🍤 Zesty Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Diabetic-Friendly, Mediterranean-Style)
🌿 Description
This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a light, refreshing dish featuring tender shrimp tossed in a tangy tomato-lime sauce with crisp vegetables, herbs, and avocado. The Mediterranean approach focuses on olive oil, lean protein, fresh produce, and low-glycemic ingredients, making it ideal for people managing blood sugar while still enjoying bold, vibrant flavors.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Shrimp
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450 g (1 lb) raw shrimp, peeled & deveined
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1 bay leaf
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1 garlic clove, smashed
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Juice of ½ lime
For the Cocktail Base
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1½ cups fresh tomatoes, finely chopped (or no-salt canned, drained)
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½ cup cucumber, diced
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¼ cup red onion, finely diced
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1 small jalapeño, minced (optional)
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½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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Juice of 2 limes
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional, small amount)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
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1 small avocado, diced
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¼ cup celery, finely chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
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Cook the Shrimp
Bring water to a boil with bay leaf and garlic.
Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes, until pink and opaque.
Drain and immediately cool in ice water. Chop shrimp into bite-size pieces. -
Prepare the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. -
Season
Add lime juice, olive oil, optional orange juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well. -
Combine
Fold in shrimp and avocado (if using). Chill for 20–30 minutes for best flavor. -
Serve
Spoon into small bowls or glasses and garnish with herbs.
🫒 Mediterranean + Diabetic Benefits
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High protein, very low carbs
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No added sugar or ketchup
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Olive oil supports heart health
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Fiber-rich vegetables slow glucose spikes
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Naturally gluten-free
❓ Q & A
Q: Why no ketchup like traditional Mexican shrimp cocktail?
Ketchup contains added sugars. This version uses fresh tomatoes and citrus for flavor without blood-sugar spikes.
Q: Is the orange juice safe for diabetics?
Yes, in small amounts. You can omit it completely or replace with extra lime juice.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It tastes even better after chilling. Add avocado just before serving.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Q: What can I serve it with?
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Lettuce cups
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Whole-grain crackers (small portion)
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Alongside grilled vegetables or a leafy salad
🌞 Serving Tips
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Serve in martini glasses or small bowls for a festive look
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Add extra jalapeño or chili flakes for heat
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Drizzle a little extra olive oil before serving for richness
