Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsPesto's Italian Kitchen & Wine BarClassic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Classic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Jumbo Shrimp | House Cocktail Sauce | Avocado | EVOO

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Shrimp

Cocktail Sauce

Method

Preparing the Shrimp

  1. 1

    Boil the Shrimp

    In a large pot, add 4 cups of water, the halved lemon, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Cook the Shrimp

    Once boiling, add the jumbo shrimp to the pot. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Do not overcook.

  3. 3

    Cool the Shrimp

    Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked shrimp to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for about 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Drain and Chill

    Drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Making the Cocktail Sauce

  1. 5

    Combine Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.

  2. 6

    Season the Sauce

    Add salt to taste, mixing well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Assembling the Dish

  1. 7

    Prepare the Plate

    On a serving platter, arrange the chilled shrimp in a circular pattern.

  2. 8

    Add Avocado

    Place sliced avocado in between the shrimp for garnish.

  3. 9

    Drizzle with EVOO

    Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the shrimp and avocado before serving.

  4. 10

    Serve with Sauce

    Serve the shrimp cocktail with the homemade cocktail sauce on the side for dipping.

More from Pesto's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar