Shrimp cocktail, or prawn cocktail, is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. The star of the show is the succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and chilled, served with a tangy cocktail dipping sauce. While shrimp cocktail is delicious on its own, it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply craving an appetizer, the perfect pairings for cold shrimp will elevate your seafood spread to the next level.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Discover delicious ideas for serving cold shrimp
- Explore flavorful combinations for cold shrimp
- Learn about tasty options for serving cold shrimp
- Get inspired by creative dishes to serve with cold shrimp
- Find recommended serving suggestions for cold shrimp
Best Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
To start, it’s important to have a delicious shrimp cocktail recipe. Whether you’re using fresh or precooked shrimp, the key is to cook them just until they’re done and then chill them quickly in an ice bath. For the cocktail sauce, you can make a homemade version with ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try a Mexican shrimp cocktail by adding taco seasoning or chili powder to the water and garnishing with tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro. Don’t forget to serve the shrimp cocktail in individual cups or on a bed of lettuce for a beautiful presentation.
For a detailed recipe, refer to the table below:
Ingredients | Instructions |
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1 pound of shrimp (fresh or precooked) | 1. Cook the shrimp in boiling water until they turn pink and opaque, typically 2-3 minutes for fresh shrimp and just until heated through for precooked shrimp. |
Ice bath (a large bowl filled with ice and water) | 2. Transfer the cooked shrimp to the ice bath to cool and stop the cooking process. Let them sit in the ice bath for a few minutes, then drain. |
1/2 cup ketchup | 3. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce to make the cocktail sauce. |
2 tablespoons horseradish | 4. Taste and adjust the flavors according to your preference, adding more horseradish or hot sauce for extra heat. |
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce | 5. If you want to make a Mexican shrimp cocktail, add taco seasoning or chili powder to the boiling water before cooking the shrimp and garnish with tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro. |
1 tablespoon lemon juice | 6. Serve the chilled shrimp with the homemade cocktail sauce in individual cups or on a bed of lettuce. |
Hot sauce to taste |
Try this easy and versatile shrimp cocktail recipe for your next gathering or as a delicious appetizer. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests craving for more!
Mama’s Potato Salad
One classic side dish that pairs perfectly with cold shrimp is Mama’s Potato Salad. This Southern recipe features creamy potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, mayo, and a touch of mustard. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds substance and flavor to your shrimp cocktail spread. Make it ahead of time to let the flavors meld together for an even more delicious dish.
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Enjoy Mama’s Potato Salad as a delicious side dish to complement your cold shrimp and elevate your shrimp cocktail experience. This classic recipe is a perfect choice for family gatherings, picnics, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a flavorful Southern dish.
Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Looking for a crunchy slaw recipe to accompany your shrimp cocktail? Try this easy and refreshing Broccoli Slaw Recipe. Made with fresh broccoli and shredded carrots, this colorful salad will add a delightful pop of freshness and texture to your meal. With its tangy dressing, it’s the perfect refreshing side dish to complement the succulent shrimp. Plus, it’s a healthy option that will leave you feeling satisfied.
To make the Broccoli Slaw, start by slicing fresh broccoli into thin strips and shredding some carrots. Combine the vegetables in a bowl and toss them together.
Next, prepare the tangy dressing by whisking together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the broccoli and carrot mixture, ensuring it coats the vegetables evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly. This will enhance the texture and taste of the slaw.
When it’s time to serve, give the slaw a good toss to evenly distribute the dressing. Enjoy its refreshing and crunchy goodness alongside your cold shrimp cocktail for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
For more easy salad recipes and healthy options, check out our Creamy Coleslaw and Easy Corn Salad recipes in this article. These refreshing side dishes will elevate your shrimp cocktail experience to new heights.
Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies
If you’re looking for a flavorful and savory side dish to serve with cold shrimp, try Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies. These crispy little bites are made with cornbread mix, buttermilk, and seasonings. They’re the perfect accompaniment to a shrimp cocktail, adding a touch of Southern flair and making your meal extra delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Jiffy cornbread mix
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeno (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix, buttermilk, diced onion, diced bell pepper, diced jalapeno (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well combined.
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cornbread mixture into the hot oil.
