Deliciously Simple Shrimp Cocktail Recipe for Any Occasion
Are you looking for a delicious and healthy recipe that will impress your guests? Look no further than this traditional shrimp cocktail recipe, perfect for the HCG Phase 2 diet.
As a health-conscious guru, I understand the importance of both taste and nutrition, and this recipe delivers on both fronts. Combining succulent raw shrimp with a homemade cocktail sauce featuring apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and low-sodium tomato paste, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds while also keeping you on track with your weight loss goals.
With simple science-backed ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, even HCG diet beginners can master this recipe without sacrificing delicious flavors. Plus, substitutions and variations are included so that you can make it your own.
Offering 1 vegetable serving and 1 protein per serving of 100g of raw shrimp (approximately 10-12 small-medium sized shrimp), this dish is not only nutritious but also filling. And with tips for perfect results, FAQs and serving suggestions, you can confidently serve up this dish at your next party or enjoy it as part of a light seafood salad.
So let’s dive in, cook up some shrimp, and enjoy a delicious traditional shrimp cocktail that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that can satisfy your seafood cravings without derailing your weight loss goals? Look no further than this traditional shrimp cocktail recipe, perfect for HCG Phase 2!
With its punchy cocktail sauce made from low-sodium tomato paste, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, and stevia, this dish packs a flavor punch. But that’s not all – the juicy and succulent raw shrimp add a perfect contrast to the tangy sauce.
Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also low in calories and high in protein. Each serving contains only 100g of raw shrimp, which counts as one protein serving and one vegetable serving on the HCG diet. Plus, with just two tablespoons of olive oil used to sauté the shrimp, this truly is a health-conscious meal.
Whether you’re following the HCG diet strictly or just looking for a light and refreshing seafood salad option, this traditional shrimp cocktail recipe is an excellent choice. So why not give it a try and enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits that come with it?
Ingredient List
The recipe calls for 100g raw shrimp counts as 1 protein and 1 vegetable serving on the HCG Diet. The serving will provide a lean source of protein alongside a colorful presentation of veggies. Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to make this traditional shrimp cocktail HCG phase 2 recipe.
Main Ingredients:
- 100g raw shrimp, deveined and peeled
- Sea salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Low-sodium tomato paste – 2 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice – 1 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp
- Mustard powder
- Horseradish
Optional Ingredients:
For those who prefer specific taste, the following ingredients can be added:
- Italian garlic shrimp
- Cocktail salad
- Shrimp ceviche
- Seafood cocktail
- Grilled shrimp salad
Homemade Chicken Broth (Optional):
To prepare this dish with extra flavor, you may want to add homemade chicken broth to the main ingredients.
Note:
Make sure to rinse the shrimp well under cold water before use. Also, remember that during the HCG Diet Phase 2, consuming low sodium is important.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Rinse the Shrimp
The first step in making this traditional shrimp cocktail dish is to rinse the raw shrimp under cold water. Make sure to clean them properly and remove any shells or veins present.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Bring water to a boil and add some sea salt and pepper to it along with the rinsed shrimps. Cook them till they change color which should take approximately 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Chill the Cooked Shrimp
Cool down the cooked shrimps by transferring them to an ice bath for 5 minutes. Remove from ice, drain excess water, and pat them dry using paper towels.
Making the Cocktail Sauce
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
For preparing the cocktail sauce, mix in some low-sodium tomato paste, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, and stevia in a bowl
Step 5: Add Mustard Powder
Add some mustard powder and keep stirring until everything is mixed uniformly.
Step 6: Taste & Adjust Seasonings
Taste the cocktail sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Assembling the Dish
Step 7: Plate Your Dish
Arrange the chilled shrimps on a plate and add some cocktail sauce over them.
Step 8: Garnish & Serve
Garnish with some lemon wedges on top of your dish, add some more pepper if you want and your traditional shrimp cocktail HCG phase 2 recipe is ready to be served!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many ways to put your own spin on this traditional shrimp cocktail. Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Make it spicy! Add some extra horseradish or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cocktail sauce to give it a kick.
