Simple Shrimp Cocktail for Summer: Sugar Free, Dairy Free, Paleo Friendly

Growing up, one of my favorite restaurants to go to was a seafood place/oyster bar called "Aw Shucks".  The venue is small, and most seating is outdoors. I always was fascinated by the fact that you went inside (if you want to call it that- basically it is just where the cooks are!) to order your food, and when it is ready for you to get it, they call your name on a over speaker. Such great memories!



Image via awshucksdallas.com 

An absolute STAPLE item that we always got was their shrimp cocktails. Such yummy things... baby shrimp mixed with fresh chunks of avocado, tomato, and cilantro, all in a wonderful tomato like juice. They were INCREDIBLE. So fresh, it seemed like you just wanted more and more.

Eventually we asked how they made their cocktails, and found the ingredients to actually be REALLY simple. My parents were overjoyed to be able to make one of our favorite things right at home! Since becoming healthier, there are a few items which I replace with better choices when I choose to make these. For example: for their cocktail "juice", they included ketchup (probably the kind from the store, full of sugar and high fructose corn syrup).

I thought these recipe would be rather fitting due to the yummy shrimp recipe I just posted! It is so simple, and the ingredients are actually quiet minimal in relation to the HUGE flavor it gives!

Simple Shrimp Cocktail for Summer
Yields 4 servings 

• Eight large shrimp, cooked and broken into small bite size pieces 
• 4 TBSP tomato paste 
• Juice of 1 Lime
• 1/2 cup water 
• 1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 avocado, diced 
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/3 medium onion, diced 
• Pinch of salt and pepper 

1) In a large container, combine the tomato paste with the lime juice and water, and stir until liquidy. Add a bit more water if needed.

2)Combined the other ingredients into the container and carefully mix with a large spoon.

3) Dish out your cocktail in individual glasses, and enjoy! 

What are some of your favorite recipes using shrimp?
Do you have special memories with a certain restaurant, or food?

Try this recipe out and tell me what you think!

Natalie