Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

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This easy, Mexican shrimp cocktail recipe is the best ever and so flavorful. Bright citrus, tender shrimp, tangy red onions, juicy tomatoes, and avocados are combined for the most wonderful fresh flavors.

easy shrimp cocktail served in glasses with lime and cilantro

shrimp cocktails are perfect for whenever you are wanting something light but filling. Enjoy this shrimp recipe all by itself with a spoon or with your favorite crispy chips–there is no right way to enjoy this Mexican-style recipe.

It’s the best I’ve ever had plus it’s filled with the brightest, freshest, and most simple ingredients. The citrus coats the shrimp and makes it extra yummy with its tender flavors and textures.

Recipe Summary

Quick and flavorful: The cooked shrimp and other ingredients are just lightly tossed in a bowl or glass until combined. That’s it! The bright flavors of cilantro and lime shine through this recipe.
Filled with protein: Shrimp is rich in protein so you can feel good knowing you will get a serving of protein in this shrimp cocktail recipe.
Easy and foolproof: It is almost impossible to get this recipe wrong! Just combine everything and serve–it’s that easy.
Perfect for any occasion: Enjoy this easy shrimp cocktail for any type of special or casual occasion such as Cinco de Mayo, birthdays, family dinners, etc.

shrimp cocktail in glass with lime, cilantro, avocado, red onion

Ingredients needed

Cooked shrimp–Peeled and cooked shrimp is what you will need for this cocktail recipe. You can buy pre-cooked shrimp from the grocery store or lightly poach your own shrimp at home.
Red onion– Minced red onion provides layers of deliciously fresh flavors in this shrimp recipe.
Tomatoes–Juicy red tomatoes are a must for this shrimp cocktail. Make sure you pick ripe tomatoes because they are more flavorful.
Avocado–Soft cubes of avocado are dispersed throughout the cocktail and give it extra texture and smooth flavors.
Cilantro–Leafy green cilantro is minced and sprinkled throughout the shrimp cocktail recipe so it remains fresh and flavorful.
Lime
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

How to Make Shrimp Cocktail

First, chop and prepare all of the veggies and ingredients. Prepare the cooked shrimp.

After that, place the peeled shrimp, minced red onion, diced tomatoes, cubed avocado, minced cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper into a bowl. Lightly mix everything with a spoon until combined.

Serve the shrimp cocktail in individual glasses with chips or enjoy it on its own.

Tips from my kitchen

You can buy cocktail shrimp from the grocery store if you do not want to lightly cook the shrimp at home.
Feel free to add diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The longer the cocktail sits, the more flavorful it gets.
If storing it in the fridge, you may want to wait to add the avocado until just before serving.

Mexican shrimp cocktail recipe in glass with lime and cilantro

More shrimp recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Mexican shrimp cocktail made out of?

Traditionally, a Mexican shrimp cocktail is served with an array of fresh veggies alongside a rich tomato broth-like sauce seasoned with pepper, hot sauce, tomato juice, etc.

What is the difference between ceviche and shrimp cocktails?

Shrimp cocktail uses cooked shrimp whereas shrimp ceviche starts with raw seafood.

How far ahead can you make shrimp for shrimp cocktail?

You can refrigerate the shrimp for up to 12 hours prior to using it in a shrimp cocktail.

How do you thaw frozen shrimp for cocktails?

The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is in the refrigerator for eight to 10 hours. Be sure to rinse the shrimp after it has thawed.