Wash the cucumber, halve lengthwise and remove seeds. Cut cucumber into small cubes. Clean, wash and shake the salad dry. Cut into strips except for a few leaves. Drain asparagus and cut into pieces. Rinse crabs and pat dry
Whip the cream until semi-stiff. Mix ketchup, mayonnaise and cognac. Fold in the cream. Season sauce with salt and pepper
Mix prepared ingredients and sauce loosely. Line four cocktail glasses with remaining salad leaves and pour in the shrimp cocktail. Garnish with shrimps and basil if desired
Drink: cool champagne