Delicate Shrimp Cocktail

It's best to use all ingredients well chilled so the cream stays especially fresh.

Add the lemon juice gradually so the sauce doesn't become too sour.

Set aside a few chive stems for garnishing.

Well-drained shrimp won't water down the cream – if needed, pat dry briefly on kitchen paper.

For more flavor, let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes.

The drier the lettuce, the better the cocktail will hold up in the glasses.

Using a spoon or piping bag makes portioning the cream particularly neat.

Add lemon wedges only shortly before serving so the lettuce doesn't collapse.