– Swap out the apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar.
– Use lime juice instead of lemon juice, or try a combination of both for a citrusy twist.
– If you’re not a fan of raw shrimp, cooked shrimp can be used instead. Simply poach the shrimp until they turn pink and let them chill in the refrigerator before assembling the cocktail.
– For a lower-fat version, you can use Greek yogurt or light mayo instead of heavy cream to lighten up your cocktail sauce. You can also experiment with other spices such as paprika or turmeric.
– For an unexpected twist add a teaspoon of mustard powder and blend well into the homemade cocktail sauce to add more depth to its flavor profile.
Keep in mind that substitutions may change the overall flavour profile and that care must be taken. Don’t hesitate to be creative and experiment to suit your tastes!.
Serving and Pairing
This Traditional Shrimp Cocktail recipe is a classic appetizer that will surely please your health-conscious guests. The dish can also be used as part of a light lunch or evening snack. The cocktail pairs well with a variety of sides, including crusty bread, crudites, or even grilled corn on the cob. It’s also perfect for pairing with white wines like sauvignon blanc or chardonnay.
To serve the dish, you can either arrange the shrimp and cocktail sauce separately onto a platter or combine them both in a small glass or bowl. Serve the cocktail sauce on top with a spritz of fresh lemon juice and a dash of horseradish for some extra flavor.
For larger parties or gatherings, you can create a beautiful display by serving the shrimp and cocktail sauce on ice in a large glass tray with some lemon wedges and fresh herbs for decoration.
When it comes to pairing this classic cocktail, you can go with bold spicy flavors like jalapeno guacamole, hummus with cumin-scented pita chips, or classic French onion dip. Alternatively, if you prefer something lighter to accompany your traditional shrimp cocktail, try serving it with spring vegetable crudites dressed in herbaceous dip or roasted artichokes.
Overall, this traditional shrimp cocktail is the perfect addition to any party or gathering. The dish is easy to make and can be served in several ways to suit your preference. With its delicious flavor, you and your guests will love every bite.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Traditional Shrimp Cocktail recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for parties and gatherings. To make ahead, prep and assemble the cocktail sauce and cook the shrimp, then store them separately until you’re ready to serve.
To store, simply transfer the shrimp to an airtight container or sealable bag and place in the refrigerator for up to two days. The cocktail sauce can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When it’s time to serve, arrange the cooked shrimp on a platter or individual plates and spoon a generous amount of cocktail sauce onto each shrimp. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat the shrimp, simply place them in a pan with a splash of olive oil over medium heat until heated through. The cocktail sauce can be reheated by gently warming it in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or prepping for a family meal, this Traditional Shrimp Cocktail recipe is easy to make ahead, store and reheat. Keep it on hand for a quick and delicious option that will impress even the most health conscious guru!
Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing a delicious shrimp cocktail is an achievement in itself, but preparing a traditional shrimp cocktail that is HCG Phase 2 compliant requires a bit more finesse. For beginners of the HCG diet or those new to cooking seafood, perfecting this recipe may seem like a daunting task. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can impress even the most health-conscious guru.
One of the most important things to note is that HCG Phase 2 requires low-sodium ingredients. So when it comes to selecting the ingredients for your traditional shrimp cocktail recipe, ensure that you check their sodium content. It’s also worthwhile investing in low-sodium versions of horseradish, mustard powder, and other seasonings.
Another key factor that elevates the flavor of this dish is the freshness of the ingredients. Opt for fresh lemon juice over bottled varieties and use high-quality raw shrimp to guarantee juicy and tender meat. Rinse the raw shrimp thoroughly and pat dry with a cloth or paper towels before use.
To add an extra level of depth of flavor to your traditional shrimp cocktail, consider grilling or baking the shrimp with olive oil and pepper beforehand. This will allow the smoky notes to blend beautifully with the homemade cocktail sauce.
If you’re serving for a crowd at your party, consider doubling up on the recipe instead of making two separate batches. This saves time and ensures proportional ratios of all ingredients.
