CLASSIC SHRIMP COCKTAIL

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Classic Shrimp Cocktail image

One of Martha's favorite entertaining strategies is to serve a pared-down-but still special feeling-menu. Her classic shrimp cocktail is a perfect example: it's an easy but elegant starter that shines because it calls for the very best ingredients-including a quick homemade cocktail sauce. When preparing this spread, use high-quality, sustainably sourced shrimp, and plan on about three to six shrimp per guest.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Appetizers

Time 50m

Number Of Ingredients 13

2 pounds large shrimp (16-20 count), peel on
2 large carrots, scrubbed but not peeled, cut into thirds
1 stalk celery with leaves, cut into thirds
4 sprigs thyme
1/2 teaspoon whole peppercorns
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 lemons
3/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 to 3 tablespoons fresh horseradish or prepared horseradish
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, such as Tabasco (optional)

Steps:

  • Shrimp: Cover a rimmed baking sheet with ice (to later cool down shrimp). In a large stockpot combine 12 cups water, carrot, celery, thyme, 1 tablespoon salt, and peppercorns. Cut one lemon in half; squeeze half the juice into the water and add the rind. Cut remaining 1 1/2 lemons into small wedges for serving; set aside.
  • Bring water to a boil. Add shrimp, cover; remove from heat. Let stand until shrimp are bright pink and curled; 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and transfer to prepared tray of ice to cool completely. Once cool, shrimp can be refrigerated in an airtight container up to 2 days.
  • Cocktail Sauce: Meanwhile, whisk together all ingredients until combined. (Cocktail sauce can be made ahead; refrigerate in an airtight container up to 1 week.)
  • To Serve: Peel shrimp, leaving tails intact if desired. Using a paring knife, make a shallow cut along backs of shrimp to remove vein. Arrange shrimp neatly on a platter, shingling them slightly to make a pattern, and serve chilled with cocktail sauce and reserved lemon wedges on the side.

Sainbux Khaskheli
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This shrimp cocktail is delicious! I love the combination of the shrimp and the sauce. It's also very easy to make, which is a bonus.


David Omar
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I made this shrimp cocktail for my family and they loved it! It's a great recipe for a quick and easy appetizer.


Morad Kadri
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This shrimp cocktail is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. It's light and refreshing, yet still satisfying. I highly recommend it.


Randi Shannon
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This shrimp cocktail is a keeper! It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I love that you can make it ahead of time, which makes it perfect for parties.


Ken Ketauganda
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I've never made shrimp cocktail before, but this recipe made it so easy. It turned out great and I will definitely be making it again.


Emmanuel Tankem
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This shrimp cocktail is delicious! The shrimp are cooked perfectly and the sauce is flavorful and tangy. I highly recommend this recipe.


Zachary Hutt
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I made this shrimp cocktail for a party and it was a huge success! Everyone loved it. I will definitely be making it again.


Pandale
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This shrimp cocktail is amazing! I love the combination of the shrimp and the sauce. It's also very easy to make, which is a bonus.


George Boy
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This is the best shrimp cocktail I've ever had! The shrimp are cooked perfectly and the sauce is to die for. I will definitely be making this again and again.


Oyun Dash
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I've made this shrimp cocktail several times now and it's always a hit! My guests love the combination of the sweet shrimp and the tangy sauce. It's also a very elegant dish, so it's perfect for special occasions.


Suhrab Jan
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This shrimp cocktail is a classic for a reason! It's simple to make, yet always impresses. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and the sauce is flavorful and tangy. I love that you can make it ahead of time, which makes it perfect for parties or busy wee