Citrusy Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm weather or as a light appetizer. This recipe combines tender shrimp with fresh citrus juices, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs, resulting in a tangy, zesty, and utterly delicious ceviche. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and bursting with flavor—ideal for casual get-togethers, poolside snacking, or even a fancy dinner starter. Get ready to enjoy the delightful mix of bright citrus and succulent shrimp!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup diced tomato
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Tortilla chips, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp
   • In a medium glass or stainless steel bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with the lime juice, lemon juice, and orange juice. Make sure the shrimp is fully submerged in the citrus juice.
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes, or until the shrimp turns opaque and is “cooked” by the acidity of the citrus juices.
2. Combine with Vegetables
   • Once the shrimp is fully cooked, drain off about half of the citrus juice (leave some for flavor).
   • Add the diced red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, cucumber, and tomato to the shrimp mixture. Stir to combine.
3. Season and Add Avocado
   • Gently fold in the diced avocado. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve
   • Serve the ceviche chilled with tortilla chips on the side, or spoon it into small bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Freshness Matters: Use the freshest shrimp you can find, as ceviche relies on raw seafood. If you’re not comfortable with raw shrimp, you can blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before marinating.
• Citrus Mix: The combination of lime, lemon, and orange juice provides a balanced citrus flavor. Feel free to adjust the ratio to suit your taste.
• Chill Time: Do not over-marinate the shrimp, as the acidity can make it tough if left too long.

Recipe Variations

• Mango Shrimp Ceviche: Add 1/2 cup diced mango for a touch of sweetness that balances the citrus.
• Spicy Ceviche: Leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a chopped serrano pepper for extra heat.
• Mixed Seafood Ceviche: Add other seafood like scallops or squid to make a mixed seafood ceviche.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does shrimp ceviche last? A: Shrimp ceviche is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The texture of the shrimp may change after that.

Q: Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw? A: Yes, you can use cooked shrimp if you prefer. Just marinate the shrimp in the citrus juices for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Q: Is ceviche safe to eat? A: Yes, ceviche is safe to eat if made with fresh seafood and marinated properly in citrus juice, which “cooks” the shrimp. However, always ensure you use high-quality seafood for ceviche.

This Citrusy Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With bright citrus, tender shrimp, and crisp vegetables, it’s an easy and healthy appetizer that never fails to impress. Serve it with tortilla chips for a casual gathering or dress it up for a fancy starter—either way, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy this vibrant and zesty dish that brings a taste of the coast to your table!