Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: A perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cooking.
- Healthy and Light: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, swap ingredients, or add your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups tomato juice
- 1/2 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Mince the jalapeño and chop the cilantro.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the tomato juice, lime juice, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Add the shrimp, avocado, cucumber, red onion, tomato, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or crackers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Mild Version: Skip the jalapeño and reduce the hot sauce for a milder flavor.
- Extra Spicy: Add more jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Seafood Mix: Swap some shrimp for crab or scallops for variety.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Serve cold—no reheating needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the texture of fresh vegetables and avocado.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before using.
What should I serve with this shrimp cocktail?
Tortilla chips, tostadas, or saltine crackers are great options.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the jalapeño and hot sauce.
What’s the best tomato juice to use?
Use a high-quality or homemade tomato juice for the best flavor.
Conclusion
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail with Avocado & Lime is a bright, refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or a light, healthy meal. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Mexico in your own kitchen!

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail with Avocado & Lime
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones) is a refreshing dish featuring juicy shrimp tossed in a zesty tomato-lime sauce with avocado, crisp vegetables, and fresh cilantro. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal, this vibrant recipe is packed with bold Mexican flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups tomato juice
- 1/2 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Mince the jalapeño and chop the cilantro.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce:
- In a large bowl, mix the tomato juice, lime juice, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the shrimp, avocado, cucumber, red onion, tomato, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or crackers
Notes
- Mild Version: Skip the jalapeño and reduce the hot sauce for a milder flavor.
- Extra Spicy: Add more jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Seafood Mix: Swap some shrimp for crab or scallops for variety.