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Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Easy Shrimp Cocktail

This shrimp cocktail recipe is delicious and easy to make. Of course, you can make it for a family dinner but it really shines as an appetizer for parties.

Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Active Time 3 minutes
Cooling Time 3 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 59 kcal
Author Frederick Schramm

Ingredients

  • 1 lb raw shrimp (16-20 peeled and deveined shrimp, tail on)
  • 10 black peppercorns
  • 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp kosher salt (to taste)
  • ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Begin making your shrimp cocktail by preparing an ice and water bath in a medium-size bowl ahead of time.

  2. If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp.

  3. In a medium-sized pot add 1-quart water, peppercorns, Old Bay, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to a low boil and boil for a couple of minutes.

  4. Remove from heat, add the shrimp, cover, and cook until firm and opaque. Only takes about 3-4 minutes. Do not overcook them!

  5. Remove shrimp and place in the ice/water bath to stop the cooking.

  6. Serve your shrimp cocktail with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce.

Notes

If you prefer to cook and serve your shrimp with the shell on, then do that.