryAppetizer
PublishedAugust 12, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →