Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Garlic Sauce is an elegant and refreshing appetizer that never goes out of style. Juicy, tender shrimp are perfectly cooked and chilled, then served with a zesty lemon-garlic dipping sauce that adds the perfect balance of brightness and depth.

This dish is simple, classic, and sophisticated — making it a star attraction at any dinner party, festive celebration, or seafood feast. It’s light, protein-rich, and bursting with flavor from fresh ingredients.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s pure elegance in simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels indulgent and restaurant-quality.

The shrimp are tender and succulent, and when paired with a tangy, garlicky lemon sauce — it’s perfection.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because:

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes and feels gourmet.
• It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor.
• It’s a classic party favorite — loved by everyone.
• It’s healthy yet luxurious, combining freshness with a hint of indulgence.
• It’s versatile — perfect for holiday dinners, summer cookouts, or romantic meals.

Once you taste the balance of sweet shrimp and zesty lemon garlic sauce, you’ll understand why it’s an all-time favorite appetizer around the world.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings

Serves 4 people

Calories

Approximately 180 calories per serving

Cuisine

American / Continental

Course

Appetizer / Starter

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation)
• 4 cups water
• ½ lemon, sliced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black peppercorns
• 1 clove garlic, crushed

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 clove garlic, minced finely
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce for spice.)

For Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley or dill

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Boil shrimp with aromatics until pink and just cooked.
2. Chill the shrimp in ice water.
3. Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl.
4. Serve chilled shrimp with lemon garlic dipping sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a large pot, combine water, lemon slices, bay leaf, salt, peppercorns, and crushed garlic.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer shrimp immediately into a bowl of ice water to stop cooking.
5. Let them chill for 5–10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Shrimp Cocktail

1. Arrange chilled shrimp on a platter or in individual cocktail glasses.
2. Add a small bowl of lemon garlic sauce in the center for dipping.
3. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

How to Serve

Serve this Shrimp Cocktail chilled for the best flavor and presentation.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve in martini glasses with the shrimp hanging over the rim for a restaurant-style look.
• On a chilled seafood platter with ice underneath for freshness.
• With crackers or fresh cucumber slices on the side for a light appetizer.

It pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left too long.
• Chill properly: Icing the shrimp immediately keeps them juicy and firm.
• Use fresh garlic: It enhances the sauce’s flavor without overpowering it.
• For extra zest: Add a small dash of Tabasco or horseradish to the sauce.
• Make-ahead: Both shrimp and sauce can be prepared up to 1 day in advance.

Variations

1. Classic Cocktail Sauce: Replace lemon garlic sauce with a mix of ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Avocado Cream Sauce: Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cilantro for a creamy twist.
3. Garlic Butter Shrimp Cocktail: Toss shrimp lightly in garlic butter before chilling.
4. Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger to the dipping sauce.
5. Spicy Cajun Shrimp Cocktail: Season shrimp with Cajun spices before boiling for a flavorful kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration:
  Store cooked shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers.
  • Shrimp: up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
  • Sauce: up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing:
  • Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Sauce is not suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise base.
• Make-Ahead Tip:
  Cook shrimp the day before and chill overnight. Prepare sauce in advance for easy assembly before guests arrive.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling shrimp)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Ice bath bowl
• Serving platter or cocktail glasses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely before cooking, rinse well, and pat dry. Frozen shrimp work beautifully when fresh isn’t available.

Q2: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
They turn pink and opaque and form a gentle “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly into an “O” and feel tough.

Q3: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, if you’re short on time. Just rinse and chill before serving with the sauce.

Q4: Is this dish served hot or cold?
Traditionally, shrimp cocktail is served chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Q5: Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add cayenne, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the lemon garlic dip.

Conclusion

Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Garlic Sauce is the definition of timeless sophistication. It’s elegant yet effortless, fresh yet full-bodied, and light yet deeply satisfying. The harmony of tender shrimp and tangy lemon-garlic sauce makes every bite refreshing and irresistible.