Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer, fitting for any occasion. With just a few key ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create an elegant and versatile dish perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to formal dinner parties.
Choose Your Shrimp
Gulf Shrimp: Known for their sweet, succulent flavor and firm texture, Gulf shrimp are a favorite and staple for shrimp cocktails. Our gulf shrimp are wild-caught in the Gulf of Mexico and hand-processed in Biloxi, Mississippi: a perfect choice for a classic shrimp cocktail recipe. We offer peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off), EZ peel (shell-on), and headless (shell-on) gulf shrimp options.
Tiger Shrimp: With their striking appearance and bold flavor, tiger shrimp are a choice that’ll be equally popular. These extra-large shrimp boast a robust taste and a firm, meaty texture that holds up well to cocktail sauce. Our tiger shrimp come pre-peeled and deveined with the tails-on, which you’ll have to remove if you prefer tail-off shrimp.
Oishii White Shrimp: Oishii white shrimp, also known for their delicious taste and texture, are a fantastic choice for a shrimp cocktail. These massive shrimp are prized for their delicate, sweet flavor, making them a delightful addition to any seafood dish. They’re the largest shrimp we sell, and come shell and tail-on; the shell will need to be removed for shrimp cocktail, while the tail is up to personal preference.
Hot or Cold?
One question that often arises when preparing shrimp cocktails is whether to serve the shrimp hot or cold. Both options have their merits, so the choice comes down to personal preference and the occasion.
Cold shrimp cocktail is the classic presentation. Chilled shrimp pairs perfectly with the cool, tangy cocktail sauce, creating a refreshing appetizer that's perfect for warm-weather gatherings or elegant cocktail parties. To serve cold shrimp, simply cook them ahead of time, then chill them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
On the other hand, serving hot shrimp can add a unique twist to this traditional dish. Warm shrimp can be served straight from the stove or oven, adding a comforting element to the appetizer. This option is great for cozy dinner parties or during the colder months when guests are craving something a bit heartier.
Tail-On or Tail-Off?
Another decision to make when preparing shrimp cocktail is whether to serve the shrimp with the tails-on or off. While this may seem like a minor detail, it can actually have a significant impact on the presentation and eating experience.
Leaving the tails on can add an elegant touch to the dish, creating a visually stunning presentation that's sure to impress your guests. Additionally, the tails provide a convenient handle for picking up the shrimp, making them easier to dip into the cocktail sauce.
However, serving shrimp with the tails off can make for a more convenient and fuss-free dining experience. Guests won't have to worry about removing the tails themselves, allowing them to focus on enjoying the delicious flavors without any distractions.
Ultimately, whether you choose to serve your shrimp cocktail with the tails-on or tails-off, our robust shrimp collection has you covered.
Cocktail Sauce Recipe
Now that you’ve selected your shrimp, it’s time for the cocktail sauce! Our cocktail sauce recipe is simple and quick and uses ingredients you probably already have in your refrigerator.
What You'll Need
1/2 cup of ketchup
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
Your favorite hot sauce, to taste
Instructions
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl, chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve, then dig in!
With both a simple recipe and elegant presentation, shrimp cocktail is a dish that's sure to impress without being a hassle to prepare. So, why not whip up a batch for your next gathering and see for yourself just how delicious it can be?