Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

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.