Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with a twist that will make your taste buds dance and your guests go wild! This Slightly Tipsy Shrimp Cocktail isn't just another seafood dish - it's a flavor explosion that combines the succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp with a vodka-spiked cocktail sauce that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Perfect for sophisticated dinner parties, summer gatherings, or when you simply want to add a little excitement to your culinary repertoire.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp horseradish
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the shrimp. Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and cooking.
- Season the shrimp generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and become slightly curled, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Remove the cooked shrimp from the heat and transfer to a bowl. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes at room temperature.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine vodka, ketchup, horseradish, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-integrated cocktail sauce.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to balance the flavors.
- Chill the cooked shrimp and the vodka cocktail sauce in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing temperature.
- To serve, arrange the chilled shrimp on a platter or in individual cocktail glasses, and generously pour the vodka cocktail sauce over them.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and additional fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Slightly Tipsy Shrimp Cocktail as a sophisticated appetizer or light meal.
Tips
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
- Don't overcook the shrimp - they should be pink and slightly curled, which typically takes just 2-3 minutes per side.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider using cold-water shrimp which tend to be sweeter and more tender.
- Chill your serving glasses or platter beforehand for an extra refreshing presentation.
- Adjust the vodka and horseradish quantities to match your personal taste preference.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor in your cocktail sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving to maintain its bright green color and fresh taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 180mg
