Mexican Shrimp Cocktail - Coctel de Camarones

Cinco de Mayo - The 5th of May is not Mexican Independence Day, but it should be, and Cinco De Mayo is not an American holiday, but it should be.

Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico on the morning of May 5, 1862.  When the battles was over, many French were killed or wounded.  The Mexicans had won a great victory that kept Napoleon III from supplying the confederate rebels for another year, allowing the United States to build the greatest army the world has ever seen.

In gratitude, thousands of Mexicans crossed the border after Pearl Harbor to join the United States Armed Forces.

Mexicans never forget who their friends are, and neither do Americans.  That's why Cinco de Mayo is such a party - a party that celebrates freedom and liberty.  VIVA! el Cinco De Mayo!!

This recipe is a classic Mexican shrimp cocktail that I served as a starter for Easter.  Now it's our new favorite!  A change from the normal, boring shrimp cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cooked medium shrimp, tails removed
• 1-1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1-1/2 cups diced English cucumber
• 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1-1/2 cups spicy or regular V-8 juice
• 1 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

Preparation:

Combine shrimp, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, V-8 juice, lime juice, pepper and salt and cilantro in a large bowl.  Serve at room temperature or chilled, with lime wedges.  Serve with warm corn tortillas or cheese quesadillas for a complete meal.  Add your favorite hot sauce for a spicer cocktail.  I think a little Vodka wouldn't hurt either!

~Adapted from Eating Well