If you are craving a refreshing, vibrant dish that bursts with fresh flavors, this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful no-cook appetizer that combines tender cooked shrimp with tangy lime juice, crisp vegetables, and just the right amount of heat from jalapeño. Each bite feels like a cool ocean breeze with a zesty Latin American twist, making it perfect for hot days or whenever you want a light yet satisfying treat. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, creating an irresistible balance of texture and flavor you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add a unique texture, flavor, or color that comes together harmoniously in the final dish.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped: The star of the dish, providing protein and a tender, slightly sweet bite.
- 1 cup fresh lime juice: Adds a tangy brightness that “cooks” the shrimp and ties all the flavors together.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Offers juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup diced English cucumber: Brings a cool, crisp texture that balances the acidity.
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion: Provides a mild sharpness and crunch without overpowering the dish.
- 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and minced: Gives a gentle kick of heat, adjustable to your spice preference.
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro: Adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens every bite.
- 1 avocado, diced: Creates a creamy element that softens the tangy and spicy edges.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds silkiness and rounds out the texture.
- Optional tortilla chips for serving: Perfect for scooping up the ceviche, adding crunch and a bit of indulgence.
How to Make Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the shrimp
Start by combining the chopped cooked shrimp with the fresh lime juice in a medium bowl. Let the shrimp soak for about 10 minutes. This acid bath infuses the shrimp with bright citrus flavor and lightly “cooks” them further while making them tender and bursting with zest.
Step 2: Mix in the vegetables and herbs
Once your shrimp have marinated, add the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the freshness and crunchiness meld with the citrusy shrimp without bruising the delicate avocado later on.
Step 3: Season and add olive oil
Next, season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, then drizzle in the olive oil. The olive oil adds a subtle richness and helps to balance the acidity of the lime juice, rounding out the overall flavor beautifully. Give everything a gentle toss to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Step 4: Fold in diced avocado just before serving
To maintain the creamy, soft texture and prevent browning, fold in the diced avocado right before serving. The avocado adds a luscious layer to the ceviche that contrasts wonderfully with the crisp veggies and zesty shrimp. Now your shrimp ceviche is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like extra cilantro leaves, thin slices of jalapeño for a visual pop, or a light sprinkle of sea salt elevate the presentation and flavor. A wedge of lime on the side invites guests to add more citrus tang if they desire.
Side Dishes
This Shrimp Ceviche Recipe pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips for scooping or atop tostadas for a crunchy contrast. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a chilled quinoa salad to keep the meal light and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, spoon the ceviche into small, clear glasses or mini martini glasses for elegant single servings. You can also stuff it inside diced avocados or use endive leaves as “boats” for a gluten-free, bite-sized option that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the ceviche in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the avocado separate if possible, as it can brown and lose its fresh appearance. When ready to eat, fold in the avocado freshly diced for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing shrimp ceviche is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and avocado will become mushy, and the texture of the shrimp will degrade. This dish is best enjoyed fresh within a day or two of preparation.
Reheating
This Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is designed to be enjoyed cold. Reheating will compromise the delicate textures and fresh flavors, so it’s best served straight from the fridge, giving you that vibrant, refreshing sensation every time.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this ceviche?
Because this recipe relies on cooked shrimp, using raw shrimp is not recommended unless you’re confident in your food safety methods. The lime juice does not fully “cook” raw shrimp safely, so pre-cooked shrimp is best.
How spicy is this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe?
The recipe has a mild heat level from the jalapeño, which can be easily adjusted by using more or less or by adding hot sauce. It’s perfect for those who like just a hint of spice without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Can I prepare this ceviche ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix everything except for the avocado a few hours ahead of time. Just add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning and maintain a fresh, vibrant appearance and texture.
What can I substitute for lime juice if I don’t have fresh limes?
Fresh lime juice really makes a difference here, but if you must, lemon juice can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind lemon juice has a slightly different flavor profile but still provides the acidity needed to flavor the shrimp.
Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?
Absolutely! This Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an excellent option for a variety of dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to brighten up a day, impress guests, or satisfy a craving for something fresh and zesty. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and full of healthy ingredients that feel indulgent without any fuss. I encourage you to try it out—once you do, it will likely become a go-to appetizer or light meal in your kitchen rotation!
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Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing Latin American appetizer featuring tender cooked shrimp marinated in fresh lime juice and combined with crisp vegetables and avocado. Quick to prepare with no cooking required, it’s perfect for a light, healthy starter or a flavorful snack served chilled with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced English cucumber
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Additional
- 1 avocado, diced
- Optional: tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: Combine the chopped cooked shrimp with the fresh lime juice in a medium bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the shrimp to absorb the citrus flavor and chill.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in the diced tomatoes, English cucumber, red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro gently to mix without mashing the ingredients.
- Season the Mixture: Add salt, black pepper, and olive oil to the bowl, then mix again to incorporate all flavors evenly throughout the ceviche.
- Add Avocado Before Serving: Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado carefully to prevent it from browning and to maintain its texture.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the ceviche and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled with optional tortilla chips or spoon into small cups for individual servings.
Notes
- Use cooked shrimp for safety and to speed up preparation.
- Add more jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce for increased spiciness.
- Add avocado only before serving to prevent discoloration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Latin American