When it comes to presentation, opt for transparent glassware or martini glasses to showcase the vibrant colors of your dish. Garnish with a lemon wedge or sprig of parsley for added visual appeal.
Lastly, feel free to add some personal flair by experimenting with variations such as shrimp ceviche, garlic shrimp, seafood cocktail, or grilled shrimp salad.
With these tips in mind, your Traditional Shrimp Cocktail will be both mouth-wateringly tasty and HCG Phase 2-friendly – perfect for those looking to lose weight without compromising on flavor. Bon Appetit!
FAQ
Before we conclude, let’s take a moment to address some frequently asked questions about this Traditional Shrimp Cocktail HCG Phase 2 Recipe. This will help you avoid any confusion and ensure that you have all the necessary information to create the perfect shrimp cocktail, especially if you are new to the HCG diet or cooking with raw shrimp. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the FAQ section.
Is shrimp allowed on HCG diet?
For this recipe, it is important to use the appropriate type of shrimp to ensure it satisfies the requirements for the HCG Diet’s Phase 2, and counts as 1 vegetable serving, 1 ‘carb’ serving, and 1 protein serving. I advise you to opt for pre-cooked, mid-sized thawed shrimp that can be found in the frozen food aisle.
How does Ina Garten cook shrimp for shrimp cocktail?
To kick off this flavorful dish, let’s start by preheating the oven to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Next up, we want to prepare the shrimp by removing the outer layer and taking out the vein. Make sure to keep the tails on for an eye-catching presentation. With the shrimp all set, place them onto a sheet pan and evenly spread olive oil, salt, and pepper on top. Let the oven work its magic for 8 to 10 minutes and take your shrimp out once they’re a lovely pink hue and firm to the touch. Remember, we want them to be cooked all the way through, so don’t rush it!
Do I need to rinse shrimp cocktail?
Before using shrimp in your recipe, it’s important to clean them thoroughly. You can clean both raw and pre-cooked shrimp by rinsing them under cold water. This will help remove any debris or shell bits that may be stuck to the shrimp.
Is shrimp cocktail cooked or raw?
Shrimp cocktail may seem like a dish that’s served raw, but in reality, the shrimp is cooked until it turns pink and completely cooked through before being chilled. Our recipe includes a delicious sauce that adds even more flavor to the already-seasoned shrimp.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Traditional Shrimp Cocktail is an excellent addition to your HCG Phase 2 recipe collection. It is a flavorful and healthy dish that is simple to prepare, making it the perfect option for beginners in the HCG diet. With its low-sodium tomato paste base, apple cider, and fresh lemon juice seasoning, you can enjoy a guilt-free, seafood cocktail. Additionally, its protein and vegetable serving counts make it an excellent option for weight loss lovers or anyone looking to adopt a health-conscious diet.
Not only does this recipe stand on its own as a delicious dish, but it also provides numerous customizable options for Substitutions and Variations to fit your taste preferences. You can try out different ingredients like mustard powder, horseradish, stevia, or even different seafood and create new mouthwatering recipes.
Lastly, the Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating Tips provided ensure you never have to compromise on quality or freshness. You can even experiment with other dishes like shrimp ceviche, garlic shrimp or grilled shrimp salad if you find yourself with any leftover shrimp cocktail.
Overall, this recipe offers ample room for creativity while providing a satisfying conclusion to your health journey. Trust us; the Traditional Shrimp Cocktail is a recipe that would quickly become one of your diet cookbook favorites – an irresistible treat for your taste buds! Don’t wait; give it a try today!
Traditional Shrimp Cocktail - HCG Phase 2 Recipe
Ingredients
- 100 g raw shrimp (approx. 10-12 small to medium)
- 2 ounces low-sodium tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon horseradish
- 1 dash mustard powder
- 4 drops stevia
- 1 dash sea salt
- 1 dash pepper
Instructions
- Steam shrimp until pink and well cooked. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Mix all other ingredients together and chill to allow spices to marinate. Add water as needed for desired consistency.
- Can be served on ice or lettuce leaves.
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!