OMG Don’t Lose This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe!

OMG Don’t Lose This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe!

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bold, refreshing, and absolutely irresistible, look no further than Mexican Shrimp Cocktail — or Cóctel de Camarones as it’s known south of the border. This vibrant and zesty recipe is a beloved favorite for good reason: it’s a beautiful marriage of chilled shrimp, crisp veggies, a tangy-spicy tomato sauce, and loads of fresh flavor. Whether you’re throwing a summer cookout, a game-day party, or just craving something light and satisfying, this recipe delivers every time.

And trust us: OMG, don’t lose this recipe — it’s that good.

---

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is kind of like a cross between shrimp ceviche and a Bloody Mary — but even better. It’s got:

Plump, juicy shrimp

Crunchy cucumber and celery

A kick of heat from jalapeño

A zesty, savory tomato base

Fresh herbs and citrus to tie it all together

Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, perfect for entertaining, and incredibly refreshing on a hot day. Serve it in cocktail glasses, small bowls, or even tall mugs — no matter how you dish it up, it’ll be a crowd favorite.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 pound medium shrimp, raw or cooked

Kosher salt, to taste

1 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced

½ cup celery, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)

(And this is just the start! You’ll likely want to add some classic cocktail sauce elements like tomatoes, ketchup, lime juice, and cilantro — more on that below.)

---

Prep Tips Before You Start

If using raw shrimp, boil them briefly in salted water until pink and opaque — this only takes a few minutes. Then, chill them in an ice bath to stop the cooking. If you’re using precooked shrimp, skip the boiling and go straight to chopping.

Dice your veggies nice and small so you get a little bit of everything in each bite. This also helps the flavors meld beautifully.

---

How to Make the Best Mexican Shrimp Cocktail:

1. Cook and chill the shrimp (if raw). Once cooked, chop into bite-sized pieces if desired.
2. In a large bowl, combine the red onion, cucumber, celery, and jalapeño.
3. Add the chopped shrimp and stir gently to combine.
4. Season with kosher salt to taste.
5. (Optional but recommended) Add a cocktail-style sauce made from:

1 to 1½ cups of tomato juice or Clamato

¼ cup ketchup

Juice of 2 limes

A handful of chopped cilantro

A dash of hot sauce (like Valentina or Cholula)

Freshly ground black pepper

6. Mix well and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
7. Serve cold, garnished with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges. Tortilla chips on the side? Yes, please!

---

How to Serve

Traditional Mexican shrimp cocktail is often served in tall glasses or goblets with a spoon. You can also offer it in shot glasses as party appetizers or over a bed of shredded lettuce for a lighter entrée-style option.

Pair it with a crisp Mexican beer, a refreshing agua fresca, or go all out and serve it with a Michelada — because you’re worth it.

---

Pro Tips & Variations

Want more crunch? Add diced radishes or green bell pepper.

Like it spicy? Add another jalapeño or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.

Making ahead? Prep everything and stir in the tomato-lime mixture just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

Low-carb option? Skip the ketchup and use more fresh tomato juice or make a pico-style version.

---

Final Thoughts

Once you try this OMG-worthy Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, you’ll wonder where it’s been your whole life. It’s the kind of recipe that’s too good to forget, too easy not to make again, and too tasty not to share. So don’t lose it — print it, pin it, save it, and make it on repeat.