Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail

Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail Recipe - Refreshing and Delicious

| Servings: 24

Introduction

Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and elegant dish that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the savory flavor of shrimp. This dish is perfect for a summer gathering or as an appetizer for a special occasion.

History

The combination of shrimp and strawberries may seem unusual, but it actually dates back to the 1960s when it became popular in California. This dish was created as a way to showcase the fresh produce and seafood that the state is known for.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) or 8 oz (3 cups) of mayonnaise
1 lb (454 g) or 8 oz (3 cups) of sour cream
2 oz (57 g) or 0.75 cup of sliced green onions
2 tbsp of mustard
1.5 tsp of tarragon
5 lb (2.27 kg) or 200 cooked and peeled medium shrimp
6 lb (2.72 kg) or 6 qt (5.68 liters) of fresh whole California strawberries

How to prepare

1. In a bowl, combine 0.25 cup of mayonnaise, sour cream, green onions, mustard, and tarragon. Refrigerate the mixture. 2. For each serving, spoon 0.25 cup of the sauce into a small bowl. Arrange 3 oz (85 g) (approximately 8) shrimp and 4 oz (113 g) (1 cup) strawberries in a cocktail coupe with the dipping sauce in the center. This recipe yields 24 servings.

Variations

Substitute the shrimp with crab meat for a different flavor.
Add diced avocado to the sauce mixture for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

- Be sure to properly cook and peel the shrimp before assembling the cocktail.

- Refrigerate the sauce mixture for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail as an appetizer at a party or as a light lunch or dinner option.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the shrimp in salted water until they turn pink and are cooked through.

- Slice the strawberries just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.

- Use dill or parsley instead of tarragon for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce mixture and cook the shrimp ahead of time, but assemble the cocktail just before serving to prevent the strawberries from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cocktail in martini glasses for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail with a crisp white wine or a sparkling rosé.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the shrimp gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and eggs (mayonnaise), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail is a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress your guests. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her beach house. Maria had always been an excellent cook, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her.

That day, as we sat on her porch sipping iced tea and enjoying the ocean breeze, Maria pulled out a cookbook that had been passed down to her from her grandmother. She flipped through the pages, pointing out recipes that she had tried and loved. And then, she came across a recipe for Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail.

I had never heard of such a dish before, and I was intrigued. Maria explained that it was a refreshing and flavorful appetizer that was perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of sweet strawberries and succulent shrimp, paired with a tangy cocktail sauce, sounded absolutely delicious.

Maria offered to teach me how to make the dish, and I eagerly accepted. We went to the local market to gather all the necessary ingredients – fresh strawberries, plump shrimp, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and of course, the ingredients for the cocktail sauce.

Back at Maria's beach house, we got to work. Maria guided me through each step of the recipe, from boiling the shrimp to chopping the vegetables to mixing the cocktail sauce. As we worked together in the kitchen, I felt a sense of joy and camaraderie that I had never experienced before.

Finally, the Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail was ready. We plated it beautifully, garnishing it with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a wedge of lemon. Maria poured us each a glass of chilled white wine, and we sat down to enjoy our creation.

The first bite was pure bliss. The sweetness of the strawberries paired perfectly with the savory shrimp, and the cocktail sauce added a delightful kick of flavor. I couldn't believe how delicious it was – it was like a burst of summer in every bite.

As we sat there savoring our meal, Maria shared with me the story of how she had learned to make the recipe. She had picked it up from a friend during a trip to Spain many years ago, and it had become a staple in her repertoire ever since.

I was in awe of Maria's culinary skills and her ability to bring people together through food. That day, I not only learned how to make a delicious Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail, but I also gained a deeper appreciation for the art of cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.

Since that day, the recipe for Strawberry Shrimp Cocktail has become one of my favorites to make. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Maria started with me. And every time I make it, I am reminded of that special summer day at the beach house, where I learned not just a recipe, but a lesson in love, friendship, and the magic of good food.