Prawn cocktail is a classic and timeless appetizer that combines succulent cooked prawns with a creamy and tangy sauce. This recipe features a simple yet delicious dressing made with mayonnaise, single cream, tomato purée, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of dry sherry. The prawns are coated in this flavorful sauce and served over a bed of shredded lettuce. Prawn cocktail is a refreshing and elegant dish that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a starter to a special meal.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons single cream
- 2 teaspoons tomato purée
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Dash of Worcestershire sauce
- Dash of dry sherry
- Salt and ground black pepper
- 225g/8oz peeled and deveined cooked prawns
- A few lettuce leaves, shredded
- Lemon slices, to garnish
PREPARATIONS:
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, single cream, tomato purée, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and dry sherry. Mix together until well blended. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Coat the prawns: Add the peeled and deveined cooked prawns to the dressing. Stir well until the prawns are evenly coated with the sauce. Ensure that all the prawns are well incorporated in the dressing.
- Assemble the prawn cocktail: In four glasses or cocktail dishes, place a layer of shredded lettuce at the bottom. Spoon the prawn mixture on top of the lettuce, dividing it evenly among the glasses.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish each prawn cocktail with lemon slices for an added citrus touch. Serve the prawn cocktails cold, allowing the flavors to meld together.
YIELD: This recipe yields 4 servings of prawn cocktail.
TIPS:
- For a twist on the classic prawn cocktail, you can add a hint of paprika or cayenne pepper to the dressing to give it a subtle kick.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning and flavors of the dressing according to your taste preferences. Add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or Worcestershire sauce for a richer flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for the single cream in the dressing.
- Serve the prawn cocktail as an appetizer or starter before a main course. It pairs well with crusty bread or toast points.
Prawn cocktail is a timeless appetizer that never fails to impress. The combination of succulent prawns, creamy dressing, and crisp lettuce creates a refreshing and flavorful dish. This recipe’s creamy dressing, with its blend of mayonnaise, cream, tomato purée, and tangy accents of lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and dry sherry, coats the prawns perfectly, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
Served in elegant glasses or cocktail dishes over a bed of shredded lettuce, garnished with lemon slices, this prawn cocktail is visually appealing and enticing. It is an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Prepare the dressing, coat the prawns, and assemble the prawn cocktail with shredded lettuce. Chill the dish before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. With its creamy and tangy sauce, succulent prawns, and crisp lettuce, this prawn cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
