Abalone Cocktail
A chilled seafood cocktail combining tender abalone, flavorful vegetables, and a tangy tomato base, perfect for elegant gatherings or appetizer courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Let stand overnight in the refrigerator.
- Serve cold with fancy crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the abalone with shrimp or crab for a different seafood flavor. If you're sensitive to spice, adjust the number of jalapenos or omit them entirely. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the depth of flavor. Make sure to use sharp Cheddar cheese for a more robust taste that complements the other ingredients well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the abalone cocktail in small bowls or cups for individual servings. It pairs wonderfully with fancy crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a complete appetizer spread, consider serving it alongside Grama Ethel's Parmesan Cheese Rounds. This dish is perfect for gatherings, as it offers a unique flavor that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider serving the cocktail chilled rather than at room temperature. To refresh the flavors before serving, give it a gentle stir and taste; you might want to add a little more V-8 juice or catsup if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Abalone Cocktail contains roughly 673 calories, with 57g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (591% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (114% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1263mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cocktail vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the abalone and replacing it with diced cucumbers or artichoke hearts. This will still provide a nice texture while keeping the dish fresh and light.
How can I enhance the flavor of the V-8 juice?
To enhance the flavor of the V-8 juice, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This will add brightness and a bit of acidity that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Is it necessary to let the cocktail sit overnight?
Allowing the cocktail to sit overnight is recommended as it helps the flavors meld together, creating a more cohesive taste. However, if you're short on time, letting it sit for at least an hour can still yield a delicious result.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).