Shrimp Cocktail Sauce is the perfect zesty, tangy accompaniment to fresh, chilled shrimp. Its bold flavors come from a mix of classic ingredients, with the spicy kick of horseradish balanced by the sweetness of ketchup and the acidity of fresh lemon juice. This quick and easy sauce is a crowd-pleaser at parties and seafood feasts alike. Whether you’re serving shrimp as an appetizer or a light main dish, this cocktail sauce adds just the right amount of zing to elevate your seafood.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the level of horseradish or lemon juice to your preference.
- Optional: For a spicier version, stir in hot sauce a few drops at a time until it reaches the desired heat level.
- Chill the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve with chilled, cooked shrimp. Garnish with a lemon wedge for added presentation.
This shrimp cocktail sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient and flavorful addition to any seafood platter.
