Classic Australian Prawn Cocktail
A beloved retro Australian starter, this Prawn Cocktail features succulent prawns coated in a creamy, tangy Marie Rose sauce, served on a bed of crisp lettuce. A true 1970s classic that remains a popular choice for its nostalgic charm and refreshing taste.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400g Cooked prawns
- 100g Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Tomato sauce (ketchup)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 4 large leaves Iceberg lettuce
- pinch Paprika
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the prawns: If not already peeled, carefully peel the cooked prawns, ensuring to leave the tails intact. This not only looks attractive but also provides a convenient handle for eating. Rinse them briefly under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the Marie Rose sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, tomato sauce (ketchup), Worcestershire sauce, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently with a spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated and the sauce is a uniform pinkish-orange colour. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – you might want a touch more lemon for tang or Worcestershire for depth.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare the lettuce: Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and dry them very well. This is crucial for a crisp texture. Shred the lettuce leaves finely into thin ribbons or chop them into bite-sized pieces. Divide the shredded lettuce evenly among four chilled serving glasses or small bowls, creating a crisp bed for the prawns.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Assemble the cocktail: Arrange the prepared prawns artfully on top of the shredded lettuce in each serving dish. You can place them in a mound or fan them out slightly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Add the sauce and garnish: Spoon a generous amount of the Marie Rose sauce over the prawns, ensuring they are well coated. Finish by lightly dusting the top with a pinch of paprika for a touch of colour and subtle flavour. Serve immediately while chilled.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic 1970s-80s vibe, serve in classic cocktail glasses.
- ✓The key to a great prawn cocktail is using the freshest, highest-quality prawns you can find.
- ✓Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before assembling for an extra-refreshing touch.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced avocado to the lettuce base for a creamy, rich addition.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of Tabasco sauce to the Marie Rose sauce.
- Serve with a side of extra cocktail sauce for dipping.