As the countdown to the New Year begins, it’s time to plan a celebration that sparkles with flavor and creativity. One delightful way to impress your guests is with Shrimp Cocktail Shooters—an elegant and fun appetizer that perfectly captures the festive spirit of the occasion.
These individual servings of succulent shrimp, zesty cocktail sauce, and fresh garnishes not only look stunning but also offer a delicious burst of flavor in every sip. Perfect for toasting to new beginnings, these shooters are sure to be a hit at your New Year’s Eve gathering!

What You’ll Need
- Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined, cooked)
- Tomato juice or bloody mary mix
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, for garnish)
- Shot glasses or small cups
- Optional: diced avocado, cucumber, or other fresh veggies for added flavor and texture

Helpful Tips
- Choose Quality Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for high-quality, fresh shrimp. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before assembling your shooters. This will ensure that they stay juicy and flavorful.
- Prep Ahead of Time: To make your New Year’s Eve preparations easier, consider prepping the shrimp and cocktail sauce in advance. You can assemble the shooters just before your guests arrive, allowing you to enjoy the celebration without being stuck in the kitchen.
- Get Creative with Presentation: Elevate the visual appeal of your shrimp cocktail shooters by layering the ingredients in the glasses. Start with a layer of cocktail sauce, followed by shrimp, and finish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Consider adding a small piece of lemon or lime on the rim of the glass for an extra pop of color and flavor.
With these Shrimp Cocktail Shooters, you’ll have a sophisticated and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year. Cheers to a fabulous celebration filled with good food, great company, and unforgettable memories!

Fancy Shrimp Cocktail Shooter
Ingredients
- 24 medium cooked shrimp already cleaned
- 16 ounces tomato juice
- 4 ounces vodka optional
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill, for garnish
- Shot glasses or small cups
Instructions
- Mix together the tomato juice and vodka (if using). You can also use bloody mary mix, if preferred. If you want it to be spicy, add some hot sauce to the mix. Taste and adjust to your liking.
- Add a few pieces of ice to each glass. Pour in the juice (you can wait until just before serving to do this).
- Hang 2 shrimps over the edge of the glass. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Laura is the founder and editor of the travel blogs Savored Sips and Savored Journeys. She is dedicated to sharing the best information about drinks found around the world.