These Shrimp Cocktail Shooters are a fun twist on a classic appetizer! With juicy shrimp and zesty cocktail sauce served in a cute glass, they are perfect for parties.
If you want guests to feel fancy without too much fuss, this is the way to go. Plus, they look great on a table! I love serving them chilled for that fresh ocean taste.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I recommend using medium shrimp for the right bite size. However, you can also use large shrimp if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re perfectly tender.
Cocktail Sauce: Store-bought cocktail sauce is convenient, but making your own can be fun! If you’re short on time, a mix of ketchup and a splash of hot sauce works wonders. For a twist, try adding some mango puree for a fruity flavor!
Celery: This adds crunch and freshness to your shooters. If celery isn’t your thing, finely chopped cucumber or bell pepper would work as great alternatives.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color. You could also use dill, which pairs nicely with seafood. If you’re not into fresh herbs, a sprinkle of paprika can also add visual appeal.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp just right can be a bit tricky, but it’s simple once you know the steps. Here’s how to ensure perfectly tender shrimp every time:
- Use a large pot and bring salted water to a rolling boil.
- Carefully add the shrimp and cook for only 2-3 minutes—good shrimp change from grey to pink pretty quickly.
- Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) right after cooking. This stops the cooking process and keeps the shrimp from getting rubbery.
- Once cooled, drain and pat them dry before assembling your shooters.
Taking these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked shrimp that are juicy and delicious!
How to Make Shrimp Cocktail Shooters
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 1 cup cocktail sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for homemade cocktail sauce)
- 1 tbsp horseradish (optional, for homemade cocktail sauce)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for cocktail sauce)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for cocktail sauce)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion or shallots
- Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for garnish and serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer will take about 20 minutes of preparation time and requires at least 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge before serving. Overall, you should plan for around 50 minutes to have these tasty Shrimp Cocktail Shooters ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Shrimp
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and chill them quickly. After a few minutes in the ice bath, drain the shrimp and pat them dry.
2. Prepare the Cocktail Sauce
If you’re making your cocktail sauce from scratch, grab a small bowl. Combine about 1 cup of ketchup, minced garlic, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and taste—adjust the seasonings to your liking.
3. Assemble the Shooters
Now it’s time to get creative! Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cocktail sauce into the bottom of each shot glass. On top of the cocktail sauce, add a small layer of the finely chopped celery and diced onion or shallots for some crunch. Next, place 2-3 chopped shrimp into each glass. To garnish, hang a whole cooked shrimp over the rim and add a small sprig of parsley or cilantro.
4. Chill and Serve
Cover the assembled shooters with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. When you’re ready to serve, add lemon wedges to each plate. Enjoy your refreshing and fancy Shrimp Cocktail Shooters with friends and family!
This recipe truly shines as a vibrant, zesty appetizer that’s sure to leave a lasting impression at any gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and immerse the bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Do I Make the Cocktail Sauce Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, try mixing in extra horseradish or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cocktail sauce. You can also include finely chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper for an additional kick.
Can I Make These Shooters Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the shrimp cocktail shooters a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just ensure they are covered to maintain freshness!
What Can I Substitute for Celery?
If celery isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with finely chopped cucumber or bell peppers for a similar crunch. Avocado can also add a creamy texture, while keeping it fresh and delicious!
