Cozy Up with This Simple mexican shrimp cocktail

Why You’ll Love mexican shrimp cocktail

There’s something undeniably refreshing about a chilled bowl of mexican shrimp cocktail on a warm day. This vibrant dish, also known as coctel de camarones, brings together the bold flavors of Mexico with the lightness of seafood. It’s not just a starter—it’s a celebration in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, prepping for Cinco de Mayo, or just craving something zesty and satisfying, this recipe delivers.

What makes this dish stand out is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. You get the tender bite of shrimp, the creamy richness of avocado, the crunch of cucumber, and the tangy kick from lime and hot sauce. It’s like a spicy shrimp cocktail Mexican style, but with a heartier, salsa-like twist that makes it feel more like a meal than an appetizer.

And if you’re looking for more festive ideas, check out these healthy Mexican options for Cinco de Mayo to round out your menu.

Ingredients to make shrimp cocktail mexicano

To make this delicious shrimp cocktail mexicano, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce, pantry staples, and of course, shrimp. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
• 1 tbsp salt, for boiling water
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber, peeled and seeded
• 1/2 cup diced avocado (about 1 small avocado)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeño, seeds removed (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup tomato juice (like Clamato or V8)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Valentina or Tapatío), plus more to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tortilla chips or saltine crackers, for serving

Time needed to make mexican style shrimp cocktail

Making mexican style shrimp cocktail is quick and easy. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

While it chills, you can prep other dishes like this Mexican street corn kale salad to complete your meal.

Quick Steps to Make spicy shrimp cocktail mexican

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking, then drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado, cilantro, and jalapeño. Stir gently to mix.

Step 3

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4

Add the chopped shrimp to the vegetable mixture and pour the sauce over everything. Stir gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are covered.

Step 5

Cover and chill the cocktail in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 6

Give the shrimp cocktail a final stir, taste again and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or hot sauce if needed.

Step 7

Serve cold with tortilla chips or saltine crackers on the side for scooping.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice and ripe avocados. If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the jalapeño or use a milder pepper. Want it spicier? Add more hot sauce or a dash of cayenne. You can also swap Clamato for V8 if you prefer a thicker base. Leftovers can be stored for a day, but the avocado may brown slightly—add a splash of lime to help preserve it.

Is shrimp coctel mexican style healthy and nutritious ?

Absolutely! Shrimp coctel Mexican style is a light, protein-rich dish that fits well into many healthy eating plans. Shrimp is low in calories and high in lean protein, making it a great option for those watching their weight or looking to increase protein intake.

Each serving (about 1 cup) contains roughly:

• Calories: 180–220
• Protein: 20–25g
• Fat: 6–8g (mostly from avocado)
• Carbs: 10–12g

It’s also rich in vitamins like B12 and minerals like selenium and zinc. The avocado adds heart-healthy fats, while the veggies contribute fiber and antioxidants. If you’re looking for more nutrient-packed meals, try this Mexican sweet potato chicken soup or explore our cottage cheese recipes for high-protein ideas.

For more shrimp-based inspiration, check out this shrimp stir fry or this garlic shrimp recipe that’s equally nutritious and flavorful.

Can I make coctel de camarones healthier and still delicious?

Yes, you can make coctel de camarones even healthier with a few smart swaps. First, reduce the ketchup or use a low-sugar version to cut back on added sugars. You can also skip the hot sauce if you’re watching sodium, or use a low-sodium variety.

For a lighter version, increase the cucumber and tomato ratio to bulk up the volume without adding calories. Want to go low-carb? Serve it with cucumber slices instead of crackers. If you’re gluten-sensitive, stick to gluten-free tortilla chips or lettuce cups.

Pair it with this healthy Mexican layer dip or a refreshing pineapple salsa for a well-rounded, guilt-free spread.

For more inspiration, explore these easy Mediterranean recipes or dive into some Greek-inspired dishes that focus on fresh, whole ingredients.

How to Serve mexican shrimp cocktail?

Mexican shrimp cocktail is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Traditionally, it’s served chilled in a glass or bowl with tortilla chips or saltine crackers on the side. But you can get creative!

Try spooning it into lettuce cups for a low-carb option, or serve it over a bed of greens for a shrimp cocktail salad. It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats like this Mexican grilled chicken or pulled pork tacos with mango salsa.

For drinks, a light cocktail like this guilt-free piña colada or something from our skinny cocktails collection makes a perfect match.

Avoid These Mistakes

Even a simple dish like shrimp cocktail mexicano can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the shrimp: This makes them rubbery. Stick to 2–3 minutes and use an ice bath immediately.
• Using unripe avocados: They won’t mash well and can taste bitter. Choose ripe but firm avocados.
• Skipping the chill time: The flavors need time to meld. Don’t rush it!
• Too much ketchup: It can overpower the freshness. Balance is key.

For more tips on avoiding kitchen mishaps, check out this healthy Thanksgiving desserts guide or explore mango jicama slaw for a crunchy side that never fails.

Also, learn from these flavorful recipes like creamy garlic shrimp or easy grilled shrimp to master your seafood game.

The best way to store leftover mexican shrimp cocktail

Leftovers of mexican shrimp cocktail can be stored safely, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 24 hours for best flavor and texture. The avocado may brown slightly, but a squeeze of lime can help slow that down.

Do not freeze this dish—the texture of the shrimp and avocado will suffer. If you plan to make it ahead, consider adding the avocado just before serving.

Looking for more make-ahead ideas? Try this healthy dessert roundup or explore protein-packed cottage cheese recipes.

For more seafood storage tips, check out this shrimp stir fry or these restaurant-style black beans that pair well with shrimp dishes.

Ready to give mexican shrimp cocktail a try?

Now that you’ve seen how easy and flavorful mexican shrimp cocktail can be, it’s time to bring it to your table. With its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and quick prep, it’s a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe never disappoints.

Don’t forget to explore more festive dishes like our Cinco de Mayo menu ideas, try a low-calorie cocktail, or pair it with a crunchy salad or tangy slaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp as they can become rubbery when reheated.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients themselves are gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free chips or crackers if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and veggies ahead, but mix everything together no more than a few hours before serving to keep it fresh.

What’s the best hot sauce to use?

Valentina and Tapatío are classic choices, but feel free to use your favorite. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Can I add other seafood?

Absolutely! Add cooked crab, scallops, or even octopus for a seafood medley twist.

You May Also Love

• Healthy Mexican Options for Cinco de Mayo
• Skinny Cocktails
• Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad
• Mexican Sweet Potato Chicken Soup
• Healthy Mexican Layer Dip
• Pineapple Salsa
• Mango Jicama Slaw