Tomato Seafood Cocktail

Ingredients

  • 1 quart tomato juice
  • 1 (12-ounce) bottle seafood cocktail sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon mild horseradish
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 green onion, diced (optional)
  • 2 cups diced celery
  • 1/4 to 1/2 pound fresh cooked tiny shrimp or crab
  • 8 large shrimp, for garnish

Looking for a bold and refreshing appetizer to wow your guests? This Tomato Seafood Cocktail blends tomato juice, cocktail sauce, and lemon with fresh shrimp and celery for a zesty, spoonable starter. It’s like a cross between shrimp cocktail and chilled gazpacho—tangy, bright, and packed with flavor. Perfect for brunches, summer cookouts, or any seafood-themed spread.

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    In a large bowl or pitcher, combine the tomato juice, cocktail sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, horseradish, sugar, and garlic salt.
  • 2
    Stir in the diced green onion (if using), celery, and tiny shrimp or crab.
  • 3
    Cover and chill for 24 hours to let flavors meld.
  • 4
    Serve in clear glasses or small bowls, garnished with one large shrimp hanging on the rim.
  • 5
    Best served cold with a spoon, but can be gently warmed and served hot if preferred.
  • 6
    Serves 8 to 10.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • 1
    ✔ Bursting with savory, citrusy flavor
  • 2
    ✔ A spoonable twist on classic shrimp cocktail
  • 3
    ✔ Can be made ahead – great for entertaining
  • 4
    ✔ Serve chilled or hot depending on the season
  • 5
    ✔ Looks elegant served in glass dishes

Tips & Variations:

  • 1
    Spicy Option: Use spicy cocktail sauce and hot horseradish for a punch of heat.
  • 2
    Meat Swap: Substitute lump crabmeat, bay scallops, or a seafood mix.
  • 3
    Fresh Factor: Add finely chopped cucumber or avocado right before serving.
  • 4
    No Seafood? Make it vegetarian by swapping shrimp for chopped hearts of palm or chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions:

  • 1

    Serve this alongside grilled fish or chicken

  • 2

    Pair with Bloody Marys or sparkling water with lemon

  • 3

    Accompany with saltine crackers or crostini for texture

Roughing It Easy

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