The Ultimate Shrimp Ceviche Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Delight

How to Marinate:

1. Place the chopped shrimp in a large bowl.
2. Add 1/4 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup lime juice, ensuring that all the shrimp pieces are coated.
3. Let the shrimp soak in the citrus for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. For a deeper flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours.

The longer the shrimp sit in the citrus juice, the more tangy and flavorful they become, so feel free to adjust the marinating time based on your taste preference.

3. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients

While the shrimp are marinating, it’s time to chop up the remaining fresh ingredients. This is what gives shrimp ceviche its signature crunchy, juicy, and spicy elements.

• Tomatoes: Seed and chop 2 medium tomatoes. Fresh, ripe tomatoes add a subtle sweetness to balance the sharpness of the citrus.
• Red onion: Finely chop 1/2 small red onion. Red onions provide a pleasant crunch and sharpness that complements the other ingredients.
• Jalapeño: For a touch of heat, finely chop 1 medium jalapeño. If you prefer more spice, leave in some of the seeds, or opt for serrano peppers for a hotter version.
• Cilantro: Chop 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, including the tender stems, which are full of flavor. Cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note to the ceviche.
• Kosher salt: Add 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

4. Combine Everything and Let the Flavors Meld

Now that all the ingredients are prepped, it’s time to bring everything together.

1. Add the tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt to the marinated shrimp.
2. Toss everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
3. Cover the bowl and let the ceviche rest in the fridge for an additional 30-60 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious balance between the citrus, vegetables, and shrimp.

5. Add the Avocado Just Before Serving

One of the things that makes this shrimp ceviche so special is the addition of diced avocado right before serving. The creamy avocado provides a luxurious texture that contrasts beautifully with the sharp, tangy elements of the dish.

• Dice 1 medium avocado into small cubes and gently fold it into the ceviche just before serving.

The avocado should be added last to avoid it becoming mushy or oxidizing during the marinating process.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp ceviche is best served cold and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your ceviche presentation:

• Tostadas: Crisp tostadas are the traditional way to serve ceviche. Pile the shrimp mixture on top and enjoy the satisfying crunch with each bite.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for scooping.
• Plantain Chips: Fried plantain chips add a sweet, starchy contrast to the tangy ceviche.
• Classic Guacamole: Pair with a bowl of fresh guacamole for an extra dose of creamy avocado goodness.
• Elote Fritters: These crispy, corn-based fritters make a fun and flavorful side dish.
• Pineapple Salsa: A sweet and spicy pineapple salsa complements the zesty shrimp perfectly.

For the ultimate experience, serve with a pitcher of margaritas or your favorite summer cocktail to round out this refreshing dish.

Helpful Recipe Swaps

Looking to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or save time? Here are some helpful substitutions:

• Frozen Cooked Shrimp: To save time, use frozen cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp. Simply thaw and drain them well before marinating.
• Serrano Peppers: For a spicier kick, swap the jalapeño for serrano peppers.
• Mango or Pineapple: Add some diced mango or pineapple to the ceviche for a sweet, tropical twist.

Is Shrimp Ceviche Safe to Eat?

Since the shrimp in this recipe are poached before being marinated, you don’t have to worry about the risks associated with raw seafood. Cooking the shrimp ensures that the ceviche is safe to eat, even if you don’t have access to the freshest raw shrimp. This method provides peace of mind while still delivering all the tangy, fresh flavors of traditional ceviche.

Storage Tips

Shrimp ceviche is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp and avocado may change slightly after sitting for an extended period. For optimal flavor and freshness, we recommend eating the ceviche within a few hours of making it.

Prep and Cook Times

• Prep time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook time: 2-3 minutes (poaching the shrimp)
• Chill time: At least 1 hour
• Serves: 4-6 people

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 275
• Fat: 11.5g
• Saturated Fat: 1.6g
• Carbs: 20.3g
• Fiber: 5.2g
• Sugars: 3.3g
• Protein: 25.6g
• Sodium: 425.3mg

Shrimp ceviche is a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. The perfect balance of zesty citrus, spicy jalapeño, and creamy avocado makes it a must-have for summer gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a light lunch, or a party appetizer, shrimp ceviche is sure to be a hit. The best part?