If you’re looking for a dish that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, shrimp ceviche is the answer! This zesty, citrus-marinated shrimp dish is the ultimate warm-weather treat—perfect for backyard gatherings, poolside snacking, or simply treating yourself to something fresh and delicious. Trust me, one bite of this and you’ll feel like you’re on a beach vacation!
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Why You’ll Love Shrimp Ceviche
Fresh & Flavorful: A bright and tangy mix of shrimp, citrus, and fresh veggies makes this dish irresistible.
No Cooking Required: The citrus juice “cooks” the shrimp, so there’s no need for a stove or oven!
Healthy & Light: Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and fresh ingredients—perfect for a healthy meal or appetizer.
Quick & Easy: Ready in no time with just a few simple steps.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap in your favorite ingredients, or serve it however you like!
Ingredients in Shrimp Ceviche
Shrimp: The star of the dish! Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined.
Lime & Lemon Juice: The acidity “cooks” the shrimp while adding a bright, tangy flavor.
Red Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a mild, slightly sweet sharpness.
Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes give the ceviche a burst of color and natural sweetness.
Cilantro: A must for that authentic, fresh flavor.
Jalapeño or Serrano Pepper: For a little heat! Adjust to your spice preference.
Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch.
Avocado (Optional): Creamy avocado balances the tangy flavors perfectly.
Salt & Pepper: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp: If using raw shrimp, chop them into small pieces and soak them in lime and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15–20 minutes until they turn opaque. If using pre-cooked shrimp, simply chop and marinate for a few minutes.
Chop the Vegetables: Dice the red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and peppers into small pieces. Finely chop the cilantro.
Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the marinated shrimp, chopped vegetables, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
Chill & Marinate: Let the ceviche sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Add Avocado (Optional): Gently fold in diced avocado right before serving for a creamy touch.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve chilled with tortilla chips, tostadas, or as a topping for tacos.
How to Serve Shrimp Ceviche
With Tortilla Chips: Scoop it up with crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
On Tostadas: Spread over a crispy tostada for a classic Mexican-style ceviche.
With Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, serve in crisp lettuce leaves.
As a Taco Topping: Pile it onto warm tortillas for fresh, zesty tacos.
In a Glass with a Spoon: Serve it chilled in a glass with a spoon for a restaurant-style presentation.
Additional Tips
Use Fresh Citrus Juice: Bottled juice won’t give the same bright, fresh flavor.
Let It Marinate: For deeper flavor, let the ceviche sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Control the Spice: Add more jalapeño for heat or leave it out for a milder version.
Make It a Meal: Serve with rice, quinoa, or beans for a more filling dish.
Keep It Fresh: Eat ceviche the same day for the best taste and texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A1: Yes! Just chop and marinate for flavor instead of waiting for the shrimp to “cook” in citrus.
Q2: How long should the shrimp sit in citrus juice?
A2: Raw shrimp takes about 15–20 minutes to become fully opaque.
Q3: Can I make shrimp ceviche ahead of time?
A3: Yes, but it’s best eaten within a few hours for peak freshness.
Q4: What if I don’t like cilantro?
A4: You can leave it out or swap it for parsley for a different fresh herb flavor.
Q5: How long does shrimp ceviche last in the fridge?
A5: It’s best eaten within 24 hours, as the citrus can break down the shrimp too much over time.
Q6: Can I add other seafood?
A6: Absolutely! Try adding fish, scallops, or even crab for a mixed seafood ceviche.
Q7: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A7: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge and eat it within a day.
Q8: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A8: Yes! Just thaw completely before marinating.
Q9: How can I make this more filling?
A9: Serve with rice, avocado slices, or beans for a heartier dish.
Q10: Can I make this less acidic?
A10: You can reduce the citrus juice slightly and add a splash of olive oil for balance.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Ceviche is light, fresh, and bursting with citrusy goodness! Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or just craving something refreshing, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and enjoy every zesty bite!
Print
Shrimp Ceviche
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Enjoy a burst of tropical flavors with this refreshing shrimp ceviche! Made with a medley of fresh citrus juices, crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and a touch of spice, this dish is perfect as a light appetizer or side. Serve with tortilla chips or tostadas for a delicious and authentic experience.
Ingredients
The Ceviche:
- 1 lb shrimp (16 large), raw, wild-caught, peeled and deveined
- 7 limes, juiced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 orange, juiced
- Chili flakes, to taste
- Tajín, to taste
- 1 red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup tomato, finely diced
- 1.5 cups cucumber, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
- 1 avocado, finely chopped
- 1/4 bunch cilantro or parsley, chopped
To Serve:
- Tortilla chips or tostadas
- Hot sauce
Instructions
-
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Ensure shrimp is fresh, thawed, peeled, and deveined.
- Cut shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
-
Marinate:
- Pour the fresh lime, lemon, and orange juice over the shrimp.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the shrimp turns opaque and is no longer translucent.
-
Assemble the Ceviche:
- Once the shrimp is ready, add chili flakes, Tajín, onion, cucumber, tomato, avocado, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.
- Mix well to combine.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips or tostadas.
- Add hot sauce for extra spice, if desired.
Notes
- If you prefer, you can use pre-cooked shrimp instead of raw.
- For a milder flavor, substitute parsley for cilantro.
- Adjust Tajín and chili flakes to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg