Author: This Vegan Shrimp Cocktail is ready in 5 minutes, no cooking needed, and made with just a handful of simple ingredients. It's a fun, retro-inspired recipe that's surprisingly satisfying and perfect for hot weather snacking.
I almost didn't post this vegan shrimp cocktail recipe because it's so simple… but I make it at least once a week, and I'm fully obsessed. It's tangy, briny, and cool, with that classic cocktail sauce kick. Plus, it's super affordable, no-cook, takes less than 5 minutes to whip up, and naturally low in calories, making it a go-to when I want something light but crave-worthy. If you're into vegan seafood vibes, you'll love this. You can also check out my Coconut Crusted Vegan Shrimp (made with soy curls!) or browse the full vegan seafood recipes on the blog.
Simple Ingredients:
- Hearts of palm: This is our shrimp stand-in! Look for whole hearts of palm in a can or jar. Chill them first for the most shrimp-like experience (I store my cans in the fridge), then drain and pat dry.
- For that classic shrimp cocktail sauce: Ketchup, horseradish, lemon, hot sauce, and salt! When shopping for prepared horseradish, make sure it's vegan, as some brands sneak in dairy or egg.
- Optional seasonings: An extra squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of salt are my favorite. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for color, or kelp granules or vegan fish sauce if you want a subtle ocean-y vibe.
How to Make Vegan Shrimp Cocktail:
- Slice the hearts of palm
Halve or quarter lengthwise for dippable sticks.
- Stir the cocktail sauce
Mix the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce, and salt in a small bowl.
- Assemble and serve
Arrange the hearts of palm on a plate or in a cocktail glass. Add the sauce on the side for dipping. I like to finish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of paprika or kelp granules. Enjoy your vegan shrimp cocktail!
🌱 Sustainability Note: If you're concerned about the sustainability of hearts of palm, rest assured that unlike some palm oils, most canned varieties of this veggie come from farmed peach palms, which are a sustainable and eco-friendly option. Just check with the brand you are purchasing to be sure.
Why You'll Love This Vegan Shrimp Cocktail:
- Takes just 5 minutes to make
- No cooking or heating required
- Perfect for summer snacking or entertaining
- Low calorie but still super satisfying
- Fun and nostalgic
- Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free
More fancy vegan appetizers:
- Vegan Mini Quiche
- Caprese Salad with homemade vegan bocconcini
- Easy Vegan Cheddar Biscuits
- Vegan Calamari
- Stuffed Mushrooms
- Vegan Baked Brie Dip
- Mushroom & Walnut Pâté
If you try this Vegan Shrimp Cocktail, let us know by leaving a comment, rating it, and don't forget to tag @itdoesnttastelikechicken on Instagram. You can also pin this recipe on Pinterest to save it for later!
Bon appetegan!
Sam Turnbull.
(click stars to vote)
Vegan Shrimp Cocktail (Hearts of Palm Magic!)
Servings: (or 1 if you're me and no one's watching)
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Ingredients
For the "shrimp":
- 1 can (14 oz / 398 mL) whole hearts of palm, chilled, drained, and patted dry
- Optional: squeeze of lemon juice + pinch of salt
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons kelp granules or a splash of vegan fish sauce, for an ocean-y flavor
- Optional: pinch of sweet or smoked paprika, for color
For the cocktail sauce:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 - 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, (I go for 2 for some heat! Check that it's vegan)
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Franks Red Hot, Tabasco, or similar hot sauce, (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prep the hearts of palm: Slice the hearts of palm in half lengthwise, or into quarters if they're large.
- Make the cocktail sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the sliced hearts of palm on a serving plate or in a classic cocktail glass. Serve with the cocktail sauce on the side for dipping. For bonus flavor, I like to squeeze a little lemon over the top and sprinkle with salt and a touch of paprika. Sometimes I add kelp granules if I want a sea-kissed vibe. Enjoy!
amy says
I made these for a party. They were a big hit!
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
Yay!! I’m so happy they were a hit at the party 😄 Thank you so much for making them, Amy!!
Olga says
Fist time I tried this recipe I couldn’t believe how easy and tasty it was! One of my regular go tos.
Sam Turnbull @ It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken says
So happy this became a go-to for you, Olga! 😊