Name: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup tomato juice; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco); 1/2 cup diced cucumber; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 avocado, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla chips, for serving; Lime wedges, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail offers a balanced blend of spicy, tangy, and fresh flavors. It’s vibrant and light but still satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, makes a great make‑ahead appetizer or meal, and pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

large shrimp, peeled and deveined
tomato juice
ketchup
freshly squeezed lime juice
hot sauce
diced cucumber
diced red onion
chopped fresh cilantro
diced avocado
salt and pepper
tortilla chips, for serving
lime wedges, for garnish

Directions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and cool them quickly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, and hot sauce until smooth and well combined.
Chop the cooled shrimp into bite‑sized pieces and add them to the tomato mixture.
Stir in the diced cucumber, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently mix to combine.
Carefully fold in the diced avocado, taking care not to mash it.
Season the cocktail with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld and deepen.
Serve the chilled shrimp cocktail with lime wedges and tortilla chips for scooping.

Servings and timing

Serves about 4 to 6 people.
Active prep time: approximately 15 minutes.
Chilling time: at least 30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover shrimp cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the avocado can brown and soften over time, it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Stir gently before serving again. This dish is not meant to be reheated; it’s best served chilled.

FAQs

What size shrimp should I use for this cocktail?

Large shrimp work best because they hold their texture after cooking and chill nicely in the cocktail mix.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead and chill it, but add the avocado just before serving if you want it to stay fresh looking.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mildly to moderately spicy depending on the hot sauce you use. You can adjust the heat by changing the amount or type of hot sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp that has been fully thawed works fine. Be sure to drain and pat the shrimp dry before cooking.

What can I serve this with?

This cocktail goes well with tortilla chips, saltine crackers, or even over a bed of lettuce as a chilled salad.

Can I add other vegetables or fruit?

Absolutely. Some people enjoy adding diced mango, pineapple, or jalapeño for extra sweetness or heat.

Is this recipe gluten‑free?

Yes, the cocktail itself is gluten‑free. Make sure your hot sauce and tomato juice don’t contain any gluten‑based additives if that’s a concern.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Overcooking can make them tough, so watch closely.

Can I substitute lime juice with lemon juice?

You can, but lime juice gives the more traditional citrus flavor for a Mexican shrimp cocktail.

What if I don’t like ketchup?

You can replace the ketchup with more tomato juice or a mild tomato salsa if you prefer a less sweet base.

Conclusion

This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is an easy, vibrant dish that brings fresh flavors together in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or making a light dinner, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. Simple to prepare, easy to customize, and full of bold taste, it’s a crowd‑pleaser every time.