This is one of those starters that never goes out of style. It doesn’t try too hard — it just is delicious.
Nigella’s version of the classic British prawn cocktail brings a little freshness, a little retro charm, and a whole lot of creamy, tangy goodness. I’ve made this on lazy summer days, served in wine glasses with crusty bread on the side, and it always disappears quickly. The crisp lettuce, juicy prawns, creamy avocado, and zingy Marie Rose sauce — it’s the perfect balance between light and luxurious.
And honestly? It takes almost no effort. If you can chop and stir, you can make this. No cooking. Just layering. And tasting. And maybe licking the spoon.
Ingredients List
- 400g cooked and peeled prawns
→ Big, juicy ones if you can. And don’t skip the defrost if using frozen. - 1 small iceberg lettuce, finely shredded
→ For that classic crunch. It’s retro for a reason. - 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
→ Cherry tomatoes work well too. - 1 cucumber, chopped into small pieces
→ Deseed it if it’s especially watery. - 1 ripe avocado, diced
→ Slightly soft, but not mushy. Like a good handshake. - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
→ Sharp but sweet. Soak in cold water if it’s too strong.
For the Sauce:
- 150ml mayonnaise
→ Full fat is best — this is not the time to go light. - 2 tbsp ketchup
→ Classic. Don’t question it. - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
→ Adds depth and a bit of umami. - 1–2 dashes Tabasco sauce
→ Optional, but that little kick is lovely.
How to Make It
- Serve cold, topped with a wedge of lemon or a sprig of parsley, if you’re feeling fancy.
- Grab a big bowl. Add your prawns, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire, and Tabasco. Taste as you go — some like it spicier, some like it sweeter.
- Pour the sauce over the salad and mix gently. Don’t squish the avocado — a light hand is your friend here.
- Spoon into glasses or small bowls. (If you’re going full 70s, martini glasses are quite fun.)
- Chill for 30 minutes — this helps the flavours come together and keeps it fresh.
Common Mistakes
Why are my prawns rubbery?
They were likely overcooked — use prawns that are just pink and firm, and avoid boiling them again if they’re already cooked.
Why is my onion too sharp?
Soak chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using. It softens the flavour beautifully.
Why is the sauce too thick?
Add a splash of lemon juice or a touch more mayo to loosen it up.
Can I make it spicier?
Of course — Tabasco, cayenne, or even a little horseradish will give it a fiery twist.
Storage Tips
Fridge:
Store the assembled prawn cocktail in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s best fresh, but still good the next day.
Freezer:
Not recommended — prawns, avocado, and mayo don’t defrost well. Save this one for fridge life only.
Can I reheat it?
Nope — this is strictly a cold dish. If you try to heat it, the prawns will turn chewy and sad, and the sauce will separate.
What to Serve It With
A chilled glass of white wine or rosé — the kind that makes your shoulders drop.
Crusty bread or garlic bread — for soaking up that glorious sauce.
A light green salad — something peppery like rocket works well.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes — make it 1–2 days in advance and store in the fridge.
How do I stop the avocado going brown?
Toss it in a little lemon or lime juice as soon as you cut it. Also, assemble close to serving time if you can.
Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes — just thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding.
Can I use yogurt instead of mayo?
You can, but it won’t be as rich or creamy. A 50/50 mix of mayo and Greek yogurt is a nice compromise.
Try More Nigella Recipes:
Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
- Calories: 275
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Nigella Lawson Prawn Cocktail
Description
Nigella Lawson Prawn Cocktail is made with cooked and peeled prawns, iceberg lettuce, ripe tomatoes, cucumber, ripe avocado, and red onion. This British Nigella Lawson’s Prawn Cocktail recipe creates a tangy and refreshing starter that takes about 50 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine prawns, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire, and Tabasco until smooth.
- Pour sauce over prawn mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Divide into small bowls or glasses.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with parsley or lemon wedge if desired.