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+ servings
A shrimp dipped in a glass bowl of cocktail sauce.
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Easy Shrimp Cocktail

A quick, easy and delicious make-ahead appetizer that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 6 cups water
  • 1 small lemon thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 5 black peppercorns
  • 3 to 4 sprigs fresh Italian parsley
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 pound medium to large shrimp peeled and deveined (tails left on)
  • Cocktail sauce for serving

Instructions

  • Pour water in a dutch oven or large saucepan. Add lemon slices, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, parsley and kosher salt. Heat over medium high heat to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to mingle.
  • Add shrimp and cook for 2 ½ to 3 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked. Remove from heat and place shrimp in a colander. Rinse under cold water.
  • Refrigerate shrimp until cold and serve with cocktail sauce.