Best Shrimp Ceviche

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Shrimp ceviche is a refreshing, zesty dish that originates from Latin America. It’s a type of seafood salad where fresh shrimp is “cooked” in the acidity of citrus juice, usually lime or lemon, rather than heat. The shrimp absorbs the citrus flavor, creating a tangy, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Best Shrimp Ceviche

Mixed with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and sometimes avocado, shrimp ceviche is colorful, and packed with vitamins and protein. It’s a popular appetizer at parties, beach gatherings, and family meals, offering a taste of coastal cuisine that’s simple to make at home.

I usually prep this while chatting with my sister in the kitchen whereas she’s always on cucumber duty because she somehow slices them perfectly every time while I’m juggling the shrimp and lime and also trying to keep the cilantro from flying off the counter so yes, it’s chaos, yet absolutely worth it.

Best Shrimp Ceviche

What’s wild is how something this simple can taste so unreal since, honestly, how does citrus do all that magic when there’s no stove and no baking but just a bowl and a fridge and a little patience, which, let’s be honest, we all fake when we’re hungry.

Oh, and if you’re thinking “Raw shrimp Really” then don’t worry because we’re cooking it in lime juice ceviche-style so it’s science-y and delicious.

Anyway, if you’ve never tried making Shrimp Ceviche at home, you’re definitely in for a good time, and no judgment at all if you eat the whole batch straight out of the bowl because I’ve been there too.

So grab your limes and get your shrimp ready while we get into it since this one’s a keeper.

Kitchen Equipment Needed :

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Glass or ceramic mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Spoon for mixing
  • Plastic wrap

Tips for Shrimp Ceviche :

Use fresh shrimp: fresh or high quality frozen shrimp will make a huge difference in flavor.

Don’t over-marinate: too much lime juice can make the shrimp rubbery. Stick to 30–45 minutes for small pieces.

Balance flavors: taste the ceviche before serving. Add more lime, salt, or jalapeño to adjust according to your preference.

Chill properly: always serve ceviche cold to enhance its refreshing taste.

Add creative twists: mango, cucumber, or bell peppers add sweetness and crunch for a different flavor profile.

Best Shrimp Ceviche

What to Eat with Shrimp Ceviche ??

Shrimp ceviche pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. You can serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy bite, on top of tostadas for a fun snack, or with a side of fresh salad.

It’s also fantastic with crusty bread, avocado slices, or even over a bed of rice for a light meal. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine, sparkling water, or a tropical fruit juice complements the citrusy flavors beautifully.

Ingredients :

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut into bite sized pieces
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice “about 6–8 limes”
  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 or 2 jalapeños, finely chopped “optional, adjust to taste”
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cucumber, bell peppers, or mango for extra flavor

How to Make Shrimp Ceviche :

Step 1

First prepare the shrimp: start by peeling, deveining, and chopping the shrimp into small, bite sized pieces. Fresh or previously frozen shrimp works best and marinate the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a glass or ceramic bowl, then pour fresh lime juice over it. Make sure all the shrimp is submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30–45 minutes, until the shrimp turns opaque and looks “cooked” by the citrus.

Best Shrimp Ceviche

Step 2

Second mix the vegetables: while the shrimp is marinating, dice the onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and avocado.

Chop the cilantro finely then combine everything : once the shrimp is ready, drain a little of the excess lime juice if desired. Mix the marinated shrimp with the chopped vegetables and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Best Shrimp Ceviche

Step 3

Finally chill and serve: cover the bowl and refrigerate for another 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled for the best taste.

FAQ’S :

Do I have to cook the shrimp?

No, the lime juice “cooks” the shrimp, making it safe to eat if fresh, high quality shrimp is used.

Can I add other seafood?

Absolutely! Scallops, firm fish, or even cooked octopus work well.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before marinating.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Chilled in a bowl, with tortilla chips, on tostadas, or with avocado slices.

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Best Shrimp Ceviche

Shrimp Ceviche

Recipe by LorieCourse: SnacksCuisine: Latin AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

180

kcal
Total time

50

minutes

A refreshing and tangy dish made with shrimp “cooked” in lime juice, mixed with fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect as a light appetizer or snack, served chilled.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut into bite sized pieces

  • 1 cup fresh lime juice "about 6–8 limes"

  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped

  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced

  • 1 or 2 jalapeños, finely chopped "optional, adjust to taste"

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 1 avocado, diced

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: cucumber, bell peppers, or mango for extra flavor

Directions

  • First prepare the shrimp: start by peeling, deveining, and chopping the shrimp into small, bite sized pieces. Fresh or previously frozen shrimp works best and marinate the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a glass or ceramic bowl, then pour fresh lime juice over it. Make sure all the shrimp is submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30–45 minutes, until the shrimp turns opaque and looks “cooked” by the citrus.
  • Second mix the vegetables: while the shrimp is marinating, dice the onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and avocado. Chop the cilantro finely then combine everything: once the shrimp is ready, drain a little of the excess lime juice if desired. Mix the marinated shrimp with the chopped vegetables and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Finally chill and serve: cover the bowl and refrigerate for another 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled for the best taste.

Notes

  • Shrimp prep : use raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; small or medium sizes work best.
  • “Cooking” method : marinate shrimp in fresh citrus juice "lime or lemon "until opaque; the acid “cooks” the shrimp without heat.
  • Veggie additions : diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and bell peppers add crunch and color.
  • Texture tips : drain excess citrus juice before serving if you prefer a thicker ceviche.
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Lorie

Lorie

Hi there! I’m Lorie the voice, cook, and heart behind Thebrunchingmama.com A former teacher turned full-time blogger and proud mama, I’m embracing this delicious new chapter one recipe at a time!

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