Classic Cocktail Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This classic cocktail sauce is a zesty and tangy complement to seafood dishes, especially shrimp. It’s quick to make and brightens up any appetizer platter with its bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) bottle chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, prepared horseradish, and lemon juice.
- Step 2: Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the horseradish amount to control the heat—add more for extra kick or less for a milder taste.
- For a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika.
- Serve chilled for the best refreshing effect alongside chilled seafood.
Storage
Store the cocktail sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before serving if separated. It is best served cold but can be brought to room temperature if preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make cocktail sauce ahead of time?
Yes, cocktail sauce can be made a day or two in advance. The flavors will meld together nicely, making it even more flavorful.
What seafood pairs best with cocktail sauce?
Cocktail sauce is traditionally served with shrimp, but it also complements crab, lobster, oysters, and even fried fish.
PrintClassic Cocktail Sauce Recipe
This classic cocktail sauce is a zesty and tangy condiment perfect for pairing with seafood such as shrimp, crab, or oysters. Made with a base of chili sauce, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice, it delivers a vibrant kick to enhance your favorite appetizers or dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) bottle chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, pour in the entire 16 ounces of chili sauce.
- Add Worcestershire Sauce and Horseradish: Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1/4 cup of prepared horseradish, ensuring they are evenly mixed into the chili sauce.
- Add Lemon Juice: Pour 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice into the mixture to add a bright acidity that balances the flavors.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon to mix all the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and uniformly combined.
- Serve or Store: The cocktail sauce can be served immediately or covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week to let the flavors meld further.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the amount of horseradish to taste.
- This sauce pairs excellently with chilled shrimp, crab legs, oysters, and other seafood.
- For best flavor, prepare the sauce a few hours before serving to allow the ingredients to meld.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- If you want a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce briefly in a food processor.
Keywords: cocktail sauce, seafood sauce, shrimp sauce, horseradish sauce, easy condiment, appetizer sauce
