Go Back Email Link
–+ servings
shrimp cocktail recipe

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful appetizer, perfect for any gathering. Chilled shrimp are tossed with a vibrant tomato-based sauce, fresh vegetables, and a hint of spice.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes
Rate Pin Share Recipe Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds medium shrimp (cooked, peeled, and deveined) about 20-25 count
  • 1 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1 medium jalapeno pepper seeded and finely diced
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes small diced
  • 0.75 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 large avocado diced, for serving

Sauce Ingredients

  • 32 ounce Clamato juice spicy or regular
  • 0.75 cup ketchup
  • 0.75 cup clam juice
  • 0.25 cup Mexican hot sauce e.g., Valentina or Tapatio
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, or to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced red onion, diced jalapeno, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
  • In a separate bowl or pitcher, whisk together the Clamato juice, ketchup, clam juice, Mexican hot sauce, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, lime juice, or hot sauce depending on your preference.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and for the cocktail to chill thoroughly.
  • Before serving, gently stir in the diced avocado.
  • Serve chilled in individual glasses or bowls, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Saltine crackers or tortilla chips are traditional accompaniments.

Notes

This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is best served very cold. The flavors develop further as it chills, so making it a few hours ahead of time is recommended. Adjust the spice level by using more or less jalapeno and hot sauce.