Zesty Shrimp Cocktail Dip
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and zesty Shrimp Cocktail Dip, perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy night in. Combining tender small shrimp with a rich blend of sour cream and tangy chili sauce, this dip offers a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Enhanced with a dash of lemon juice, a hint of horseradish, and a touch of hot pepper sauce, it creates an irresistible balance of creaminess and spice. Serve with crunchy crackers for a perfect pairing that will impress your guests and leave them craving more!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
small shrimp
1 (4 1/2 ounce) can (rinsed, drained, and coarsely chopped)
sour cream
1 cup (none)
chili sauce
1/4 cup (none)
lemon juice
2 teaspoons (freshly squeezed)
prepared horseradish
1/2 to 1 teaspoon (to taste)
seasoning salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
hot pepper sauce
1 dash (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and chopped small shrimp, sour cream, chili sauce, lemon juice, prepared horseradish, seasoning salt, and hot pepper sauce.
2
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4
Before serving, give the dip a quick stir and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
5
Serve chilled with an assortment of crackers for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Shrimp Cocktail Dip?
It is a creamy and tangy appetizer featuring small shrimp, sour cream, and a blend of zesty spices.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 8 people.
How long does the preparation take?
The active preparation time is less than 15 minutes, though it requires chilling time.
What type of shrimp is best for this dip?
The recipe calls for one 4 1/2 ounce can of small shrimp, which should be rinsed and drained.
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, peeled, and finely chopped fresh shrimp as a high-quality substitute.
How do I prepare the shrimp for the mixture?
The shrimp should be rinsed, drained, and coarsely chopped to ensure even distribution in the dip.
What is the base of the dip made of?
The base is made of 1 cup of creamy sour cream.
What ingredients provide the zesty flavor?
The zest comes from a combination of chili sauce, lemon juice, prepared horseradish, and hot pepper sauce.
How much horseradish should I add?
The recipe recommends between 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, depending on your preference for heat.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dip?
Yes, you can easily adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce and horseradish to make it milder or hotter.
What can I substitute for chili sauce?
In a pinch, you can use ketchup mixed with a small amount of vinegar and hot sauce.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used.
How long should the dip chill before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I make this dip a day in advance?
Yes, making it the night before is recommended as it allows the flavors to develop more fully.
What should I serve with Zesty Shrimp Cocktail Dip?
It is best served chilled with an assortment of your favorite crunchy crackers.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any remaining dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will the dip stay fresh in the fridge?
The dip will remain fresh for up to 2-3 days when stored properly.
Can I freeze this shrimp dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the sour cream can separate and become grainy once thawed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are typically gluten-free, but you should verify the labels on your chili sauce and seasoning salt.
Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like plain almond or soy-based yogurt.
What are some optional add-ins for crunch?
Finely diced celery or green onions make excellent additions if you want more texture.
What kind of seasoning salt is used?
Any standard all-purpose seasoning salt will work to enhance the savory flavor.
Is this dip served hot or cold?
This is a cold dip intended to be served thoroughly chilled.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds extra protein and a similar tang.
What is the texture of the dip like?
It has a creamy, smooth consistency with small, tender chunks of shrimp throughout.
Can I add fresh herbs to the recipe?
Fresh dill or chopped parsley would complement the seafood and lemon flavors beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is a perfect appetizer for gatherings, picnics, or holiday events.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely, you can double all the ingredients to accommodate more guests.
What type of chili sauce is recommended?
A standard tomato-based chili sauce, such as Heinz, works best for this recipe.
Is the hot pepper sauce essential?
The dash of hot pepper sauce is optional but provides a nice depth of flavor without making it overly spicy.