Easy Shrimp Ceviche Citrus

Easy shrimp ceviche is my favorite go-to dish for summer gatherings because it is impossibly fresh light and takes only minutes to make. I first tried it as a potluck surprise when my neighbor shared her family recipe and I have been making it weekly ever since.

The first time I made this ceviche for my family I was nervous about the shrimp but it turned out so tangy and refreshing everyone finished it before I could even get a second serving

Ingredients

• Peeled and deveined raw medium shrimp: look for shrimp with firm flesh and no fishy odor for best quality
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: this brings zingy brightness use ripe juicy lemons for more flavor
• Freshly squeezed lime juice: limes add a signature tang that balances the shrimp try to use fresh juice not bottled
• Ripe tomatoes: seed and chop for sweet acidity choose tomatoes that are heavy for their size and deep in color
• Red onion: gives a sharp contrast when finely chopped look for one that is firm and free of soft spots
• Fresh jalapeño: delivers gentle heat use gloves when chopping and adjust the amount if you want more or less spice
• Fresh cilantro: both leaves and tender stems add a cooling herbal note pick vibrant bright green bunches
• Kosher salt: brings out the flavors use flaked kosher salt for best taste
• Avocado: stirs in creaminess and healthy fat pick a ripe but firm avocado that yields to gentle pressure
• Tostadas or tortilla chips: serve as a crunchy base optional but really takes the experience up a notch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Poach Shrimp

Fill a large pot with water add a generous pinch of salt then bring it to a rolling boil over high heat Turn off the heat once boiling add the shrimp and let them poach for about two or three minutes until they turn opaque and pink Carefully drain and spread out the shrimp to cool for ten minutes

Chop and Toss

Cut the cooled shrimp into small half-inch pieces Transfer them into a big bowl Squeeze in the fresh lemon and lime juices then add chopped tomatoes red onion jalapeño cilantro and kosher salt Mix well making sure all shrimp is coated with citrus and the veggies are evenly distributed

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl tightly with wrap or a lid and place in the refrigerator Let it marinate for at least one hour and up to four hours so the flavors meld and the shrimp absorbs all that bright citrus goodness

Finish and Serve

Right before you want to eat dice the avocado and gently fold it into the ceviche Carefully mix so the avocado stays in larger pieces Serve straight away with tostadas or tortilla chips if you like

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My personal favorite addition here is the fresh cilantro It always reminds me of backyard cookouts with friends and the way a little green zest can change a whole dish The brightness lifts everything and makes it addictively fresh

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers tightly covered in the fridge and eat them within one day for best taste and freshness The avocado may brown but the lime keeps everything fairly vibrant If making ahead mix in the avocado just before eating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chopped cooked lobster or even white fish in place of shrimp for a fun twist If cilantro is not your favorite try flat-leaf parsley for a different but still herby freshness Squeeze extra juice on top if using fish to amplify flavor

Serving Suggestions

Pile generous scoops of ceviche onto crispy tostadas or serve as a hand-held topping for tortilla chips It also makes a beautiful topping for greens or inside lettuce cups for a lighter snack I sometimes spoon leftovers into mini peppers for party appetizers

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Cultural Context

Shrimp ceviche has deep roots in Latin American cuisine especially Mexico and Peru It is beloved at beachside restaurants and family gatherings for its juicy vibrant qualities Using citrus to marinate seafood is a centuries-old tradition that brings together fresh ingredients and a celebration of sunny weather

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, pre-cooked shrimp may be used. Simply skip the poaching step and cut the shrimp into bite-sized pieces before marinating in citrus juice.

→ How long should I marinate the shrimp?

Allow the shrimp and other ingredients to marinate for at least one hour, or up to four. This gives the flavors time to meld.

→ Can I add extra spice?

Certainly! For more heat, add extra jalapeño or a touch of hot sauce according to taste preference.

→ What are good serving options?

Tostadas and tortilla chips work beautifully, but the shrimp mixture is also perfect tucked into lettuce leaves or over salad greens.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day for best texture and freshness.

→ Is this dish safe for those avoiding raw seafood?

Yes, the shrimp are fully cooked before mixing with the citrus, making this a safe and fresh option for everyone.