Poached Shrimp with Bay Leaves and Lemon

A subtly flavored classic shrimp cocktail that is great for parties or get-togethers!

Ingredients

• 12 cups water
• 1 1/2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 6 whole black peppercorns
• 6 bay leaves
• 1 celery stalk, halved
• 1 carrot, halved
• 2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instruction

1. Combine first 7 ingredients in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 15 minutes. Add shrimp; cook 3 minutes. Drain shrimp and place in a shallow dish.
2. Combine lemon rind and remaining ingredients. Add to warm shrimp mixture; toss well. Cover and chill until ready to serve.