Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Mediterranean-Style Fresh & Light)
Description
This refreshing shrimp cocktail blends classic Mexican flavors—tomato, lime, cilantro, and avocado—with Mediterranean simplicity and balance. Tender shrimp are tossed in a zesty tomato-citrus sauce, loaded with crisp vegetables, and finished with heart-healthy olive oil. Perfect as an appetizer, light lunch, or summer dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Shrimp
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1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled & deveined
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1 bay leaf (optional)
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½ tsp salt
Cocktail Base
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1 cup tomato juice or low-sodium tomato sauce
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¼ cup ketchup (optional, for classic style)
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¼ cup fresh lime juice
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2 tbsp fresh lemon or orange juice
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1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1–2 tsp hot sauce (to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
Vegetables & Add-ins
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½ cup red onion, finely diced
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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1 cup ripe tomatoes, diced
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½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 avocado, diced
For Serving
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Lime wedges
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Saltine crackers or tostadas
Instructions
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Cook the shrimp
Bring a pot of water to a boil with salt and bay leaf.
Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes until pink.
Drain and immediately chill in ice water. Chop shrimp into bite-size pieces. -
Make the sauce
In a large bowl, whisk tomato juice, ketchup (if using), lime juice, citrus juice, olive oil, hot sauce, and black pepper. -
Combine
Add shrimp, onion, cucumber, tomatoes, and cilantro. Mix gently. -
Chill
Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let flavors blend. -
Finish & serve
Gently fold in avocado just before serving. Serve cold with lime wedges and crackers.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in chilled glasses or bowls
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Enjoy as a light meal or appetizer
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Pair with grilled fish or a fresh salad
Q & A
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes—just thaw and chop. Rinse briefly if salty.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Mild by default. Add more hot sauce or diced jalapeño for heat.
Q: Is this healthy?
A: Yes! High in protein, low in fat, and rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Best within 24 hours. Add avocado only when ready to serve.
Q: Can I make it without ketchup?
A: Absolutely. Use only tomato juice or blended fresh tomatoes for a lighter version.
Q: What makes this Mediterranean-style?
A: Olive oil, fresh citrus balance, and a lighter, fresher sauce compared to heavier versions.
