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Shrimp Cocktail

Perfectly cooked shrimp cocktail made in the microwave using the glass Anyday dish, ensuring tender shrimp with no unpleasant odors. Enjoy a quick and elegant appetizer that's ready in minutes.
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Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

3-4 mins
1 reviews

Free Time

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Shrimp Cocktail

1 reviews
Juicy, succulent shrimp are ready in under the time it takes you to peel a plate’s worth. Once cooled, pair them with spicy cocktail sauce for a retro appetizer. Be prepared to win cocktail party fun fact of the night if you tell your guests you cooked shrimp in the microwave.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Juicy, succulent shrimp are ready in under the time it takes you to peel a plate’s worth. Once cooled, pair them with spicy cocktail sauce for a retro appetizer. Be prepared to win cocktail party fun fact of the night if you tell your guests you cooked shrimp in the microwave.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

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Dish

The Large Shallow Dish

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

  • 8 oz (225g ) raw shrimp, shells removed and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (about half a lemon)
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the sauce:

  • ½ cup (130g) chili sauce or ketchup
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons horseradish, prepared or cream
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon tabasco sauce, optional


Preparation

  1. Place the shrimp in an Anyday dish and season with the lemon zest and salt. Cover with lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and fully cooked, being careful not to overcook.
  3. Transfer the shrimp to a flat tray or plate and place in the fridge until completely cool.
  4. Mix the sauce ingredients until smooth, adjusting seasoning and spice to your taste.


Suggestions

  • Serve with avocado: Add sliced avocado or guacamole to the plate for a creamy, smooth contrast to the shrimp’s texture.
  • Use smoky chipotle sauce: Swap out Tabasco for chipotle sauce to add a smoky, flavorful twist to the classic cocktail sauce.
  • Enjoy with fresh veggies: Serve the shrimp with fresh celery or endive leaves for a retro-style appetizer that adds crunch and freshness.
  • Go with pre-made cocktail sauce: If you're short on time, use pre-made cocktail sauce for a quick and easy version of this classic appetizer.
  • Discover more shrimp recipes by exploring our collection here!


Recipe Notes

  • You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. No need to thaw the frozen shrimp, just add 1-2 extra minutes during cooking time.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making Shrimp Cocktail in the Microwave

What is shrimp cocktail?

Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer made with tender, chilled shrimp served with a zesty cocktail sauce. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for parties, dinners, or a light lunch.

Can I cook shrimp for shrimp cocktail in the microwave?

Yes, you can! Steaming shrimp in the microwave using an Anyday dish is quick and easy. The dish helps evenly steam the shrimp, keeping them tender and juicy without needing to boil a large pot of water.

How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque. If you're unsure, check the shrimp's internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp cocktail?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! There's no need to thaw them beforehand when cooking in the microwave. Simply adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen shrimp may take an extra 1-2 minutes to cook through. Discover more from frozen recipes by exploring our collection here!

What size shrimp is best for shrimp cocktail?

Medium to large shrimp (around 16-20 count per pound) are ideal for shrimp cocktail. They’re easy to eat, hold up well during cooking, and present beautifully on a serving platter. Choose peeled, deveined shrimp to save time; you may opt for the shell-on version, but be warned that you'll have to defrost the shrimp to process them before cooking. Discover more shrimp recipes by exploring our collection here!

Why do I need to chill the shrimp after cooking?

Chilling the shrimp with ice stops the cooking process, prevents overcooking, and ensures they’re served at the perfect  temperature for shrimp cocktail. This step also locks in the tender, juicy texture of the shrimp.

How do I store leftover shrimp cocktail?

Once cooled, store leftover shrimp in an Anyday dish covered with the lid and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Store the cocktail sauce in a Small Anyday DIsh for optimal freshness.

Can I customize the cocktail sauce?

Absolutely! Adjust the horseradish or Tabasco sauce for your preferred spice level. Add Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of orange juice for a creative twist. The sauce is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your taste. See the serving suggestions  for more inspiration.

Want more seafood recipes?

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