Name: Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: PT-491535H29M33S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: ⅓ cup Spanish onion, chopped; ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 1 pound chilled cooked medium shrimp – peeled, deveined, and tails removed; 2 roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped; 1 cucumber, finely chopped; 1 stalk celery, finely chopped; 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 teaspoons ground black pepper; 1 ½ cups chilled tomato and clam juice cocktail (such as Clamato®); 1 cup chilled ketchup (such as Heinz®); 1 bunch fresh cilantro – stems discarded and leaves chopped; 2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce (such as Valentina®); 2 avocados – peeled, pitted, and chopped

If you’re craving a refreshing and zesty treat that wonderfully captures the vibrant flavors of the coast, this Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe is absolutely the way to go. It’s a bright, tangy, and slightly spicy dish that comes together with chilled shrimp, fresh veggies, and a luscious tomato-clam juice base, perfect for savoring on a warm day. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply cool off with a family favorite, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to picks for something light, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows multiple clear glass bowls and a small glass pitcher arranged on a white marbled surface. The bowls contain different chopped ingredients: one with light green avocado chunks, one with peeled shrimp, one with bright red diced tomatoes, one with green leafy herbs, one with finely chopped pale green cucumber, one with minced green chili, one with small diced white onions, one with red ketchup, one with green celery, and one with a small serving of black and white pepper mix. The small pitcher holds a reddish juice, and there is also a tiny bowl with light yellow lemon juice and a tiny bowl with dark red hot sauce. All items are neatly spaced and visible from above, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with the right ingredients is key for making an irresistible Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the crisp crunch of fresh vegetables to the subtle heat of jalapeno and hot sauce, all balanced with citrusy lime and creamy avocado for a texture and flavor symphony.

Spanish onion: Finely chopped to add a sweet yet sharp bite that brightens the cocktail.
Freshly squeezed lime juice: Adds essential acidity and freshness, perfectly marrying all flavors together.
Chilled cooked medium shrimp: The star protein, peeled and deveined for easy eating and refreshing taste.
Roma (plum) tomatoes: Chopped for a juicy texture and vibrant color splash.
Cucumber: Finely chopped to impart crispness and cooling effect against the spice.
Celery stalk: Offers subtle crunch and savory undertone that complements the other veggies.
Jalapeno pepper: Seeded and chopped finely to provide mild heat without overpowering.
Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance and balance flavors.
Tomato and clam juice cocktail (such as Clamato®): Chilled for a rich, tangy base with a hint of ocean freshness.
Ketchup (such as Heinz®): Adds a slightly sweet tomato depth that rounds out the cocktail flavor.
Fresh cilantro: Leaves chopped to infuse aromatic herbal brightness customary in Mexican cuisine.
Hot pepper sauce (such as Valentina®): Brings that authentic Mexican kick everyone loves.
Avocados: Peeled, pitted, and chopped for creamy texture and a mellow, buttery finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onion-Lime Mixture

Start by mixing the chopped Spanish onion with freshly squeezed lime juice in a small bowl. Letting this blend stand for about 10 minutes softens the onion’s bite and infuses it with citrusy brightness that will lighten the entire dish.

Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Shrimp

While the onion and lime do their magic, toss the peeled, deveined shrimp with chopped roma tomatoes, cucumber, celery, jalapeno, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This combination creates a refreshing medley of flavors and textures that defines the salad’s character.

Step 3: Make the Flavorful Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chilled tomato and clam juice cocktail, ketchup, fresh cilantro, and hot pepper sauce. This mixture serves as the deliciously tangy, savory dressing that ties everything perfectly together, providing the distinctive taste you expect from an authentic cocktail.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Gently fold the creamy avocado chunks into the shrimp and vegetable mixture, then stir in the onion-lime blend. Cover this vibrant mixture and refrigerate it for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld into the refreshing, well-chilled cocktail that tastes better the longer it rests.

How to Serve Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe

A clear round bowl filled with a shrimp ceviche mixture is placed on a white marbled surface. The dish has three visible layers: the bottom is a red tomato-based sauce, the middle layer has light pink cooked shrimp evenly spread, and the top layer is a mix of green avocado chunks, red tomato pieces, small white onion bits, and green herbs scattered across. The shrimp and vegetables show a fresh, moist texture with shiny highlights. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A generous topping of extra hot pepper sauce and freshly sliced avocados can elevate your shrimp cocktail, adding creaminess and a punch of heat that’s just perfect when serving. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top adds a lovely herbal aroma and brightness that invites each bite.

Side Dishes

This cocktail traditionally pairs wonderfully with crunchy saltine crackers on the side, adding a delightful contrast in texture and an easy way to scoop up the shrimp and veggies. Alternatively, simple tortilla chips or tostadas can provide an authentic Mexican vibe and extra crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, serve this shrimp cocktail layered in clear glasses or small mason jars, showcasing its vibrant colors. You can also turn it into individual salad cups for parties, garnished with cilantro sprigs and lime wedges for a festive touch that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but to keep best texture, add avocado fresh each time before serving if possible.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and avocado, freezing this shrimp cocktail isn’t recommended as it can alter the texture and overall freshness once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or well-chilled after a short period in the fridge.

Reheating

This dish is meant to be served cold, so reheating is not necessary or advised. Simply give leftover shrimp cocktail a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and enjoy right from the fridge for maximum flavor and refreshment.

FAQs

Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?

For convenience, cooked shrimp that is chilled works best, but if you prefer using raw shrimp, make sure to cook them briefly by boiling or steaming until pink and opaque, then chill completely before mixing into the cocktail.

Is there a substitute for clamato juice?

If you don’t have clamato juice on hand, a mixture of tomato juice with a splash of clam broth or even a bit of Worcestershire sauce can mimic the flavor. Just adjust seasoning to maintain that signature taste.

How spicy is this shrimp cocktail?

The heat level is mild to moderate due to the jalapeno and hot sauce; however, you can easily adjust it up or down by adding more or less hot pepper sauce depending on your spice preference.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! This shrimp cocktail tastes even better after chilling for an hour or two, so prepare it in advance to let all the flavors mingle beautifully before serving.

What kind of hot sauce is best for this recipe?

Traditional Mexican hot sauces like Valentina® work wonderfully here, providing authentic flavor and a balanced heat, but feel free to use your favorite brand or style for a personal twist.

Final Thoughts

Ready to brighten your day with a dish that literally bursts with freshness and boldness? The Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant Mexican flavors that brings family and friends together. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself craving this cool, tangy, and spicy classic again and again all season long.

Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones estilo Mexicano) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need