Spicy adobo shrimp cocktail

Spicy Adobo Shrimp Cocktail combines succulent shrimp with fresh vegetables and a tangy, zesty adobo sauce, making it a refreshing appetizer. This light dish is ideal for summer gatherings or as a starter for any meal.

10 Feb 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 cucumber
1 stalk celery
1 garlic clove
1 avocado
3 tbsp onion
1 tomato
12 oz shrimps
3 tbsp lime juice
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp coriander leaves

Spicy Adobo Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and zesty appetizer that brings together succulent shrimp with a medley of fresh vegetables and a spicy, tangy adobo sauce. It's perfect for summer gatherings or as a light starter for any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel the cucumber and dice it into small cubes.
- Chop the celery into small pieces.
- Mince the garlic.
- Dice the avocado and onion.
- Chop the tomato into small cubes.
- Finely chop the coriander leaves.

2. Cook the Shrimp:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the pot and place them in an ice bath to cool rapidly.
- Once cooled, drain the shrimp and set them aside.

3. Prepare the Cocktail Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, ketchup, and water.
- Mix until well blended.

4. Assemble the Cocktail:
- Add the diced cucumber, celery, garlic, avocado, onion, and tomato into the bowl with the cocktail sauce.
- Gently mix until all the ingredients are well coated.

5. Add the Shrimp:
- Fold in the cooked shrimp.
- Make sure the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

6. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves on top of the shrimp cocktail.
- Serve immediately in individual cocktail glasses or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve with tortilla chips or crackers if desired.

Your Spicy Adobo Shrimp Cocktail is now ready to be served! The combination of fresh vegetables, zesty lime, and spicy adobo flavor will surely impress your guests. Enjoy this delightful dish as a refreshing appetizer or a light, flavorful snack.

Spicy adobo shrimp cocktail FAQ:

What is the best way to tell when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. This typically takes 2-3 minutes in boiling water. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so watch them closely.

How long can I store leftover shrimp cocktail in the fridge?

Leftover shrimp cocktail can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best flavor and texture, consume it within that timeframe.

Can I substitute lime juice with another type of citrus juice?

Yes, you can substitute lime juice with lemon juice or even orange juice. However, note that this may alter the flavor profile slightly, making it sweeter or less tangy.

What can I use instead of ketchup in the cocktail sauce?

You can use tomato sauce or a mix of tomato paste with a bit of sugar and vinegar as a substitute for ketchup. This will create a similar base for the sauce.

What size pot should I use to boil the shrimp?

A medium-sized pot is sufficient for boiling shrimp. Ensure it has enough capacity to comfortably hold the shrimp while allowing them to cook evenly without overcrowding.

Tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

- Chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

- Adjust the spiciness of the adobo sauce according to your taste preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of adobo used.

- Allow the shrimp cocktail to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

- Serve the shrimp cocktail in chilled glasses or over a bed of lettuce for an elegant presentation.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 14g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 4.41g
Sugar 6g
Fat 8g

Spicy adobo shrimp cocktail