From the moment you step foot in Cartagena you will have someone trying to sell you this dish. Simple, yet so full of flavor and refreshing during a beach day in the sunny city. Coctel de Camarón Colombiano is a delicious and refreshing shrimp cocktail that brings the vibrant flavors of Colombia to your table. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or a side dish for your favorite Colombian meal. With tender shrimp, fresh herbs, and a zesty, creamy sauce, it’s a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

1 lb pre-cooked shrimp
1/2 purple onion, diced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 to 3 limes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust depending on how saucy you like it)
2 tablespoons hot sauce
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the pre-cooked shrimp. Boil for 3 minutes to ensure they're heated through. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Chop and Prep the Vegetables:

Dice half a purple onion finely and chop a handful of fresh cilantro. Set aside.

Mix the Sauce:

In a large bowl, mix together the ketchup and mayonnaise until well combined. Adjust the quantities depending on how saucy you prefer your cocktail.
Add 2 tablespoons of hot sauce to the mixture, or more if you like an extra kick.

Combine Everything:

Add the cooked shrimp, diced onion, and chopped cilantro to the sauce. Squeeze the juice of 2 to 3 limes over the mixture, adjusting the lime to your taste preference.
Season with a pinch of salt and stir everything together until the shrimp are well coated in the sauce.

Chill and Serve:

Let the shrimp cocktail chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve in individual cups or a large bowl, garnished with extra cilantro or a lime wedge.