Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, or “Coctel de Camarones,” is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines plump shrimp with a tangy tomato-based sauce, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, offering a balance of zesty, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors that make it a favorite in Mexican cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing and Flavorful – The combination of citrusy, spicy, and savory elements makes each bite vibrant and satisfying.
Easy to Make – With minimal cooking required, this recipe comes together quickly.
Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with protein, vitamins, and fresh ingredients, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
Perfect for Gatherings – A great dish to serve at parties, barbecues, or any festive occasion.
Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or add extra ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Tomato juice or Clamato
Ketchup
Fresh lime juice
Hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
Worcestershire sauce
Red onion, finely chopped
Cucumber, diced
Roma tomatoes, diced
Jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Avocado, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Crackers or tortilla chips for serving

Directions

Cook the Shrimp – Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces if desired.
Prepare the Sauce – In a large bowl, mix tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
Combine Ingredients – Add the cooked shrimp, red onion, cucumber, tomatoes, jalapeño, and cilantro to the sauce. Mix thoroughly.
Chill and Serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado.
Garnish and Enjoy – Serve cold with crackers, tortilla chips, or tostadas. Add extra lime juice or hot sauce as desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Extra Spicy – Add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Seafood Mix – Include octopus or scallops for a seafood cocktail twist.
Creamy Texture – Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or mayonnaise for a richer flavor.
Fruit Twist – Add diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
Low-Carb Option – Serve over shredded lettuce instead of with crackers or chips.

Storage/Reheating

Storage – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Avoid Freezing – The fresh vegetables and avocado do not freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating – This dish is meant to be served cold, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, then immediately transfer to an ice bath.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and chilled before mixing with the other ingredients.

What can I substitute for Clamato?

Use a mix of tomato juice and a bit of seafood broth for a similar flavor.

Is Mexican Shrimp Cocktail spicy?

It can be as mild or spicy as you like by adjusting the jalapeños and hot sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld.

What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Medium to large shrimp work best, either fresh or frozen and thawed.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or celery can add extra crunch.

How do I keep avocado from browning?

Toss the avocado in a bit of lime juice before adding it to the cocktail.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve in chilled glasses or bowls with a side of crackers or tortilla chips.

Is this similar to ceviche?

It has a similar texture but is different because the shrimp are pre-cooked rather than “cooked” in lime juice.

Conclusion

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for warm weather, parties, or as a light meal. With a zesty tomato base, crisp vegetables, and tender shrimp, this dish is both satisfying and versatile. Try it for your next gathering, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!