- Fry the hush puppies until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Remove the hush puppies from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies warm as a delicious and savory side dish with your cold shrimp.
“These Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies are the perfect combination of crispy texture and Southern flavors. They add a delightful touch to any seafood spread, making them a must-try for shrimp cocktail lovers.” – Chef Maria Sanchez
Creamy Coleslaw
When it comes to delicious side dishes, coleslaw is a classic that never disappoints. Its cool and refreshing crunch, combined with the tangy dressing, makes it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including cold shrimp. This tangy side dish is a classic accompaniment that adds the perfect balance of flavors and textures to your shrimp cocktail spread.
Coleslaw is traditionally made with crunchy cabbage and a creamy dressing. The crispness of the cabbage complements the succulent shrimp, while the tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor that enhances the zesty cocktail sauce. The combination of the two is a match made in heaven, creating a delightful blend of tastes with every bite.
To make a batch of creamy coleslaw, start by shredding fresh cabbage into thin strips. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or onions for added crunch and flavor. Then, prepare the dressing by combining mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of mustard. Toss the cabbage and dressing together until well-coated, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Your creamy coleslaw is now ready to be served alongside your shrimp cocktail. Not only does it provide a satisfying crunch and tangy taste, but it also adds a pop of color to your plate, making it visually appealing as well. The coleslaw acts as a refreshing and textural contrast to the succulent shrimp, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Next time you serve cold shrimp, don’t forget to include a bowl of creamy coleslaw as a classic and tasty side dish. Its crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing will elevate your seafood spread and leave your guests wanting more. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that this timeless accompaniment brings to your shrimp cocktail experience.
Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes
Add some Tex-Mex flair to your shrimp cocktail meal with Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes. This flavorful side dish features roasted potatoes seasoned with ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The spices add a kick of heat and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cold shrimp. It’s a tasty and creative option that will impress your guests.
Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes Recipe
Add a zesty kick to your dinner with this easy Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes recipe. The combination of Mexican-inspired flavors and crispy potatoes makes it a perfect side dish for your shrimp cocktail. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, combine 1 pound of baby potatoes (halved), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Toss well to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
These Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes are the perfect spicy side dish to accompany your shrimp cocktail. The bold flavors of ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and paprika enhance the taste of the potatoes and complement the Mexican-inspired flavors of the shrimp cocktail. Serve them hot alongside your cold shrimp for a flavorful combination that will leave your guests craving for more.
Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad
If you enjoy tangy flavors with your pasta, try the Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad. This colorful side dish is bursting with Italian-inspired flavors that perfectly complement your cold shrimp. Made with rotini pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and savory olives, this salad offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The tangy vinaigrette dressing adds a zesty kick to the dish, making it a vibrant and refreshing addition to your seafood spread.
For a complete visual appeal, serve the Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together for a truly satisfying experience.
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Easy Corn Salad
Add a burst of freshness and vibrant flavors to your shrimp cocktail meal with this Easy Corn Salad. Made with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, and bell peppers, this salad is a versatile and delicious option that will please everyone at the table. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the various textures, creates a delightful summer side dish that pairs perfectly with cold shrimp. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a light lunch, this salad is a must-try.
Easy Corn Salad Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to help you whip up this delicious corn salad:
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups of sweet corn kernels
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of diced red onion
- 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- In a large bowl, combine the sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and cilantro. Mix well.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
With its sweet and tangy flavors, this corn salad adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to your summer shrimp cocktail spread. It’s also a versatile option that can be customized to suit your taste. Feel free to add additional ingredients like avocado, cucumber, or even black beans for extra flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a refreshing salad to enjoy on its own, this Easy Corn Salad is a perfect choice.
Chickpea Salad
If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious side dish to serve with cold shrimp, try a Chickpea Salad. This green salad features chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette dressing. The combination of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors adds a refreshing and satisfying element to your shrimp cocktail meal. It’s a great option for those looking for a protein-packed alternative to traditional side dishes.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarian or vegan diets. They are also high in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. The addition of crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes provides a burst of freshness, while the creamy feta cheese adds a tangy and savory note.
The Mediterranean flavors in this salad are derived from the lemon vinaigrette dressing. The zesty citrus brightens up the dish and complements the earthy taste of chickpeas and the crisp vegetables. The combination of flavors creates a harmonious balance that will satisfy your taste buds.
