Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp Ceviche is the ultimate combination of fresh, bright flavors and light, satisfying ingredients. The shrimp takes on a citrusy marinade, which enhances its natural sweetness while the vegetables add crunch and freshness. The spicy kick from jalapeños (optional) is balanced perfectly by the tang of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro. It’s a dish that feels both light and indulgent, perfect for appetizers or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes. Plus, it’s quick to make, requiring only a little prep time and minimal cooking—just the way a summer dish should be!
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1–2 jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using cooked shrimp, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. If using raw shrimp, marinate in lime juice for several hours until it turns opaque.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and jalapeños (if using).
- Mix the Ceviche: Add the chopped shrimp to the vegetable mixture. Pour the lime juice over the ingredients and gently stir everything together. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let It Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the shrimp to marinate and absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the ceviche cold, either in individual bowls or alongside tortilla chips, tostadas, or as a topping for tacos.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinate time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Add more spice: If you like heat, increase the number of jalapeños or use a serrano pepper for a spicier version.
- Add avocado: For a creamy element, try adding diced avocado to the ceviche just before serving.
- Add fruit: Mango or pineapple can add a sweet contrast to the citrusy flavors.
- Use other seafood: Swap out shrimp for other seafood like scallops or white fish, which are also delicious in ceviche.
Storage/Reheating
Shrimp Ceviche is best when served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lime juice will continue to “cook” the shrimp, so the flavor might become more intense over time. However, avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of the shrimp can change after being frozen and thawed.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the shrimp for ceviche?
For cooked shrimp, 30 minutes is enough for marinating. For raw shrimp, marinate in lime juice for at least 2-3 hours, or until the shrimp turns opaque.
Can I use frozen shrimp for ceviche?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as it is properly thawed. Make sure the shrimp is fresh and of high quality for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make shrimp ceviche in advance?
You can make it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. However, it’s best when fresh as the shrimp might continue to “cook” in the lime juice and change in texture.
What can I serve with shrimp ceviche?
Shrimp Ceviche can be served with tortilla chips, tostadas, or even as a topping for tacos. You can also enjoy it as an appetizer on its own.
How do I know when the shrimp is “cooked” in ceviche?
If using raw shrimp, it will become opaque and firm once it has marinated in the lime juice for a few hours, indicating that it is “cooked.”
Can I use other citrus juices instead of lime?
While lime is traditional, you can use lemon or even orange juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I store leftover ceviche?
Store any leftover ceviche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best eaten fresh, though.
Can I add more vegetables to the ceviche?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or celery to suit your taste.
Is shrimp ceviche spicy?
It can be if you add jalapeños or serrano peppers, but the heat is optional. You can always adjust the level of spice to your preference.
Can I use raw shrimp for ceviche?
Yes, raw shrimp is often used for ceviche. Just make sure it is fully marinated in lime juice until it turns opaque to achieve the proper texture.
Conclusion
Shrimp Ceviche is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer, a refreshing summer dish, or something to complement your taco night, this ceviche is sure to impress. With its balance of citrusy brightness, crunchy vegetables, and the option to make it as spicy as you like, it’s a dish that everyone will love!
Shrimp Ceviche
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Shrimp Ceviche is a zesty and refreshing seafood dish made with tender shrimp, fresh citrus, crunchy vegetables, and vibrant herbs. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking, and is perfect for casual gatherings or as a topping for tacos.
Ingredients
1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1–2 jalapeños, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
1/2 cup lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using cooked shrimp, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. If using raw shrimp, marinate in lime juice for several hours until it turns opaque.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and jalapeños (if using).
- Mix the Ceviche: Add the chopped shrimp to the vegetable mixture. Pour the lime juice over the ingredients and gently stir everything together. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let It Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the shrimp to marinate and absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the ceviche cold, either in individual bowls or alongside tortilla chips, tostadas, or as a topping for tacos.
Notes
If you like more heat, increase the number of jalapeños or use a serrano pepper for extra spiciness.
For a creamy twist, try adding diced avocado to the ceviche just before serving.
Fruits like mango or pineapple can be added for a sweet contrast to the citrusy flavors.
Feel free to swap shrimp for other seafood like scallops or white fish for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
