As the warm sun casts golden rays on my patio, I find myself craving something bright and refreshing—a dish that embodies the very essence of summer. That’s when I whip out this delightful Shrimp Ceviche, which always takes center stage at gatherings. With the zesty burst of lime, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, every bite transports me to sandy beaches and ocean breezes.
Quick to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect antidote to those same old weeknight meals or uninspiring takeout options. Whether served as a light appetizer or a vibrant side to your main dish, this ceviche is a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into this simple yet sensational recipe that captures the heart of summertime bliss!
Why is Shrimp Ceviche a Must-Try?
Freshness that shines through every ingredient; bright lime and crisp cucumbers create a delightful harmony.
Quick Preparation means you can have a stunning dish on the table in under 30 minutes, leaving you with more time to enjoy your day.
Customizable Flavors let you swap shrimp for scallops or add tropical fruits like mango for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleaser that appeals to both seafood lovers and those seeking a healthy, light meal—perfect for gatherings!
Whether enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or light meal, this Shrimp Ceviche elevates any occasion. Dive in and savor the taste of summer!
Shrimp Ceviche Ingredients
For the Ceviche
• Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count) for the best texture; thaw if frozen.
• Avocado – Adds creaminess and richness; substitute with diced mango for a tropical twist.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Provides sweetness and acidity; can use diced firm tomatoes as a replacement.
• Green Onions – Adds a mild onion flavor; chives can serve as a similar substitute.
• Jalapeno – Optional for a kick of heat; omit for a milder flavor or use bell pepper for crunch.
• Lime Juice – Essential acidity to cure the shrimp; freshly squeezed is preferred for the best flavor.
• Cilantro – Delivers a fresh herbaceous note; parsley can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all the dish’s flavors; sea salt is a great alternative to use.
For Serving
• Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping and adds a lovely crunch; consider corn chips or cucumber slices for a gluten-free option.
Enjoy preparing this Shrimp Ceviche, a refreshing summer dish that is sure to impress!
How to Make Shrimp Ceviche
- Prepare the Shrimp: If you’re using raw shrimp, place them in a bowl and cover with lime juice for about 20 minutes. This will transform them into a beautiful opaque pink. If using cooked shrimp, simply thaw and chop them into small pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the chopped shrimp, diced avocado, quartered cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, and minced jalapeno (if using). Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle chopped cilantro, and add kosher salt for seasoning.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ceviche for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delightful taste sensation.
- Serve: After chilling, taste your ceviche and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Serve the vibrant mixture with crispy tortilla chips for the perfect crunch.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra cilantro before serving for fresh flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Ceviche are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the ceviche base—mixing the shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, green onions, jalapeno, and lime juice—up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to keep the avocado separate or add it just before serving to prevent browning. Once combined, cover tightly and refrigerate for better flavor melding. For optimal freshness, consume within 1 day if using raw shrimp or up to 2 days with cooked shrimp for the best quality. When ready to serve, simply give the ceviche a gentle stir, taste for seasoning adjustments, and pair with crispy tortilla chips for an effortless, vibrant meal!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Ceviche
- Fridge: Store ceviche made with cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For the best flavor, consume it within 24 hours if made with raw shrimp.
- Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp ceviche, as the texture may suffer. Fresh ingredients like avocado and tomatoes don’t hold up well to freezing and may become mushy.
- Reheating: Ceviche is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Just serve straight out of the fridge with crispy tortilla chips for maximum enjoyment!
- Serving Freshness: Always make sure to taste and adjust seasonings after storing, as flavors may mellow during refrigeration. Enjoy your fresh Shrimp Ceviche for a delightful taste experience!
Shrimp Ceviche Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with the ingredients in this recipe, tailoring each bite to your taste buds’ desires.
- Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or a mix of seafood, like crab and fish, for a unique flavor. The lively blend of textures makes it sensational.
- Crunchy Cucumber: Add diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch or even red onion for a sharper taste. Each bite will bring a delightful crispiness.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced pineapple or mango to elevate the sweetness, adding layers of fruity flavor that dance on your palate.
