Old Vegas Style Shrimp Cocktail: A Timeless Taste of the Strip
There are certain dishes that transport you back in time, conjuring images of dimly lit lounges, clinking ice, and the hushed thrill of anticipation. For me, that dish is the classic Old Vegas Style Shrimp Cocktail. My husband and I, on our many trips to the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, have a cherished tradition: we always make a pilgrimage to the Bay City Diner. It’s not just the food, but the entire experience – the retro charm, the friendly service, and, of course, their distinctively prepared shrimp cocktail that always beckons us back. It’s more than just an appetizer; it’s a delicious echo of a bygone era, a taste of pure, unadulterated indulgence that never fails to impress.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Yield: Shrimp Cocktail for 2-3
- Dietary Type: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) bag cocktail-size cooked shrimp, thawed
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 (8-ounce) bottle your favorite seafood cocktail sauce
- 1 lemon, wedged
Equipment Needed
- Small serving bowls or glasses (parfait glasses are ideal for presentation)
- Paper towels
Instructions
This iconic appetizer is blessedly simple, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. The preparation is minimal, making it perfect for a quick, elegant starter.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Begin by thawing your cocktail-size cooked shrimp. If they are frozen, allow them to thaw completely according to package directions. Once thawed, rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold running water. This helps to remove any residual ice or brine and ensures a clean, fresh flavor.
- Dry the Shrimp: After rinsing, it’s crucial to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is a small but significant step that prevents the cocktail sauce from becoming diluted and allows any seasoning to adhere properly.
- Season Lightly: Once the shrimp are thoroughly dried, sprinkle them with a little salt. This subtle seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and provides a more well-rounded flavor profile. Don’t over-salt; just a light dusting is all that’s needed.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in your chosen serving vessels. Small glass bowls or, for a touch of vintage flair, parfait glasses work wonderfully. Then, pour your desired amount of seafood cocktail sauce over the shrimp. Some prefer to have the sauce generously coat the shrimp, while others like just a dollop. The choice is entirely yours!
- Garnish and Enjoy: Finally, serve with a lemon wedge or two. The bright, acidic zest of the lemon is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, savory cocktail sauce and the sweet shrimp. Serve immediately and enjoy this timeless taste of Las Vegas luxury.
Expert Tips & Tricks
The beauty of an Old Vegas shrimp cocktail lies in its simplicity, but a few professional touches can elevate it even further.
- Quality is Key: Since there are so few ingredients, the quality of each one matters immensely. Opt for the freshest, plumpest cooked shrimp you can find. Look for shrimp that have been frozen at sea for optimal freshness.
- The Cocktail Sauce Factor: Your cocktail sauce is a star ingredient here. If you’re feeling ambitious, consider making your own. A good homemade sauce typically involves ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce. However, a high-quality store-bought sauce is perfectly acceptable and maintains the quick preparation time.
- Temperature Matters: Shrimp cocktail is best served ice cold. Ensure your shrimp are well-chilled before assembling. You can even chill your serving glasses beforehand for an extra frosty touch.
- Presentation Polish: For an extra touch of class, serve the shrimp cocktail on a bed of crushed ice. This not only keeps the dish cold but also adds to the classic presentation.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This dish is designed to be served and enjoyed immediately.
- Serving: Present the shrimp cocktail in individual bowls or glasses. A garnish of a lemon wedge is traditional and essential for squeezing over the shrimp just before eating.
- Storage: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days. However, the texture of the shrimp is best when consumed fresh. It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp cocktail once assembled.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 123 kcal | |
| Calories from Fat | ||
| Total Fat | 1.4 g | 2 % |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 1 % |
| Cholesterol | 221 mg | 73 % |
| Sodium | 255.5 mg | 10 % |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.8 g | 1 % |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 10 % |
| Sugars | 0 g | 0 % |
| Protein | 24.4 g | 48 % |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific cocktail sauce used and the size of the shrimp.
Variations & Substitutions
While the classic Old Vegas Style Shrimp Cocktail is perfect as is, there’s always room for a little culinary creativity.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the cocktail sauce or serving with a side of spicy remoulade.
- Avocado Twist: Add some diced avocado to the serving bowl alongside the shrimp for a creamier texture and a touch of healthy fat.
- Shrimp Size: While cocktail-size shrimp are traditional, you can certainly use larger, peeled and deveined shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Sauce Alternatives: While classic cocktail sauce is the go-to, a spicy mango salsa or a zesty mignonette could offer a more modern twist, though they would stray from the “Old Vegas” authenticity.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Why do I need to pat the shrimp dry?
A: Patting the shrimp dry ensures that the cocktail sauce adheres properly and prevents it from becoming diluted, maintaining a richer flavor.
Q: Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked and thawed?
A: Yes, but you would need to cook and chill them first. For this classic recipe, using pre-cooked and thawed shrimp is the standard and most convenient approach.
Q: What makes this dish “Old Vegas Style”?
A: The simplicity, the focus on quality ingredients like plump shrimp and a good cocktail sauce, and the classic presentation in a chilled glass are hallmarks of the Old Vegas style.
Q: How long does it take to prepare?
A: This recipe is incredibly quick, with a prep time of just 4 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute appetizer.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While you can thaw the shrimp and have your cocktail sauce ready, it’s best to assemble the shrimp cocktail just before serving to ensure the shrimp remain firm and chilled.
Final Thoughts
The Old Vegas Style Shrimp Cocktail is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the power of simplicity and quality ingredients. This recipe is a delicious portal to a time when dining out was an event, and every bite was savored. I encourage you to try this timeless classic, perhaps for your next gathering or simply as a special treat for yourself. Serve it with a crisp white wine or a classic martini, and let the flavors transport you. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and experiences with me – I always love hearing about your culinary adventures!