For the Cocktail:
1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (small to medium size)
1 cup tomato juice or Clamato (adjust to taste)
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Valentina or Cholula)
1 medium tomato, diced
1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
½ small red onion, finely diced
1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
Tortilla chips or saltine crackers
Lime wedges
Additional hot sauce for garnish (optional)
InstructionsInstructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp aren’t cooked, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cocktail Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the tomato juice (or Clamato), ketchup, lime juice, and hot sauce. Adjust the tomato juice for your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Shrimp
Add the cooked shrimp, diced tomato, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro to the bowl. Gently toss to coat everything in the sauce.