Cocktail Sauce
A zesty, tangy, and spicy classic American condiment perfect for shrimp cocktail, oysters, and fried seafood. This no-cook sauce comes together in just 5 minutes with a few simple pantry staples.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- 3
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper
- a.Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want more horseradish for heat, more lemon for tang, or more salt for balance.
- 4
Step 4
- a.For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The quality of your ketchup is paramount. A high-quality ketchup with less high-fructose corn syrup will yield a much better-tasting sauce.
- 2Adjust the horseradish to your personal spice preference. Start with 2 tablespoons for a milder sauce and go up to 4 for an extra-potent kick.
- 3Letting the sauce chill is a crucial step. The flavors become much more balanced and robust after resting in the refrigerator.
- 4This sauce can be made up to one week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavor will actually improve after a day or two.
- 5Serve chilled with poached shrimp, raw oysters, crab cakes, fried calamari, or even as a zesty dip for french fries.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Cocktail Sauce
Add 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a deep, smoky flavor.
Garlicky Cocktail SauceGarlicky Cocktail Sauce
For a savory twist, whisk in 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or 1/2 teaspoon of finely minced fresh garlic.
Spicier Cocktail SauceSpicier Cocktail Sauce
Increase the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a habanero-based hot sauce.
Herbaceous Cocktail SauceHerbaceous Cocktail Sauce
Stir in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill or chives for a fresh, herbal note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Sinus Clearing Properties
Horseradish contains a compound called allyl isothiocyanate, which is known to irritate mucous membranes in the sinuses and nose, helping to clear congestion.
Source of Antioxidants
The fresh lemon juice provides a good dose of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
A 1/4 cup serving of this homemade cocktail sauce contains approximately 40-50 calories, primarily from the sugar in the ketchup.