Here’s a classic Prawn Cocktail 🍤🥗 — a retro appetizer that’s elegant, creamy, and easy to make.
🍤 Classic Prawn Cocktail
Ingredients (serves 2–4)
- 12–16 cooked, peeled prawns (medium or large)
- 4 cups lettuce, shredded (iceberg or romaine works best)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2–3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice (fresh)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: paprika, lemon wedges, chopped parsley
Instructions
- Make the sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Prepare the lettuce
- Wash and shred lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Divide among serving glasses or small bowls.
- Assemble the cocktail
- Toss prawns lightly with a little of the sauce, reserving some for drizzling.
- Arrange prawns on top of the lettuce.
- Drizzle remaining sauce over the prawns.
- Garnish and serve
- Sprinkle paprika over the top for color.
- Garnish with lemon wedges or parsley.
- Chill briefly in the fridge for a refreshing starter.
Tips for Perfect Prawn Cocktail
- Prawns: Use fresh or high-quality cooked prawns; large ones make it elegant.
- Sauce balance: Adjust ketchup/mayo ratio for sweeter or creamier taste.
- Presentation: Serve in cocktail glasses or small bowls for a retro, classy look.
- Optional twist: Add a splash of brandy or sherry to the sauce for a gourmet touch.
Variations
- Spicy version: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne to the sauce.
- Avocado twist: Layer diced avocado under the lettuce for creaminess.
- Seafood mix: Add crab meat or lobster chunks for extra indulgence.
I can also give a restaurant-style prawn cocktail recipe with creamy, zesty sauce, perfectly cooked prawns, and beautiful layered presentation that looks as good as it tastes.
Do you want me to do that?
