Prawn Cocktail 🍤🥗 — a classic retro appetizer featuring chilled prawns (or shrimp) served with a tangy, creamy cocktail sauce, often layered over crisp lettuce. Elegant, simple, and perfect for starters.
Classic Prawn Cocktail (Serves 4)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) cooked, peeled prawns (or shrimp)
- 4 cups shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2–3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- ¼ tsp hot sauce (optional, like Tabasco)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Make Cocktail Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2️⃣ Prepare Lettuce
- Wash and dry lettuce.
- Chop or shred and divide evenly among serving glasses or bowls.
3️⃣ Assemble
- Toss prawns lightly with a small portion of cocktail sauce.
- Arrange prawns on top of the lettuce.
- Drizzle remaining sauce over the top or serve on the side.
4️⃣ Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with lemon wedges or a sprig of fresh parsley.
- Serve chilled.
Tips
- Use high-quality, fresh or frozen prawns for best flavor.
- For a more elegant presentation, serve in cocktail glasses or martini glasses.
- Add avocado slices or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flair.
- Can prepare sauce a day ahead for convenience.
I can also give you a classic British “retro” prawn cocktail with Marie Rose sauce, which is creamier and slightly sweeter than the standard version.
Do you want me to provide that recipe?
