Zesty Shrimp Ceviche a Taste of Sunshine
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip to the beach without leaving your kitchen? This shrimp ceviche recipe will transport you! It's zingy, fresh, and seriously addictive.
Honestly, are you after a fresh seafood recipes that is easy to make?
Brief Overview
Ceviche originates from South America. It is a classic dish where shrimp is "cooked" using the acid in lime marinated shrimp and is super simple to prepare.
This easy ceviche recipe takes about 1 hour 20 minutes total, including chilling time. It makes 4 servings, perfect for sharing or a light meal.
Main Benefits
This seafood dinner is packed with protein and vitamin C. It's ideal for a light lunch or a hot summer's day.
What makes this recipe special? It is super customisable and so easy!.
Ready to Make Shrimp Ceviche?
Alright, let's get cracking on a shrimp ceviche recipe that even Mary Berry would approve of! I'll make it clear, concise, and foolproof.
Even if you're more "Great British Baking Show disaster" than "star baker," you'll nail this.
This Zesty shrimp ceviche recipe will give you a taste of sunshine. Transport yourself to a sun-drenched beach with this vibrant and refreshing ceviche.
This South American classic features succulent shrimp "cooked" in a bright citrus marinade, tossed with crunchy vegetables and a kick of chili.
It's the perfect light lunch, appetizer, or even a sophisticated picnic treat. It's definitely one of my favourite Mexican food recipes authentic .
What You'll Need: The Ingredients
Here's what you'll need for the recipe:
- 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped (about 1/2 inch pieces). Use medium sized shrimp for the best texture. Make sure they are fresh!
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup (75g) tomato, seeded and diced
- 1/2 cup (75g) cucumber, seeded and diced
- 1/4 cup (30g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 serrano peppers (or jalapeño), seeded and minced (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced, for serving
Tools of the Trade
Make sure you have these bits ready!.
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Citrus juicer
- Large glass bowl
- Small mixing bowl
On a side note. Always use a glass bowl for acid marinades. It really does make a difference! Metal bowls can react and add a weird flavour.
Speaking from experience, it isn't a pleasant flavour at all!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Zesty Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Alright, let's talk ingredients for this fantastic ceviche recipe . This shrimp recipes easy to follow, so don't worry!
Main Ingredients Deets
Here's what you'll need. Don't skimp on quality, especially with the shrimp!
- 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp , peeled, deveined, and chopped.
- 1 cup (240ml) fresh lime juice, squeezed right before. Freshness matters! If possible, aim for Key Limes, their unique flavour shines through.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) finely diced red onion.
- 1/2 cup (75g) seeded and diced tomato.
- 1/2 cup (75g) seeded and diced cucumber.
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantro.
- 1-2 minced serrano peppers (or jalapeño). Control your heat!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Optional: 1 diced avocado.
For the shrimp, make sure it smells fresh. Like, ocean-y fresh. Not...fishy. If it smells fishy, bin it!. I usually buy mine from the local fish market.
Don't risk dodgy shrimp!. This fresh seafood recipes will not work with old shrimp!
Seasoning Notes: Get That Flavour Popping!
This ain't your grandma's boiled dinner, this is Mexican food recipes authentic flavor!
For that classic ceviche zing, the lime, cilantro, and chili combo is key. Don't be shy with the lime juice! You need that acid to "cook" the shrimp .
Want a bit more? Add a pinch of cumin or oregano. If you are wondering how to cook shrimp , let the lime juice do it for you.
Seriously the best easy ceviche recipe .
If you're not a cilantro fan (I know, some people hate it), try a little parsley. But honestly, cilantro's the bomb.
For quick shrimp appetizer , don't skip it!. Think of that lime marinated shrimp flavour.
Essential Equipment: Keep it Simple
You really don't need much for this seafood dinner .
- Cutting board and a sharp knife (duh).
- Citrus juicer. Those little handheld ones are fine.
- Large glass bowl. Always glass. The lime juice reacts with metal!
- Small mixing bowl for prepping veggies.
If you don't have a citrus juicer, you can squeeze the limes by hand. Just watch out for the seeds! A fork can help you get all the juice out.
Zesty Shrimp Ceviche Recipe : A Taste of Sunshine
Fancy a quick trip to the beach? This shrimp ceviche recipe is your ticket! It is a vibrant, refreshing dish.
It is perfect for a light lunch or a fancy picnic. Trust me, it will become one of your favorite seafood dinner options.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First, chop your veggies. Dice that red onion. Seed and dice the tomato and cucumber. Mince the serrano pepper. Remember to be careful!.
Fresh cilantro next! Now, peel, devein, and chop that shrimp recipes easy ! Essential mise en place is key.
step-by-step Sunshine: Let's Make Ceviche
- Prep the Shrimp: Combine 1 pound chopped shrimp and 1 cup lime juice in a glass bowl.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour . Shrimp should turn opaque and pink.
