Shrimp Cocktail Salad: 

Shrimp Cocktail Salad is a delicious and refreshing seafood dish that combines plump, juicy shrimp with a zesty cocktail sauce and a medley of crisp, colorful vegetables. This recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the sea and the garden in a single, satisfying bite. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, light lunch, or a refreshing summer dinner, this salad is a seafood lover’s dream come true.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced for garnish

For the Cocktail Sauce:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce, to taste (optional)

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, arugula, or your choice)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
3. Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place lemon slices on top for added flavor.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 6-8 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough.

Step 2: Make the Cocktail Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish sauce, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust the level of heat according to your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large serving platter or individual salad bowls, arrange the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Place the cooked shrimp on top of the salad.

Step 4: Serve Your Shrimp Cocktail Salad

1. Drizzle the cocktail sauce over the shrimp and salad.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve your Shrimp Cocktail Salad immediately, with extra cocktail sauce on the side.

 

Shrimp Cocktail Salad is a delightful combination of succulent shrimp, zesty cocktail sauce, and crisp, vibrant vegetables. This dish is both refreshing and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a light, seafood-packed meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or a complete salad, this recipe celebrates the flavors of the sea and the garden in every bite.