Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp
All the bold flavors of a classic Bloody Mary cocktail—tomato, celery, Worcestershire, and a hint of spice—transformed into a vibrant shrimp dish. Finished with herbs and lemon, this recipe is perfect served over pasta for a refreshing seafood main.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife & cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 medium celery stalks, finely diced
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2½ cups tomato juice (low sodium preferred)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
- 2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 medium lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Fresh hot pasta, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables – Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add celery, season with salt and pepper, and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add aromatics – Stir in garlic and tomatoes. Increase heat to medium-high and cook 4–5 minutes until tomatoes release their juices.
- Build broth – Pour in tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce if using. Season again to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce to low and cook for 10 minutes.
- Poach shrimp – Add shrimp to the simmering liquid. Cook 3–4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking.
- Finish with herbs – Remove from heat and stir in basil, parsley, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired.
- Serve – Spoon over freshly cooked pasta and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Pro Tips & Variations
- For a spicier dish, add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of white fish for variation.
- Use fresh heirloom tomatoes when in season for a richer flavor.
- Serve over rice or crusty bread instead of pasta for a lighter option.
- Deglaze the skillet with a splash of vodka before adding tomato juice for a true Bloody Mary twist.