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Ingredients
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Shrimp
Cocktail sauce
Garnish / Serving
Method
Shrimp
Cook shrimp
When the liquid reaches a rolling boil, reduce heat to maintain a gentle boil. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Return to a boil; cook until shrimp are opaque and just firm, about 2 to 3 minutes for large shrimp. Do not overcook.
Shock shrimp
Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with 4 cups ice and cold water. Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked shrimp immediately into the ice bath to stop cooking. Chill for 5 minutes until shrimp are completely cool.
Dry and chill
Drain shrimp well and pat dry with paper towels. Cover and refrigerate shrimp until serving to keep cold.
Cocktail sauce
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup ketchup, 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon hot sauce if using. Stir until smooth.
Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika if using. Taste and adjust horseradish (spiciness), lemon (brightness), or salt as desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Garnish / Serving
Serve immediately while shrimp remain cold. Provide extra lemon wedges and additional horseradish or hot sauce on the side if guests want more heat.