Shrimp Cocktail

1.Prepare the Shrimp: Bring the water, kosher salt, and lemon halves to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for 2-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque pink and curled into a 'C' shape. Do not overcook.

2.Chill the Shrimp: Immediately drain the cooked shrimp and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Allow the shrimp to chill completely for at least 15 minutes.

3.Make the Cocktail Sauce: While the shrimp chills, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well until thoroughly combined.

4.Adjust and Chill Sauce: Taste the cocktail sauce and adjust the horseradish, lemon juice, or hot sauce according to your preference. Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and chill thoroughly.

5.Assemble and Serve: Drain the chilled shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange the shrimp around the rim of a serving dish or individual cocktail glasses, hanging the tails over the edge. Place the chilled cocktail sauce in a small bowl in the center.

6.Garnish and Present: Garnish the dish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve immediately as a chilled appetizer.