- Chop: Dice 1/2 cup red onion, 1/2 cup tomato, 1/2 cup cucumber, and 1/4 cup cilantro.
- Combine: Drain lime juice. Add veggies, cilantro, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to the shrimp.
- Mix and Taste: Toss gently. Adjust seasoning. More lime or chili, maybe?
- Chill: Cover and chill for 15- 20 minutes .
Pro Tips and Tricks: Secret Ceviche Skills
Don't over marinate! Here's how to cook shrimp the perfect amount of time: Check after an hour. Over marinated shrimp gets rubbery.
Bleurgh! Always use a glass bowl. Metal reacts with the lime marinated shrimp .
You can try this easy ceviche recipe with other seafood. Scallops are awesome. Just reduce the marinating time, ok? For a great Mexican food recipes authentic , pair with tortilla chips and a cold cerveza.
What are you waiting for? This homemade ceviche will be the quick shrimp appetizer everybody loves.
Recipe Notes: My Shrimp Ceviche Secrets
Okay, so you’re ready to tackle this shrimp ceviche recipe ? Ace! Here are some little nuggets of wisdom I've picked up over the years making this.
Trust me, these tips will take your homemade ceviche from "meh" to "Oh my gosh, this is amazing!"
Plating Like a Pro and What to Sip
First impressions matter! For plating, think bright and colourful. I love serving mine in little martini glasses. It feels fancy, but it’s dead easy.
Garnish with a sprig of cilantro and a lime wedge. This is ceviche recipe perfection. As for drinks? Honestly, a cold Corona with a lime wedge is my go-to.
It’s a classic pairing for Mexican food recipes authentic , right?
Storage: Keeping it Fresh
Okay, how to cook shrimp … well, technically we're not cooking it, but you get my drift. Leftover ceviche? In the fridge, it's good for about 24 hours .
Any longer and the texture goes a bit wonky. Freezing is a no-go, trust me. It gets all mushy. Nobody wants mushy shrimp recipes easy .
Tweaks and Twists: My Variations
Want to mix it up? Try adding some diced mango for a sweet and spicy twist. So delish! For a dietary adaptation , you could add diced avocado.
That makes the seafood dinner richer and more filling. Also, if you don't love spice you can use a milder pepper, but it will need something to replace the flavours like fresh ginger to make it pop.
Nutritional Nitty Gritty
Let's talk nutrition. This easy ceviche recipe is relatively low in calories but packed with protein. Win-win! The lime juice is loaded with vitamin C.
That means a boost for your immune system. This lime marinated shrimp is as good for you as it is tasty.
Also, use fresh seafood recipes as often as possible for the most health benefits.
And remember, making this shrimp ceviche recipe should be a quick shrimp appetizer that's fun. Don't stress if it's not perfect the first time.
It's all about experimenting and finding what you like best. Go on, give it a bash!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to "cook" shrimp in lime juice for this shrimp ceviche recipe?
Generally, the shrimp needs to marinate in the lime juice for at least 1 hour, or until it turns completely opaque and pink, much like it would when cooked with heat. Keep an eye on it though; over marinating can make the shrimp a bit rubbery, which is definitely not what we're aiming for!
Think of it like brewing a good cuppa you want it just right.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this shrimp ceviche recipe?
Absolutely, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. The best way is to thaw them overnight in the fridge, or in a bowl of cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the lime juice you don't want to dilute that lovely citrusy flavor!
Is shrimp ceviche safe to eat since the shrimp isn't cooked with heat?
That's a fair question! The high acidity of the lime juice denatures the proteins in the shrimp, essentially "cooking" it chemically. While it's not cooked with heat, the lime juice effectively kills most harmful bacteria.
However, it is crucial to use the freshest shrimp possible from a reputable source to minimize any risk.
Can I make shrimp ceviche ahead of time, and how long will it last?
You can definitely prep it ahead! Shrimp ceviche is best served within 24 hours of making it, as the texture of the shrimp can change the longer it sits in the lime juice. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just like leftovers from your Sunday roast, the sooner you eat it, the better!
What are some variations I can try with this shrimp ceviche recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Try adding some diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist, or throw in some jalapeño or habanero for extra heat. A little diced avocado right before serving adds a creamy texture. It's like jazz take the basic melody and improvise!
I'm allergic to shellfish; can I still enjoy a ceviche style dish?
While a traditional shrimp ceviche is off the table, you can absolutely create a ceviche inspired dish using alternatives! Firm white fish like cod or halibut work well, or even hearts of palm for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the marinating time as needed.
Think of it as a "ceviche remix" same vibe, different instruments!
Zesty Shrimp Ceviche A Taste Of Sunshine
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 10g |
