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This image shows a beautifully presented Mexican shrimp cocktail in a round white bowl, filled with plump shrimp, diced tomatoes, creamy avocado, and fresh chopped cilantro, with a half-cut lemon on the side.

Shrimp Cocktail Recipe Mexican Recipe

A refreshing and vibrant Mexican shrimp cocktail, this recipe combines plump shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a tangy tomato-clam juice dressing with a touch of heat. Fresh cilantro and creamy avocado add richness, while a hint of lime brightens every bite. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 people
Calories 410 kcal

Equipment

  • 3 Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Spoon for mixing

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp hot pepper sauce
  • ⅓ cup Spanish onion, chopped
  • 2 roma tomatoes, chopped
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2 avocados - peeled, pitted, and chopped
  • 1 cup chilled ketchup
  • 2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
  • 1 lb chilled cooked medium shrimp
  • 1 cucumber, finely chopped
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1½ cups chilled tomato and clam juice cocktail
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and finely chopped

Instructions
 

  • Thinly slice the onion and mix it with lime juice in a small bowl, letting it sit for ten minutes to soften.
    This image shows a bowl with finely chopped onions being mixed, preparing the flavorful onion base for the shrimp cocktail.
  • In a medium bowl, combine cooked shrimp, diced roma tomatoes, chopped cucumber, finely sliced celery, minced jalapeño, salt, and black pepper, tossing to distribute evenly.
    This image shows a large mixing bowl filled with shrimp, tomatoes, and other fresh vegetables being combined for a vibrant and refreshing dish.
  • Then pour the dressing over the shrimp mixture and gently stir until fully coated.
    This image shows a smooth, flavorful dressing being poured over the shrimp cocktail mixture, enhancing its bright and zesty taste.
  • Carefully fold in diced avocado, followed by the onion mixture.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving chilled.
    This image shows a smooth, flavorful dressing being poured over the shrimp cocktail mixture, enhancing its bright and zesty taste.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, grill or sauté the shrimp briefly before mixing.
  • Use a serrated knife to cut tomatoes cleanly without crushing them.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the jalapeño or hot sauce.
  • Serve with saltine crackers or tostadas for an authentic Mexican touch.