Seafood Cocktail Platter
A Seafood Cocktail Platter is a visually stunning and delicious arrangement of fresh seafood, typically including shrimp, crab, and other shellfish, served with tangy cocktail sauce and garnishes. This dish is not only impressive but also light and refreshing, making it perfect for warm-weather entertaining.
Ingredients
- ### For the Seafood:
- - 500 g large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on
- - 300 g cooked crab meat or crab legs
- - 300 g mussels cleaned
- - 300 g scallops optional
- - 1 lemon cut into wedges
- - Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
- - Ice for serving
- ### For the Cocktail Sauce:
- - 1 cup ketchup
- - 2 tablespoons horseradish prepared
- - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- - 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Optional: a few dashes of hot sauce for extra kick
Instructions
- **Prepare the Seafood**:
- - For the shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat, drain, and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat dry.
- - For the mussels: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cleaned mussels and cover. Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels open. Discard any that remain closed. Let cool slightly and remove from shells if desired.
- - For the scallops (if using): Sear them in a hot skillet with a little olive oil for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool.
- **Make the Cocktail Sauce**:
- - In a bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste. If you like it spicy, add a few dashes of hot sauce.
- **Assemble the Platter**:
- - On a large serving platter or board, arrange the seafood artistically. Place the shrimp, crab meat, mussels, and scallops in separate sections or clusters.
- - Add lemon wedges and sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill for garnish.
- - Serve the cocktail sauce in a small bowl in the center or alongside the seafood.
- **Serve**:
- - Serve the seafood cocktail platter chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy with additional lemon wedges and cocktail sauce for dipping.
Video
Notes
- Additional Tips: Feel free to customize the seafood selection based on your preferences or what’s available. You can also add items like calamari, oysters, or lobster for a more extravagant platter.
- Storage: Leftover seafood can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh.