Shrimp Ceviche

Shrimp Ceviche is a perfect dish for those hot summer days or any festive gathering. Bursting with fresh flavors, this dish combines succulent shrimp with zesty lime juice and crisp vegetables. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to appetizer for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. With its bright colors and refreshing taste, Shrimp Ceviche will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Shrimp Ceviche comes together in just about 25 minutes, allowing you to whip up a tasty treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: Loaded with vibrant vegetables and fresh lime juice, this dish is healthy and packed with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack—perfect for any occasion.
• No Cooking Required: Since the shrimp is already cooked, there’s no need for additional cooking time; just chop and mix!
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to be a hit at gatherings, with its unique taste and eye-catching presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To make Shrimp Ceviche effectively, having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. Gather these essential items before you start preparing your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium bowl: Essential for mixing all ingredients together while allowing enough space to toss everything evenly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for vegetables, enhancing presentation and texture in your ceviche.

Ingredients

Shrimp Ceviche is a chilled, refreshing dip that is loaded with shrimp, lime juice, and lots of fresh vegetables.

For the Shrimp

• 12 ounces cooked shrimp, (peeled, deveined, tail removed)

For the Dressing

• ½ cup fresh lime juice

For the Vegetables

• 2 Roma tomatoes, (diced)
• 1 medium red onion, (diced)
• 2 medium jalapeno peppers, (seeded and diced)
• ¼ cup cilantro, (chopped)
• 2 green onions, (diced)

For Seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Shrimp Ceviche

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a medium bowl.

Step 2: Marinate in Lime Juice

1. Add fresh lime juice to the chopped shrimp.
2. Toss gently to coat all pieces in lime juice.
3. Let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables

1. Add the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapenos, cilantro, green onions, and kosher salt to the shrimp mixture.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour for best flavor.
3. Serve cold with tortilla chips for dipping.

Enjoy your delightful Shrimp Ceviche at your next gathering!

How to Serve Shrimp Ceviche

Serving Shrimp Ceviche can elevate your dining experience, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its fresh, zesty flavors.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips make for the perfect vessel to scoop up the shrimp ceviche, adding texture to each bite.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that adds a refreshing crunch while keeping the ceviche light.

As a Topping for Tacos

• Spoon shrimp ceviche onto soft corn tortillas for a delightful twist on traditional tacos, combining flavors and textures beautifully.

With Avocado Slices

• Serve with fresh avocado slices on the side or on top. The creaminess of avocado complements the tangy ceviche perfectly.

As Part of a Seafood Platter

• Include shrimp ceviche on a seafood platter alongside oysters and crab legs. This adds variety and makes for an impressive presentation.

Pairing with Cold Beverages

• Enjoy shrimp ceviche with chilled beverages like beer, margaritas, or sparkling water to balance the acidity of lime juice.

How to Perfect Shrimp Ceviche

To create the best Shrimp Ceviche, focus on freshness and timing. Proper preparation ensures vibrant flavors and optimal texture in every bite.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always select high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best taste. Frozen shrimp works too but ensure it’s thawed properly.
• Marinate Adequately: Allowing the shrimp to marinate in lime juice for at least 10 minutes enhances flavor and texture without overcooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cilantro instead of canned options to maintain crispness and flavor.
• Adjust Lime Juice: Tailor the amount of lime juice based on your preference; more juice gives it a tangier flavor while less keeps it subtle.
• Season Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Kosher salt elevates the overall flavor profile, balancing the acidity from lime juice.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Ceviche

Pairing side dishes with Shrimp Ceviche can complement its refreshing taste. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness that contrasts nicely with the tartness of ceviche; serve it with tortilla chips.
2. Rice and Beans: A classic combination, rice and beans provide heartiness and help absorb the zesty flavors of ceviche.
3. Corn Salsa: Sweet corn salsa is vibrant and refreshing; its sweetness balances the acidity of the ceviche.
4. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa add extra crunch and flavor, making them an excellent accompaniment.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled veggies bring smoky flavors that enhance the fresh taste of shrimp ceviche.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers coolness that complements this dish perfectly.
7. Plantain Chips: These crispy snacks add a unique twist while providing a satisfying crunch alongside your ceviche.
8. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds zestiness and freshness that harmonizes beautifully with shrimp ceviche’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp Ceviche, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using raw shrimp: Always use cooked shrimp. Raw shrimp can pose health risks and won’t achieve the right texture when marinated in lime juice.
• Over-marinating: Avoid letting the shrimp sit in lime juice for too long. This can lead to a rubbery texture; 10 minutes is ideal for flavor infusion.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Don’t use stale or old vegetables. Fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and onions enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Be careful not to under-season your ceviche. A little kosher salt elevates flavors, so don’t skip it.
• Serving at room temperature: Always chill your Shrimp Ceviche before serving. This keeps it refreshing and safe for consumption.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Shrimp Ceviche in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it chilled until serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shrimp Ceviche

• It’s not recommended to freeze Shrimp Ceviche as the texture may change upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze only cooked shrimp separately, not the entire dish.

Reheating Shrimp Ceviche

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread ceviche on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on low power for short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pan on low heat while stirring consistently to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shrimp Ceviche?

Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing seafood dish made with cooked shrimp marinated in lime juice and mixed with fresh vegetables.

How long will Shrimp Ceviche last in the fridge?

When stored properly, Shrimp Ceviche can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as they are fully cooked before adding them to the ceviche.

Is Shrimp Ceviche healthy?

Absolutely! Shrimp Ceviche is low in calories and packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for any meal or snack.

How can I customize my Shrimp Ceviche?

Feel free to add ingredients like mango or avocado for added flavor and texture. Adjust spices according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Ceviche is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, it’s sure to impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to get creative with ingredients; customize it based on your preferences!