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Appetizers

Prawn cocktail

⏱ 20 min🍳 3 min👤 2 pp★★☆☆☆

Here is a classic starter with an absolutely superlative appearance, perfect for any important occasion or party but also for a Christmas meal, perhaps as part of one traditionally involving fish. Easy to make, ready in just a few minutes, it involves just a few ingredients: prawns, a few leaves of lettuce and a cocktail sauce (the recipe for cocktail sauce can be found elsewhere in our site). The flavour of the cocktail sauce, delicate and enveloping, is combined with the sweetness of the prawns. This starter is great for a lunch or dinner party, but also as part of a savoury buffet, and will be enjoyed by everyone, including children! In addition, a prawn cocktail lends itself to various decorative modes of presentation, either in single-serving cups or trays. Try making this classic appetizer with us following the photo gallery. It’s easier than it looks! One piece of advice: look out for the basic recipe for cocktail sauce elsewhere in our website!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 95 kcal / serving
Protein
8g
Carbohydrates
12g
Fat
1.5g
Fiber
0.5g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Total time
3 minutes Active time
Serves 2 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Prepare the cocktail sauce following our basic recipe. Shell the prawns keeping just the part attached to the tail; blanch in boiling water for a maximum of one or two minutes. Place the sliced up lettuce leaves at the bottom of a glass serving bowl. Place two tablespoons of the cocktail sauce in the centre of the lettuce. Arrange around the rim of the bowl some cooled prawns.

Tips
Always buy fresh prawns for your cocktail. A good, fresh prawn will be shiny, unblemished, firm, and have a delicate and non-pungent aroma. If you are not sure of their freshness, use frozen ones. Another tip: before you eat your prawn cocktail let it rest for at least half an hour in the fridge, and if you don’t have time to make the cocktail sauce you can buy some ready-made at the supermarket. Finally, remember that the cocktail sauce must be creamy and thick, not runny.
Trivia
Prawns are low in fat and are suitable for diets if you remember not to complement them with overly rich dressings. Furthermore, they are rich in vitamin B and iodine, are easily digested and don’t contain gluten, so they are also suitable for those suffering from coeliac disease.

Step by step

Prawn cocktail
Prawn cocktail
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Cocktail Sauce

An excellent variation of the classic shrimp cocktail is one that uses a homemade cocktail sauce. To make it, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This combination not only enhances the flavor of the shrimp but also adds a fresh and lively note to the dish. By using fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can customize the sauce to your taste, making the cocktail even more delicious. Serving the shrimp cocktail with the homemade sauce not only impresses guests but also offers a healthier option compared to pre-made versions. Try pairing it with slices of avocado or tomatoes for an extra touch.

Abruzzo-Style Shrimp Cocktail with Fresh Ingredients

In Abruzzo, shrimp cocktail is often prepared with fresh local seafood. The shrimp, known for their sweet and delicate flavor, are paired with a sauce made from tomato and lemon, creating a dish that reflects the culinary tradition of the region. Adding a pinch of black pepper and chopped fresh parsley can further enhance the taste of this appetizer. The preparation remains simple, but the final result is a dish that celebrates the freshness of the sea, ideal for serving on special occasions or during a summer lunch. Don't forget to present it in elegant cups for added sophistication.

Light Shrimp Cocktail with Greek Yogurt

For a lighter version of shrimp cocktail, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This alternative not only reduces calories but also adds a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp. To prepare this variant, mix Greek yogurt with a bit of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and lemon juice. You can also enrich the sauce with fresh herbs like dill or basil for an aromatic touch. Serving the shrimp cocktail this way will allow you to enjoy a light and refreshing dish, perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.

Benefits of Shrimp Cocktail: Nutritional Properties and Calories

Shrimp are a food rich in protein and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. A serving of shrimp cocktail, prepared with fresh and light ingredients, can contain about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sauce used. Additionally, shrimp are a source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and selenium, which contribute to overall well-being. Choosing to include this dish in your diet is a way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious appetizer.

How to Store Shrimp Cocktail? Can I Freeze It?

Shrimp cocktail is best consumed fresh, but if necessary, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It is important to place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption. However, it is not advisable to freeze shrimp cocktail, as the shrimp may lose their texture and flavor once thawed. If you have prepared a large amount of cocktail sauce, you can store it separately in the refrigerator for a few days. This way, you can prepare a new fresh shrimp cocktail as needed, using already cooked and chilled shrimp.