- Herb Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, swap it with fresh parsley or mint for a different herbal profile that still brings freshness.
- Heat Adjustment: Omit the jalapeno for a milder version, or introduce serrano peppers for an even spicier kick if you crave more heat.
- Zesty Marinades: Marinate the shrimp in other citrus juices like grapefruit or orange for a vibrant flavor boost that summons sun-kissed days.
- Nutty Finish: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch and an unexpected nutty flavor in your ceviche.
- Sweetness Bomb: Mix in some chopped fresh fruits like strawberries or kiwi to add a pop of unexpected sweetness and tartness that delights.
What to Serve with Shrimp Ceviche?
Pair your vibrant shrimp ceviche with complementary dishes that enhance its bold flavors and refreshing textures.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping, these add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the ceviche’s silky avocado and juicy shrimp.
- Refreshing Guacamole: The creamy texture and mild flavors of guacamole harmonize with the zesty ceviche, creating a luscious pairing that guests will love.
- Zesty Margarita: A classic choice! The citrusy notes of a margarita elevate the refreshing experience of your ceviche, bringing a festive feel to your table.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc works wonderfully, as its acidity complements the lime and amplifies the ceviche’s flavor profile.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a salad with cucumbers and tomatoes mirrors the ceviche’s fresh ingredients while adding a satisfying texture and heartiness.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn balances the ceviche’s acidity, making this pairing an ideal side for summer gatherings!
Let your meal bloom with these delightful accompaniments that perfect the summer vibes.
Expert Tips for Shrimp Ceviche
- Quality Shrimp: Always choose high-quality, fresh shrimp, especially if using raw. This reduces the risk of food safety issues and enhances flavor.
- Lime Juice Matters: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the best taste and effectiveness in curing the shrimp. Bottled can work, but fresh is best!
- Heat Control: Adjust jalapeno for desired spice levels. Start with a small amount and taste test as you go to avoid overwhelming heat.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the ceviche to chill for at least 20 minutes—this step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld harmoniously together.
- Customize with Care: Feel free to swap in different veggies or proteins, but keep in mind the balance of flavors when making substitutions in your shrimp ceviche.
Shrimp Ceviche Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for ceviche?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for high-quality, peeled, and deveined shrimp, preferably 16/20 or 21/25 count for the best texture. If using raw shrimp, check for freshness by making sure they have a mild scent and a firm, glossy appearance. If they have dark spots or an off odor, it’s best to skip them.
How should I store leftover shrimp ceviche?
Great question! If you’ve made your ceviche with cooked shrimp, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, if made with raw shrimp, it’s best to consume it within 24 hours for optimal fresh flavor and safety. Always keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze shrimp ceviche?
Very! It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp ceviche as the dish relies on fresh ingredients like shrimp, avocado, and tomatoes that can become mushy when thawed. If you must, freeze the shrimp separately, then prepare fresh toppings and mix them in after thawing for the best texture.
What should I do if my ceviche is too salty?
Don’t fret! If your ceviche turns out saltier than desired, simply add more diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, or some lime juice to balance it out. Stir in these ingredients incrementally until it reaches the flavor profile you’re aiming for. Taste along the way for adjustments!
Can I make shrimp ceviche ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients earlier in the day, but it’s best to combine them and allow the ceviche to chill for about 20 minutes before serving. If you need to store it for a longer duration, keep the avocado aside and add it just before serving to prevent browning.
Zesty Shrimp Ceviche: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Shrimp: If you're using raw shrimp, place them in a bowl and cover with lime juice for about 20 minutes. If using cooked shrimp, simply thaw and chop them into small pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the chopped shrimp, diced avocado, quartered cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, and minced jalapeno (if using). Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle chopped cilantro, and add kosher salt for seasoning.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ceviche for at least 20 minutes.
- Serve: After chilling, taste your ceviche and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Serve the vibrant mixture with crispy tortilla chips.