Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This shrimp ceviche is incredibly simple to make and is packed with fresh ingredients. The shrimp are “cooked” in lime juice, which gives them a firm, yet tender texture and a burst of citrusy flavor. Paired with the mild heat of jalapeños, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the freshness of cilantro, this ceviche offers a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory. It’s an ideal dish to serve at summer barbecues, parties, or as a starter for a light meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips for serving
Directions
- Begin by chopping the shrimp into bite-sized pieces. Place the shrimp in a non-reactive bowl (glass or ceramic works best).
- Pour the lime juice over the shrimp, ensuring that the shrimp is completely covered. Stir to combine and allow the shrimp to marinate in the lime juice for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. The shrimp will turn opaque as they “cook” in the lime juice.
- Once the shrimp is fully marinated, add the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Stir gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more jalapeño if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Serve the ceviche chilled, with tortilla chips on the side for dipping.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4-6 people as an appetizer or light dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30-60 minutes
- Total Time: 40-70 minutes
Variations
- Add avocado: For a creamy twist, add diced avocado to the ceviche just before serving.
- Swap shrimp for other seafood: You can use scallops, white fish, or a combination of different seafood in place of shrimp.
- Add fruit: For a tropical flavor, try adding diced mango or pineapple to the ceviche.
- Use lemon or orange juice: While lime juice is traditional, you can experiment with lemon or orange juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storing: Shrimp ceviche is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The longer it sits, the more the shrimp will absorb the lime juice, so the texture may change slightly.
- Reheating: Ceviche is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. Enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
How do I know when the shrimp are done in ceviche?
The shrimp should turn opaque and firm as they marinate in the lime juice. They’re done when they no longer appear translucent.
Can I use frozen shrimp for ceviche?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them in the ceviche. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
You should marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Any longer, and the shrimp can become too tough due to the acidity of the lime juice.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice will work as well.
Can I make ceviche ahead of time?
You can prepare the ceviche ahead of time, but it’s best to wait until just before serving to add the tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado to keep them fresh.
Is ceviche gluten-free?
Yes, ceviche is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
How spicy is this ceviche?
The heat level depends on the amount of jalapeño you add. For a milder ceviche, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds before chopping.
What can I serve with ceviche besides tortilla chips?
Ceviche pairs well with crispy tostadas, crackers, or even fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing snack.
How can I make ceviche less acidic?
If you find ceviche too acidic, try adding a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors, or mix in some diced avocado for a creamy counterpoint.
Can I use store-bought salsa in ceviche?
While homemade ceviche is ideal, you can use fresh store-bought salsa for a quicker version. Just be sure to adjust the lime juice accordingly, as salsa can sometimes have added acidity.
Conclusion
This shrimp ceviche is a perfect dish to serve on warm days or at parties, offering a refreshing burst of flavors that everyone will enjoy. With its easy preparation and vibrant, fresh ingredients, this ceviche is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves seafood. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips for the ultimate snack or appetizer!
Print
Ceviche
- Total Time: 40-70 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful appetizer, perfect for hot days or casual gatherings. Fresh shrimp are “cooked” in tangy lime juice, combined with jalapeños, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro, creating a zesty and vibrant dish. Serve it chilled with crispy tortilla chips for a healthy and delicious seafood treat that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup lime juice
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 jalapeño, minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
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Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place them in a non-reactive bowl (glass or ceramic).
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Pour lime juice over the shrimp, ensuring they are fully covered. Stir and let the shrimp marinate in the lime juice for 30 minutes to 1 hour until opaque and firm.
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After marinating, add the diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and cilantro to the shrimp. Stir gently to combine.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. For more heat, add extra jalapeño.
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Serve chilled with tortilla chips on the side.
Notes
Add avocado: For extra creaminess, add diced avocado before serving.
Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days.
Reheating: Ceviche should be served cold, so it’s not recommended to reheat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-60 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Mexican