Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups Recipe

"Prawn Cocktail in a Lettuce Cup! I got this recipe from Sunrise television programme, and it makes for such a lovely summer dish. I think you could add some finely chopped chilli to this recipe if you wanted more heat, but it is wonderful as is. I garnished with just a little dob of caviar, which made for a beautiful looking dish."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Chop the prawns roughly, then mix with the cucumber and shallots.

Step 2

Combine the aioli, ketchup, Tabasco, lemon juice and smoked paprika in a small bowl, then toss with the prawn mixture.

Step 3

Separate small cos lettuce leaves and trim the ends neatly.

Step 4

Spoon the prawn salad on top, then scatter with pistachios and baby herbs.

Step 5

Top with a little dob of caviar if using, and serve.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.

Tips for selecting ingredients

When selecting the prawns, make sure to choose cooked, peeled and de-veined ones for the best flavor.
The Lebanese cucumber is preferred for this recipe, as it has a sweeter flavor than other varieties.

Ingredient substitutions

Substitute shrimp for cooked crab meat - The benefit of this substitution is that it adds a more delicate flavor and texture to the dish, while still providing a seafood-based protein. The thinking behind this substitution is that crab meat will provide a more subtle flavor than shrimp, and is also a more luxurious ingredient.
Substitute cucumber for jicama - The benefit of this substitution is that jicama will add a crunchy texture to the dish, while still providing a vegetable-based source of nutrition. The thinking behind this substitution is that jicama has a mild flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients, and the crunchy texture will provide a nice contrast to the other softer ingredients.

Variations

Curry Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups Replace the aioli, ketchup, Tabasco, lemon juice and smoked paprika with 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix the curry powder mixture with the prawn mixture, then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

Serve with

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled Corn on the Cob is the perfect side dish to accompany the Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups. The smoky flavor of the grilled corn complements the spicy prawn salad, and the sweetness of the corn complements the tangy flavors of the ketchup and aioli. Plus, it's an easy and delicious way to add some extra vegetables to your meal!

Crispy Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy Baked Potato Wedges are the perfect accompaniment to the Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups. They provide a crunchy texture that contrasts with the softness of the prawn salad, and the potatoes are lightly seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. The potatoes also provide a hearty and satisfying side dish that will fill you up without overpowering the other flavors of the meal.

FAQ

Q: How long will the Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups last in the fridge?

A: The Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups will last up to 3 days in the fridge, as long as they are stored in an airtight container.

Q: How should I serve the Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups?

A: The Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups should be served chilled or at room temperature. They can be served as a starter or as part of a larger meal.

Fun facts:

This Prawn Cocktail Lettuce Cups recipe was inspired by a recipe from the Sunrise television programme.

The Prawn Cocktail was one of the most popular dishes of the 1970s, and was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth II, who served it at many of her state banquets.