A shrimp cocktail platter is more than just a party appetizer it’s a timeless, elegant starter that adds a polished touch to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, weekend brunch, or casual cocktail hour, few dishes deliver the same balance of simplicity, flavor, and visual appeal.
At gatetasty, we believe classic dishes deserve to be done right. That’s why we’ve partnered with Chef Lucas Benetti to show you exactly how to prep, plate, and serve a shrimp cocktail platter that impresses every time without stress.
What Makes a Great Shrimp Cocktail Platter?
Not all shrimp platters are created equal. The difference between a forgettable starter and a show stopping platter comes down to freshness, presentation, and seasoning.
Key Elements of a Perfect Platter
| Element | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Quality shrimp | Fresh or well cooked frozen shrimp tastes better |
| Proper seasoning | Salty water brings out natural sweetness |
| Chill factor | Shrimp must be ice cold for best flavor and texture |
| Balanced presentation | Layered, garnished, and visually inviting |
| Great dipping sauce | Classic cocktail sauce or elevated flavors |
Chef Lucas says: “People eat with their eyes first. A chilled, well arranged shrimp platter creates anticipation before the first bite.”
Chef Lucas Benetti’s Plating & Flavor Tips
Chef Lucas Benetti knows that it takes just a few smart touches to turn basic boiled shrimp into a standout dish. His approach is about layering texture, temperature, and visual contrast.
His Signature Shrimp Platter Touches
- Use shell on shrimp for poaching, then peel it retains moisture
- Salt your cooking water like the sea to enhance natural flavor
- Add a splash of lemon juice and bay leaf while boiling
- Chill shrimp quickly in an ice bath to lock in the bite
- Plate on crushed ice or a chilled tray for lasting freshness
- Serve with two sauces traditional cocktail and something bold (like garlic aioli or spicy remoulade)
“When shrimp are cooked right and served cold, they don’t need much but the sauce and plating take it to the next level,” Lucas explains.
gatetasty’s Step by Step Shrimp Cocktail Method
Here’s how to prep and plate a shrimp cocktail platter like a pro in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8 as appetizer)
- 2 pounds large shrimp (16–20 count), deveined, shell on or peeled
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- Ice for chilling and serving
- Lemon wedges, parsley or dill (for garnish)
Cocktail Sauce (Quick Version)
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Pinch of cayenne or hot sauce
Instructions
1. Boil the shrimp
Fill a large pot with water, add salt, lemon slices, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
2. Cook
Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and firm. Don’t overcook.
3. Chill immediately
Transfer to an ice bath for 5–10 minutes to stop cooking and firm up texture.
4. Peel (if shell on)
Leave tails on for presentation. Pat dry.
5. Make the sauce
Mix all sauce ingredients together and refrigerate until serving.
6. Plate it
Arrange shrimp over crushed ice or a cold platter. Garnish with herbs and lemon. Serve with one or more sauces in ramekins.
Ingredients & Garnish Ideas Table
| Main Ingredients | Options & Variations |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (poached or steamed) | Use large, firm shrimp (tail on preferred) |
| Cocktail sauce | Add lemon, horseradish, or chili for heat |
| Garlic aioli | Creamy alternative to tomato based dips |
| Lemon wedges | Essential for brightness and balance |
| Fresh herbs | Dill, parsley, or chives for garnish |
| Crushed ice or lettuce | Keeps shrimp cold, adds presentation |
Presentation Tips: Ice, Elevation & Arrangement
A shrimp cocktail platter should look as good as it tastes. Here’s how to make yours look like it came from a catering tray.
Plating Tips from Chef Lucas
- Use a tiered tray or round platter for visual impact
- Place shrimp in concentric circles, tails pointing out
- Set sauces in the center or small bowls around the platter
- Use crushed ice, chilled lettuce, or marble slab to keep everything cold
- Garnish with lemon slices, dill sprigs, or edible flowers for color
Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
Whether you’re serving this as a starter or centerpiece, pairing matters. Keep it simple and elegant with light drinks and fresh sides.
Ideal Pairings for Shrimp Cocktail
| Item | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Sparkling wine or Prosecco | Enhances delicate shrimp flavor |
| Dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc) | Crisp, citrusy balance |
| Sparkling water with lemon | Non alcoholic but refreshing |
| Arugula salad or coleslaw | Adds crunch and color |
| Garlic bread crostini | Optional carb pairing |
FAQs About Shrimp Cocktail Platters
1. How to serve shrimp cocktail for a party?
Serve shrimp cocktail on a large chilled platter or tiered tray, ideally over crushed ice or a bed of lettuce to keep the shrimp cold. Arrange the shrimp in circles or rows with the tails facing outward for easy grabbing. Include cocktail sauce in small ramekins in the center or around the edge, and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for presentation. Always serve with cocktail napkins and small plates for your guests’ convenience.
2. How to keep shrimp cocktail cold at a party?
The key is to keep the serving surface cold. Use a platter over a tray of ice, a chilled marble slab, or line the serving tray with crushed ice directly. If serving outdoors or over time, replenish the ice as needed and consider smaller refills rather than putting out the full quantity at once. You can also serve shrimp in individual cups over crushed ice for portion control and freshness.
3. How much is the shrimp platter at Costco?
Costco’s shrimp platters vary slightly by location, but as of recent pricing, a shrimp cocktail tray typically costs between $40–$50 and includes 2–3 pounds of shrimp, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges. It’s a convenient option for quick party prep, but for better flavor and presentation, many prefer homemade platters like Chef Lucas Benetti’s version on gatetasty.
4. What goes with shrimp platter?
Shrimp cocktail pairs well with crisp white wines (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), sparkling water with citrus, and light appetizers such as crostini, cheese boards, or arugula salad. For texture contrast, serve it alongside fresh bread, crackers, or roasted nuts. Keep the sides simple so the shrimp remains the centerpiece of the spread.
5.Can I make a shrimp cocktail platter ahead of time?
Yes. You can boil and chill the shrimp up to 1 day ahead, store covered in the fridge, and assemble just before serving. Keep garnishes and ice separate until plating.
Conclusion
An elegant shrimp cocktail platter never goes out of style. With just a handful of ingredients and a little care, you can create a dish that feels both timeless and luxurious. With Chef Lucas Benetti’s tips and the clear, simple method from gatetasty, your next party appetizer is not just delicious it’s unforgettable.
Whether you’re hosting for the holidays or just enjoying a quiet dinner with friends, this dish brings elegance without stress. And once you master it, you’ll find it becomes a go to classic that never disappoints.
Explore more party starters, seafood recipes, and celebration ready dishes at gatetasty.com where Chef Lucas Benetti turns timeless favorites into modern masterpieces.
