Seafood cocktail

Seafood cocktail is a type of appetizer that primarily consists of various types of seafood. The dish is popular in many parts of the world, particularly in coastal regions where seafood is abundant.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of a seafood cocktail are typically shellfish such as shrimp, crab, and lobster. Other types of seafood, such as oysters, clams, and scallops, may also be included. The seafood is usually served chilled, often on a bed of ice to keep it fresh.

In addition to the seafood, a seafood cocktail often includes a sauce, typically made from ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. This sauce, known as cocktail sauce, is a key component of the dish, providing a tangy, spicy contrast to the sweet, delicate flavor of the seafood.

Variations

There are many variations of the seafood cocktail, reflecting the diverse range of seafood available around the world. For example, in Mexico, a popular version of the dish known as coctel de mariscos includes octopus and squid, and is served with a spicy tomato-based sauce. In the United Kingdom, a seafood cocktail might include smoked salmon and mackerel, and be served with a mayonnaise-based sauce.

Serving

Seafood cocktail is typically served as a starter or appetizer before a main course. It is often presented in a glass dish, allowing the colorful ingredients to be displayed. The dish is usually garnished with a slice of lemon and a sprig of parsley.

See also

• List of seafood dishes
• List of appetizers