"Make your own classic shrimp cocktail with this easy recipe. Featuring a homemade cocktail sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it's an elegant appetizer for any occasion."
Fill a large pot with water, add the halved lemons, and bring to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are pink and opaque. Drain and immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to cool.
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper to make the cocktail sauce. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Once the shrimp are cooled, drain them and pat dry with paper towels.
Arrange the shrimp on a serving plate with the cocktail sauce. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.
Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve, ideally for at least 1 hour to enhance the flavors.
Notes
Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink to avoid overcooking.
• Chill the shrimp immediately after boiling to stop the cooking process and keep them firm.
• Make the cocktail sauce ahead of time to let the flavors meld together.
• Serve the cocktail chilled to enhance its refreshing taste.
• Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.