Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

🇲🇽 Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones)
This classic Mexican shrimp cocktail is a chilled, vibrant dish that balances savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. Packed with juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and bold tomato-clam juice, it’s a refreshing appetizer—or even a light meal—that everyone will love. Traditionally served in a glass, it’s festive and flavorful enough to become a family favorite.

🛒 Ingredients
⅓ cup Spanish onion, chopped

¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice

1 pound cooked medium shrimp, chilled (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)

2 roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped

1 cucumber, finely chopped

1 stalk celery, finely chopped

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

2 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons ground black pepper

1½ cups chilled tomato and clam juice cocktail (like Clamato)

1 cup chilled ketchup

1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems discarded and leaves chopped

2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce (like Valentina or Tapatío)

2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and chopped

👨‍🍳 Directions
1. Marinate the Onion
In a large bowl, combine the chopped Spanish onion with the lime juice. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to soften the onion and infuse it with tangy flavor.

2. Build the Base
Add the shrimp, tomatoes, cucumber, celery, and jalapeño to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.

3. Add the Liquids
Pour in the tomato-clam juice and ketchup. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Flavor Boost
Stir in the chopped cilantro and hot pepper sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

5. Add Avocado Last
Gently fold in the chopped avocado just before serving to keep it from getting mushy.

6. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour for best flavor. Serve cold in chilled glasses or small bowls.

🌟 Tips & Notes
Make it ahead: The cocktail (without avocado) can be made a few hours ahead. Add avocado right before serving.

Spice level: Adjust the jalapeño and hot sauce to suit your taste.

Serving idea: Serve with saltine crackers or tortilla chips for an authentic touch.

Shrimp shortcut: Use pre-cooked shrimp from the seafood section to save time.

🥑 Why You’ll Love It
Super refreshing and perfect for warm weather

Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies

Loved by both seafood fans and those who like bold flavors

Festive enough for special occasions, simple enough for everyday