Hearty Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones)

This refreshing shrimp cocktail with a hearty, veggie-packed twist! Seasonal vegetables straight from the farmers market—crisp cucumbers, sweet heirloom tomatoes, tender zucchini, and fresh cilantro. Tossed in a zesty Clamato-tomato base with lime-marinated shrimp and a touch of heat, it’s the perfect chilled dish for warm days. Top with avocado and a drizzle of olive oil for a bright, flavorful summer bite.

6 to 8 servings, depending on portion size.

Refreshing Shrimp Cocktail served elegantly in glasses, topped with fresh avocado cubes and crunchy croutons, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or light summer meal.

Ingredients

• 1 to 2 lbs cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into ½-inch pieces

• 1 cup finely diced red onion

• Juice of 2 limes

• 5 cups Clamato juice

• 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes

• 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 Tbsp horseradish

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar

• 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)

• 3 cups cucumber, chopped

• 1½ cups zucchini, chopped

• 1½ cups tomatoes, chopped (heirloom recommended)

• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

• Olive oil, for drizzling

• Avocados, diced (for topping)

• Croutons (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp and Onion

Place the chopped, cooked shrimp in one bowl and the finely diced red onion in another. Squeeze the juice of 1½ limes over the shrimp and ½ lime over the onions. Let them sit for about 20 minutes. This step helps brighten the shrimp and mellows the onion’s sharp bite, but you can skip it if you're short on time.

Step 2: Make the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Clamato juice, tomato puree or crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and red wine vinegar. Stir well to blend the flavors into a zesty, savory base.

Step 3: Add the Veggies and Shrimp

A vibrant display of diced vegetables and fruits is ready for transformation into a refreshing, colorful shrimp cocktail. Fresh herbs and tomatoes add depth to this chilled summertime dish.

Step 4: Adjust the Texture (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend about half of the chopped vegetables with a few cups of the tomato mixture, then stir it back into the bowl. This gives the dish a heartier, slightly creamy texture.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the shrimp cocktail into bowls or glasses. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil, top with diced avocado, and add a handful of croutons if you like a bit of crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy a refreshing, veggie-packed dish bursting with summer flavor. Enjoy!

Tips

• Serve cold for the best refreshing flavor.

• This recipe makes a great light lunch or starter.

• Add hot sauce or a dash of Tajín for extra zing.