If you are craving a bright, fresh, and zesty appetizer that bursts with flavor, this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is absolutely perfect. It’s a refreshingly tangy dish where plump cooked shrimp swim in vibrant lime juice, mingled with crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and a touch of spicy jalapeño. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just want a quick, no-cook meal that tastes like a celebration, this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe combines simple ingredients to create complex layers of taste and texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe plays a crucial role in building its refreshing, balanced flavor and colorful appeal. The blend of fresh vegetables, citrus, and herbs complements the tender shrimp perfectly, making this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped: Use fresh or thawed cooked shrimp for the best juicy texture without the fuss of cooking.
- 1 cup fresh lime juice: The citrus backbone that brightens everything and “cooks” the shrimp further with acidity.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds juicy sweetness and a vibrant red contrast.
- 1 cup diced English cucumber: Provides crunch and a cooling quality to balance the heat.
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion: Offers a sharp bite that complements the acidity.
- 1 fresh jalapeño seeded and minced: Gives that gentle warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro: Infuses a fresh, herbal aroma that elevates the savory mix.
- 1 avocado diced: Brings creamy richness for a luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances acidity and enriches the texture.
- Optional tortilla chips for serving: Perfect for scooping and adding extra crunch.
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 it sit for about 10 minutes so the shrimp can soak up the bright citrus flavor, which helps meld the dish together beautifully. This quick “marinade” is where the magic starts, infusing the shrimp with that signature ceviche zest.
Step 2: Add the Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
Next, gently fold in the diced tomatoes, crisp cucumber, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Each addition brings a unique element to the dish — the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, cooling crunch from cucumbers, sharp onion kick, subtle heat from jalapeño, and an herbal lift from the cilantro.
Step 3: Season and Drizzle with Olive Oil
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, then drizzle the olive oil over everything. This step helps balance the tartness of the lime juice and softens the overall flavor, making the ceviche velvety and smooth on the palate.
Step 4: Fold in the Avocado
Carefully fold in the diced avocado right before serving to avoid browning and to add that creamy, buttery texture that perfectly rounds out the tangy and crisp ingredients. Taste again and adjust seasoning if needed — it’s all about balancing those fresh flavors to your liking!
How to Serve Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprig of fresh cilantro or a thin lime wedge not only make your Shrimp Ceviche Recipe look stunning but also add an extra burst of color and aroma right before serving. For a touch of sophistication, sprinkle finely chopped red chili or a few tiny dots of hot sauce on top.
Side Dishes
This ceviche makes the perfect light appetizer or side dish alongside warm tortilla chips for scooping. It also pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with lime. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled corn or a leafy green salad with avocado and mango for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the Shrimp Ceviche Recipe in individual small cups or hollowed-out cucumber boats for easy, elegant bites. You can also layer it in clear glasses with alternating layers of avocado or tomatoes for a visually stunning effect. Don’t be afraid to get creative — this dish is as fun to eat as it is to assemble!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover shrimp ceviche refrigerated in an airtight container. It’s best eaten within one to two days to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures. Remember to add avocado only when you’re ready to serve if possible, to maintain its bright green color and creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing ceviche is generally not recommended since the fresh vegetables and avocado will become mushy and watery once thawed. Plus, freezing alters the delicate textures and brightness that make this dish so enjoyable.
Reheating
Ceviche is meant to be served chilled, so it should not be reheated. Instead, give it a gentle stir and add fresh lime juice or a pinch of salt if you feel the flavor has mellowed during storage.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe?
This version uses cooked shrimp for safety and convenience, especially if you’re short on time. Traditional ceviche often uses raw fish cured in citrus juice, but when using shrimp, cooking first ensures a pleasing texture and avoids health risks.
How spicy is this ceviche?
The heat level is mild and gentle, thanks to the seeded jalapeño. You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more jalapeño seeds or a splash of your favorite hot sauce according to your preference.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prepare most of the shrimp ceviche a few hours early, but fold in the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent discoloration. The flavors actually develop nicely with a bit of resting time.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
If you don’t have fresh limes, fresh lemon juice can be a decent substitute, although it will slightly change the flavor profile. Avoid bottled citrus juices as they tend to be less fresh and can alter the taste of your ceviche.
Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes, this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic appetizer that suits various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Shrimp Ceviche Recipe a try because it is one of those effortless dishes that feels like a celebration in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, filled with fresh vibrant flavors, and perfect for light entertaining or a healthy snack. Once you experience how easy and delicious this ceviche is, it might just become your go-to seafood appetizer for every occasion!
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Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and zesty Latin American appetizer featuring tender cooked shrimp marinated in fresh lime juice and mixed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, spicy jalapeño, and creamy avocado. This easy no-cook shrimp ceviche is perfect for a light meal or party snack, served chilled with optional 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
Finishing Touch
- 1 avocado, diced
- Optional: tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Marinate Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp with the fresh lime juice. Allow the shrimp to sit for 10 minutes so it can absorb the citrus flavor and develop the signature ceviche tang.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Stir gently to distribute all ingredients evenly without mashing the vegetables.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and drizzle olive oil. Mix carefully again to blend the flavors without breaking the shrimp.
- Incorporate Avocado: Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado to add a creamy texture and richness to the ceviche.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the ceviche and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled either with tortilla chips or spooned into small serving cups for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Use cooked shrimp to ensure food safety and speed up preparation time.
- Add extra jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier ceviche.
- When making ahead, add the avocado right before serving to prevent it from browning.
