The moment I first tasted Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro, it felt as if summer had burst onto my plate. The zesty zing of fresh lime mixed with sweet orange juice creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly elevates succulent shrimp and creamy avocado. Picture this: each bite reveals a medley of crunch from crisp cucumbers and the subtle heat of serrano peppers, all harmonizing beautifully with fragrant cilantro.
This dish isn’t just another appetizer; it’s a light, healthy celebration of home cooking that transforms gatherings into memorable feasts. Whether you’re hosting a sunny backyard barbecue or simply looking for a refreshing meal on a warm afternoon, this recipe promises to impress. Let’s dive into this vibrant ceviche that brings the taste of the coast right to your kitchen, proving that homemade meals can be both effortless and elegant!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Freshness Guaranteed: Each ingredient in this recipe shines, from zesty lime to ripe avocado, ensuring a burst of flavors that feels like a mini-vacation on your plate.
Healthy Indulgence: With low calories and healthy fats, this ceviche aligns perfectly with your health-conscious lifestyle.
Quick and Easy Prep: This ceviche comes together in mere minutes. Just marinate your shrimp, chop your veggies, and you’re set!
Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite seafood or add fruits for a twist, making this recipe adaptable for any palate.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is bound to be a showstopper, impressing friends and family alike with its vibrant colors and incredible flavor!
Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche Ingredients
For the Ceviche
• Large Shrimp – Use fresh shrimp for maximum flavor and texture; feel free to substitute with scallops or tilapia if desired.
• Fresh Lime Juice – This tangy juice “cooks” the shrimp beautifully; lemon juice can be a great substitute.
• Fresh Orange Juice – Adds a hint of sweetness; in a pinch, use additional lime juice for extra zing.
• Red Onion – Offers sharpness and vibrant color; consider sweet onion for a milder taste.
• Cucumber – Provides a delightful crunch; jicama can also be used for a unique twist.
• Tomato – Infuses freshness and moisture; swap in diced mango for a fruity alternative.
• Fresh Cilantro – Brings an aromatic herbaceous note; parsley can work well if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
• Ripe Avocado – Supplies creamy texture and healthy fats; add just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhances the dish’s overall flavor; adjust to suit your personal taste.
• Serrano Peppers (optional) – Introduces a gentle heat; use jalapeños for a milder option or omit altogether.
• Tortilla Chips or Tostadas – Serve for a crunchy accompaniment to your ceviche, perfect for scooping!
Indulge in this Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro for a refreshing experience that captures the essence of summer in every bite!
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche
-
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, gently mix the shrimp, fresh lime juice, and orange juice. This is where the flavors begin to meld. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque.
-
Add Fresh Veggies: Next, add the red onion, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, and optional serrano peppers to the marinated shrimp. Toss gently to combine, allowing those bright, fresh flavors to mingle beautifully.
-
Fold in Avocado: Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado carefully. This will add a creamy richness that balances the tartness of the citrus. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect finish.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the ceviche into a bowl and serve it alongside tortilla chips or tostadas. Watch as everyone dives in for a taste of this vibrant dish!
Optional: Garnish with extra lime wedges for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy days! You can marinate the shrimp in lime and orange juice for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, chop your vegetables (red onion, cucumber, and tomato) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the avocado right before serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine all the ingredients, season to taste, and serve with tortilla chips for a refreshing dish that feels freshly made!
Tips for the Best Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp make all the difference in flavor and texture. If you opt for frozen, ensure they are fully thawed for the best ceviche.
- Marination Time: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This time is crucial for the lime juice to fully “cook” the shrimp, ensuring delicious results.
- Avocado Last Minute: Add the ripe avocado just before serving. This preserves its creamy texture and prevents browning, keeping your dish vibrant.
- Heat Balance: Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of serrano peppers. You can also offer hot sauce on the side for guests who enjoy a little kick.
- Texture Matters: For a delightful crunch, ensure your cucumbers and tomatoes are diced into uniform sizes. This gives your Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro an appealing look and satisfying mouthfeel.
- Serve Fresh: Ceviche is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare it only 30 minutes ahead of serving. This guarantees maximum flavor and freshness!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, ceviche shouldn’t be left out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety and quality.
- Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh before serving.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for shrimp and avocado ceviche, as the texture of the shrimp and avocado will suffer once thawed.
- Reheating: Ceviche is not meant to be reheated. Serve it cold with crisp tortilla chips to enjoy its refreshing flavors!
What to Serve with Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro?
Fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors create a delightful dining experience when sharing this light and healthy ceviche.
-
Tortilla Chips: Perfectly crispy, these make for delightful scoops that complement the freshness of the ceviche.
-
Mango Salsa: The sweetness and juiciness of mango add a tropical twist, enhancing the flavors of your ceviche beautifully.
-
Crispy Corn Tostadas: Serve your ceviche on top of these, creating a fun and crunchy base that adds texture to each bite.
-
Cilantro Lime Rice: A refreshing side dish with zesty notes, it pairs well with the Ceviche and serves to soak up every last drop of the marinade.
-
Guacamole: The creamy richness harmonizes wonderfully with the lightness of the ceviche, creating a perfect balance of textures.
-
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Pinot Grigio elevates the meal, matching the bright flavors of lime and shrimp.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: Combining melons and berries adds a sweet, refreshing contrast that complements the ceviche’s zesty profile.
-
Coconut Water: For a hydrating drink, this refreshing option offers a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall tropical theme of your meal.
Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that make your ceviche even more exciting and personalized!
- Seafood Swap: Use bay scallops or tilapia instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile. Each option brings a unique touch to your dish.
- Fruity Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness. The fruits complement the citrus beautifully, creating a vibrant explosion of flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or basil. Their aromatic notes elevate the dish, adding complexity and freshness.
- Spicy Upgrade: For extra heat, incorporate diced jalapeños along with or instead of serrano peppers. Spice lovers will appreciate this added kick!
- Crunchy Variation: Substitute cucumber with jicama for an interesting crunchy texture. Its mild sweetness enhances your ceviche’s overall appeal.
- Citrus Blend: Mix in grapefruit juice for a fresh, tangy twist. This citrus addition will create a delightful balance with the avocado and shrimp.
- Creamy Dream: Blend in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess. This variation is perfect for those who love a rich and luscious texture.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder can add depth and a smoky flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. Adjust to taste for a unique twist!
Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the ceviche?
Absolutely! Fresh large shrimp are ideal for this Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro as they provide the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, you may also opt for frozen shrimp, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
How should I store leftover ceviche?
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the ceviche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, keep in mind that the avocado will begin to brown, so for the best presentation and taste, I recommend adding fresh avocado just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and creamy consistency.
Can I freeze shrimp ceviche?
Very! Freezing ceviche is not recommended because the texture of both shrimp and avocado will be compromised once thawed. If you have any left over, it’s best to enjoy it fresh within a day.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
To keep your avocado from browning, add it just before serving. If you need to prep in advance, lightly brush the cut surfaces of the avocado with lime or lemon juice. This citrus acts as a natural preservative and helps maintain its color until you’re ready to enjoy your ceviche.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro is gluten-free and packed with healthy fats from the avocado. Always check for shellfish allergies before serving, and feel free to adjust the heat level by omitting the serrano peppers if you prefer a milder taste.
Zesty Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, gently mix the shrimp, fresh lime juice, and orange juice. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque.
- Add the red onion, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, and optional serrano peppers to the marinated shrimp. Toss gently to combine.
- Fold in the diced avocado carefully just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the ceviche into a bowl and serve it alongside tortilla chips or tostadas.
