This Easy Shrimp Ceviche is the perfect appetizer or light meal, featuring tender shrimp marinated in tangy lime juice and mixed with fresh, vibrant vegetables. The lime juice “cooks” the shrimp, creating a unique texture while infusing it with a refreshing citrus flavor. With the added crunch of tomatoes, red onions, and jalapeños, along with the freshness of cilantro and green onions, this ceviche is bursting with flavor. It’s an ideal dish for summer gatherings, a light dinner, or a dip for tortilla chips. For a creamy twist, you can even add avocado.
Ingredients
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12 ounces cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail removed)
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½ cup fresh lime juice
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2 Roma tomatoes (diced)
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1 medium red onion (diced)
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2 medium jalapeño peppers (seeded and diced)
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¼ cup cilantro (chopped)
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2 green onions (diced)
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¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Directions
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Chop the shrimp into small pieces and place in a medium-sized bowl.
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Add the lime juice to the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
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Add the diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, and salt to the shrimp mixture.
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Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables like cucumber for a refreshing snack or appetizer.
Nutrients
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Calories: 77 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Protein: 11g
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Fat: 1g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: 415mg
The Origins of Ceviche
Ceviche is a beloved dish that has its roots in Latin America, with various countries laying claim to its origins. Most notably, Peru is recognized as the birthplace of ceviche, where it is regarded as a national dish. While the ingredients and preparation methods vary from region to region, ceviche typically consists of raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, most commonly lime or lemon, which “cooks” the seafood. This process imparts a delicate flavor and firm texture to the seafood.
In Peru, ceviche is often made with freshly caught fish, combined with red onions, cilantro, and aji peppers for spice. The dish is usually served with sides such as sweet potato, corn, or toasted corn kernels. Over time, ceviche spread across Latin America, with each country adding its own unique twist. In Mexico, for instance, shrimp and other shellfish are frequently used, with an additional mix of vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and cilantro. This evolution led to the creation of shrimp ceviche, a version popular worldwide.
Why Shrimp Ceviche?
Shrimp ceviche is a popular variation of the traditional ceviche recipe. Shrimp’s natural sweetness, tender texture, and ability to absorb the tangy citrus marinade make it an ideal candidate for ceviche. Unlike the firmer fish varieties, shrimp provides a unique balance of flavors that meld beautifully with the acidity of lime juice. The marinade also infuses the shrimp with a light, refreshing taste while retaining its tender texture, making it the perfect addition to any appetizer or light meal.
Additionally, shrimp ceviche offers several advantages over its fish counterpart. For one, shrimp is widely available and can be found year-round, making it a more accessible option. The shrimp’s texture is also a point of appeal for many, as it is more consistent and less prone to the “flaky” quality that can sometimes affect fish when marinated. Shrimp ceviche is also quicker to prepare since the shrimp cooks faster in the acidic lime juice compared to fish, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or easy meal prep.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Ceviche
Beyond its refreshing taste, shrimp ceviche offers numerous health benefits, making it not only a flavorful dish but also a nutritious one. Some of the notable benefits include:
1. High Protein Content
Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, a macronutrient that is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes, and supporting immune function. A serving of shrimp ceviche contains a significant amount of protein, making it a filling and satisfying dish, especially for those looking to meet their daily protein needs without consuming excess calories.
2. Low in Calories
With only 77 calories per serving, shrimp ceviche is an ideal option for those who are watching their calorie intake. It is a light dish that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction, making it a great choice for individuals looking to maintain a healthy weight or incorporate more low-calorie meals into their diet.
3. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Shrimp ceviche is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. Shrimp is rich in vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells and maintaining nerve health. It also provides a good amount of selenium, an important antioxidant that helps protect the body from oxidative stress and supports immune function. Additionally, the vegetables in ceviche—such as tomatoes, onions, and cilantro—offer various vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A, which contribute to overall health and well-being.
4. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Though shrimp doesn’t contain as much omega-3 fatty acids as fatty fish like salmon, it still provides a modest amount. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for heart health, as they can help lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
5. Supports Digestive Health
The lime juice in ceviche not only imparts a tangy flavor but also provides a natural source of vitamin C and helps in the digestion process. Citrus fruits like lime contain citric acid, which may aid digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and promoting the breakdown of food in the stomach. The vegetables in ceviche also contribute to fiber content, which supports healthy digestion.
The Versatility of Shrimp Ceviche
One of the most appealing aspects of shrimp ceviche is its versatility. The base ingredients—shrimp, lime juice, vegetables—offer a foundation that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some variations include:
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Avocado: Adding creamy avocado to your ceviche creates a rich texture that complements the sharpness of the lime and the crunch of the vegetables. It also adds healthy fats to the dish, making it more filling and nutritious.
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Fruit: Many ceviche recipes incorporate fruit, such as mango, pineapple, or orange, which adds a touch of sweetness and balances out the acidity of the lime juice. This tropical twist can make shrimp ceviche even more refreshing, especially during the warmer months.
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Spicy Options: For those who enjoy a little heat, jalapeños, habaneros, or other hot peppers can be added to the ceviche. The heat from the peppers pairs beautifully with the acidity of the lime and the freshness of the shrimp, creating a more complex flavor profile.
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Tropical Flavors: Ceviche can be enhanced with tropical herbs and spices like cilantro, mint, or even coconut milk, offering a more exotic, island-inspired flavor that transports you to sunny destinations.
The adaptability of shrimp ceviche makes it suitable for various dietary needs, including gluten-free, low-carb, and paleo diets. Whether served as a light meal, a refreshing snack, or a party appetizer, shrimp ceviche can be easily tailored to fit any occasion.
Tips for Making Perfect Shrimp Ceviche
To ensure that your shrimp ceviche turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp
Since shrimp is the star of this dish, it’s essential to use fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for shrimp that is firm, slightly translucent, and free of any off-putting odors. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before preparing the ceviche.
2. Let the Shrimp Marinate Long Enough
The key to a great ceviche is allowing the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice long enough. While the acid in the lime juice will begin to change the shrimp’s texture almost immediately, allowing it to marinate for at least 10 minutes and up to an hour will ensure that the shrimp achieves the perfect level of tenderness.
3. Taste and Adjust the Seasoning
Before serving, be sure to taste the ceviche and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more lime juice for tanginess, salt for balance, or extra cilantro for a fresh kick. This will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
4. Serve Immediately
Ceviche is best served fresh. While it can be refrigerated for up to an hour, it’s best enjoyed immediately after marinating. The longer it sits, the more the shrimp may lose its texture, so serve it as soon as possible for the most flavorful and refreshing experience.
Conclusion
Shrimp ceviche is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines the refreshing tang of lime juice with the sweetness of shrimp and the crunch of fresh vegetables. Its versatility allows for endless variations, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, preparing a light dinner, or simply craving a flavorful snack, shrimp ceviche is sure to satisfy. By incorporating fresh ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.