Shrimp cocktail cups

Shrimp cocktail cups combine succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and crisp lettuce, all dressed in a zesty sour cream blend, making for a refreshing appetizer. This dish is simple to prepare and perfect for any gathering.

24 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

6 oz shrimps
1 avocado
12 lettuce leaves
1/3 cup light sour cream
2 tbsp tomato sauce
1 tsp worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice

Shrimp cocktail cups are a delightful and refreshing appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. Combining succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and crisp lettuce, all topped with a zesty sour cream and tomato sauce blend, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. Here’s how you can make these delicious shrimp cocktail cups at home.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- If not already done, cook and peel the shrimps. Allow them to cool, then chop them into bite-sized pieces if they are large.

2. Prepare the Avocado:
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice the flesh into small cubes.

3. Prepare the Lettuce Cups:
- Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Select 12 leaves that are large enough to hold the shrimp mixture, acting as cups or mini bowls. Set them aside.

4. Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, combine the light sour cream, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the chopped shrimps and diced avocado to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the shrimp and avocado are evenly coated with the dressing.

6. Assemble the Cups:
- Take each lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of the shrimp and avocado mixture into the center.

7. Serve:
- Arrange the shrimp cocktail cups on a serving platter. If desired, garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs (such as cilantro) for an additional touch.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately as a delightful appetizer or light meal.

There you have it – simple yet delicious shrimp cocktail cups that are sure to impress your guests. This recipe combines fresh ingredients with a tangy dressing that enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and avocado. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a light meal, these shrimp cocktail cups are the perfect choice.

Shrimp cocktail cups FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the shrimp for shrimp cocktail cups?

Cook the shrimp until they are pink and opaque, typically about 2-3 minutes per side if boiling or sautéing. Make sure to cool them completely before assembling the cups.

How should I store leftover shrimp cocktail cups?

Store leftover shrimp cocktail cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The lettuce may become wilted, so it's best to store the shrimp mixture separately and assemble fresh cups when ready to serve.

Can I substitute the light sour cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute light sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, dairy-free sour cream can be used for a dairy-free option.

What type of lettuce works best for shrimp cocktail cups?

Butter or Bibb lettuce works well because they are large and have a nice cup shape. Romaine lettuce is also a good choice as it’s sturdy and can hold the filling well.

What’s a good way to enhance the flavor of the shrimp and dressing?

You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also add a nice touch.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure your shrimp is thoroughly cooked before using them in the recipe. Boil or steam them until they turn pink and opaque.

- Fresh avocados are best for this recipe. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure.

- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt and ground black pepper to the sour cream sauce.

- You can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time, but assemble the cups just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant.

- Feel free to customize your shrimp cocktail cups with additional ingredients like diced tomatoes, red onion, or a sprinkle of cilantro for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 100kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 5g
Fiber 2.70g
Sugar 0.76g
Fat 7g

Shrimp cocktail cups