Mamaw'S Shrimp Cocktail

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Mamaw's Shrimp Cocktail offers a tangy, savory blend of shrimp, ketchup, lemon juice, and finely chopped vegetables, perfect as a chilled appetizer for gatherings or casual entertaining.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cans deveined shrimp
  • 2 bottles catsup
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 6 celery stalks, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together and chill thoroughly before serving.
  2. If the shrimp are medium or larger, they should be cut up some.
  3. Note that this is already mixed when served, and not used with the shrimp dipped into the sauce.

Tips & Substitutions

For a fresher flavor, consider using fresh shrimp instead of canned, but ensure they're fully cooked and chilled. You can substitute the bell pepper with diced cucumber for added crunch or omit it altogether if desired. Adjust the lemon juice to taste for acidity, or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. This dish can also be enhanced with herbs like dill or parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the shrimp cocktail in individual bowls or a large platter for a communal experience. It's perfect alongside a Chilled Cucumber Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider pairing with crusty bread or crackers to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is an excellent appetizer for gatherings or can be the star of a seafood buffet.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, avoid freezing the shrimp cocktail as it may change the texture. When ready to serve again, simply stir and check the seasoning, adding more lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce if needed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mamaw'S Shrimp Cocktail contains roughly 262 calories, with 9g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (291% of the Daily Value), iron (89% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

262 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.3g 19% DV
Total Fat 1.8g 2% DV
Carbs 60.5g 22% DV
Fiber 4.2g 15% DV
Sugar 10.7g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 417.3mg 18% DV
Potassium 1851.7mg 39% DV
Cholesterol 37.8mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 331.9mcg 37% DV
Vitamin C 262.1mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 160.6mg 12% DV
Iron 16mg 89% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Shellfish

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 use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before mixing. It's important to ensure they are cooked prior to adding them to the cocktail for the best texture and flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce directly into the mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before serving. You could also mix in finely chopped jalapeños for an extra kick, which complements the shrimp well.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

To lighten the dish, you can reduce the amount of catsup used and replace it with a homemade tomato sauce or reduce-sugar ketchup. You can also add more vegetables, such as diced avocado or additional celery, to increase the nutritional value and bulk of the dish.

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).

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