To prepare this vibrant Chickpea Salad, simply toss together the ingredients in a large bowl and drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette dressing. You can adjust the amounts of each ingredient according to your preference, whether you prefer a more substantial salad with extra chickpeas or a lighter version with more vegetables.
Chickpea Salad Recipe:
Ingredients | Instructions |
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This Chickpea Salad not only complements the flavors of cold shrimp but also provides a vibrant and nutritious addition to your meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish with other seafood or enjoyed as a light lunch on its own.
Greek Olive and Feta Salad
Another flavorful salad to pair with shrimp cocktail is Greek Olive and Feta Salad. This salad combines a variety of ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy dressing. The briny flavors and creamy cheese complement the shrimp and add a vibrant Mediterranean touch to your meal. Serve it alongside your shrimp cocktail for a burst of flavor and texture.
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestion:
This Greek Olive and Feta Salad is perfect for serving as a Mediterranean side dish. It pairs beautifully with shrimp cocktail, adding briny flavors and creamy cheese to your meal. Serve it in a large salad bowl or individual plates, garnished with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy!
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to serving cold shrimp, the options are endless. From classic potato salad to refreshing pasta salads and flavorful Mexican-inspired sides, there’s a perfect pairing for every taste. Experiment with different flavors and textures to create a memorable seafood spread. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, these side dishes will take your cold shrimp experience to the next level. Enjoy!
FAQ
What are some delicious ideas for serving cold shrimp?
Some delicious ideas for serving cold shrimp include pairing them with classic sides like Mama’s Potato Salad, coleslaw, or Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies. You can also try refreshing options like Broccoli Slaw, Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad, or Greek Olive and Feta Salad. Other tasty choices include Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes, Easy Corn Salad, and Chickpea Salad.
What is the best shrimp cocktail recipe?
The best shrimp cocktail recipe involves cooking the shrimp until they are done and then chilling them in an ice bath. For the cocktail sauce, you can make a homemade version with ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. You can also try a Mexican shrimp cocktail variation with taco seasoning or chili powder and garnish it with tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro.
How do I make Mama’s Potato Salad?
To make Mama’s Potato Salad, you will need cooked and cubed potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, mayo, mustard, and seasonings. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
What is a good side dish to serve with cold shrimp for a light and refreshing option?
Broccoli Slaw is a great side dish to serve with cold shrimp for a light and refreshing option. It is made with fresh broccoli, shredded carrots, and a tangy dressing, adding a pop of freshness and texture to your shrimp cocktail meal.
What are Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies?
Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies are crispy little bites made with cornbread mix, buttermilk, and seasonings. They are the perfect accompaniment to a shrimp cocktail, adding a touch of Southern flair and making your meal extra delicious.
What is a classic side dish that goes well with cold shrimp?
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that goes well with cold shrimp. The cool and refreshing crunch of the cabbage paired with the tangy dressing is the perfect complement to the succulent shrimp and zesty cocktail sauce.
How do I make Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes?
To make Tex-Mex Ranch Potatoes, you will need roasted potatoes seasoned with ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The spices add a kick of heat and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cold shrimp.
What is a flavorful salad to pair with shrimp cocktail?
Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad is a flavorful salad to pair with shrimp cocktail. It features rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The combination of flavors and textures adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your shrimp cocktail meal.
How do I make Easy Corn Salad?
To make Easy Corn Salad, you will need sweet corn, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and a tangy dressing. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and serve chilled for a refreshing and flavorful combination with your shrimp cocktail.
What is a healthy side dish to serve with cold shrimp?
A healthy side dish to serve with cold shrimp is Chickpea Salad. It features chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette dressing. The combination of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors adds a refreshing and satisfying element to your shrimp cocktail meal.
What is Greek Olive and Feta Salad?
Greek Olive and Feta Salad is a salad that combines cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy dressing. The briny flavors and creamy cheese complement the shrimp and add a vibrant Mediterranean touch to your meal.
Source Links
- https://southernhomeexpress.com/what-goes-with-shrimp-cocktail/
- https://thehappierhomemaker.com/what-to-serve-with-shrimp-cocktail/
- https://www.corriecooks.com/what-to-serve-with-shrimp-cocktail/
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