Appetizer & Dessert

Ceviche – Recipes From Chef

Name: Ceviche – Recipes From Chef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 51 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 medium ripe avocado, diced; 1 1/4 lbs. medium-sized shrimp, peeled, deveined, and with tails removed; 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and diced; 1/2 medium cucumber, peeled and diced; 2 medium Roma tomatoes, finely diced; 3/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Rosa Crumley May 24, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 51 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Ceviche is a bright, tangy dish that shines with the right pairings to elevate its fresh flavors. These sides add texture, balance, and depth to your meal.

Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping, providing a salty contrast. Creamy avocado toast, especially with lime zest, complements the ceviche’s tanginess beautifully.

Fluffy rice or nutty quinoa serve as satisfying bases, soaking up the zesty juices. A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites.

Now that you’re equipped with pairing suggestions, let’s jump into the rich world of ceviche.

What is Ceviche?

Ceviche is a traditional dish, usually made with fresh fish or seafood that is marinated in citrus, primarily lime or lemon. The acid in the juices “cooks” the seafood, transforming its texture and flavor.

While ceviche originated in Peru, it has spread throughout Latin America with regional variations, making it a versatile staple.

Why This Recipe Works?

This ceviche recipe stands out for several reasons.

Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh seafood ensures quality. You’ll notice the difference in flavor and texture. Freshness is the cornerstone of great ceviche.
Balanced Flavors: The combination of citrus, spices, and herbs creates a fiesta on your taste buds. Each ingredient plays a crucial role.
Quick and Easy Preparation: Ceviche is simple to whip up. A little chopping and mixing is all it requires. Perfect for busy people!
Healthy and Light: Packed with seafood and veggies, it’s nutritious. Low in calories and high in flavor, it makes for guilt-free dining.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Ceviche

For this vibrant dish, gather the following:

1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 medium ripe avocado, diced
1 1/4 lbs. medium-sized shrimp, peeled, deveined, and with tails removed
1 medium jalapeño, seeded and diced
1/2 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
2 medium Roma tomatoes, finely diced
3/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make This Ceviche

Ready to create this fresh dish? Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by ensuring the shrimp is fresh. Rinse it under cold water. Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will “cook” in the citrus juices.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

In a glass bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lime juice, and lemon juice. Make sure the shrimp is entirely submerged in the citrus mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. As the shrimp sits, it will turn opaque – this means it’s ready!

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

While the shrimp marinates, chop your veggies. Dice the cucumber, jalapeño, and tomatoes. Finely chop the red onion and cilantro. The key here is uniformity in size for an even texture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the shrimp is marinated, add the diced vegetables to the bowl. Gently fold them in. This is where the magic really begins – the colors and textures blend beautifully.

Step 5: Season Your Ceviche

Drizzle in the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, add more jalapeño.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately for the best texture. Spoon this delightful ceviche into bowls, and if you like, garnish with extra cilantro. Remember those tortilla chips? You arranged them perfectly, right? Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Ceviche

Here are some expert tips to up your ceviche game:

Use High-Quality Seafood: Freshness affects taste directly. Visit your local fishmonger for the best selection.
Don’t Over-Marinate: Too much time in the citrus can lead to a rubbery texture. Stick to about 30 minutes for shrimp.
Taste as You Go: Always sample your ceviche. Adjust flavors to match your palate.
Keep It Chilled: Serve ceviche cold. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve for the best experience.
Make It Ahead: While best eaten fresh, it can sit in the fridge for a few hours. Just add the avocado right before serving to avoid browning.

How to Store the Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 24 hours for the best taste and texture. Avoid freezing, as it affects the seafood quality.

Recommended Side Dishes for Ceviche

If you want to complete your meal, consider these delightful sides:

Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness. Brush with lime and chili powder for a fun twist.
Plantain Chips: Crunchy and slightly sweet, these are a great contrast to the zesty ceviche.
Tostones: Fried green plantains offer a delightful crunch. Their salty nature balances the ceviche’s flavors.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Creamy and tangy, this dish is a party in your mouth. It’s full of flavor and complements the ceviche beautifully.

Substitute Options for the Ingredients

Sometimes, you may find yourself lacking an ingredient or two. No worries! Here are some substitutes:

Shrimp: For those not into shrimp, try scallops or firm white fish like halibut.
Citrus Juices: Try a mix of orange juice with Meyer lemon for a different flavor profile.
Cucumber: If you have zucchini, it can work just as well. Dice it small for a similar crunch.
Jalapeño: Use a milder pepper like a banana pepper if spice isn’t your thing.

Conclusion

Ceviche is more than just a dish. It represents a vibrant culture and showcases the joy of fresh ingredients. With a simple recipe and a few tips, you can create a refreshing treat that dazzles and delights. Pair it with friends, good sides, and a healthy appetite.

Now that you know how to prepare ceviche, it’s your turn.

Dive into this delightful dish, enjoy every bite, and make mealtime memories that last. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy dinner, this ceviche will surely bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Ceviche – Recipes From Chef

Author: Rosa Crumley Cuisine: Peruvian Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 1 min Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 51 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 174 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ceviche is a dish that tells a delicious story. It's fresh, zesty, and full of life. Imagine sitting by the beach, the ocean breeze tousling your hair, as you savor fish marinated in citrus juices. It's more than a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and culinary art.

In this post, we’ll explore ceviche in detail. I’ll walk you through what makes it special, how to make it, and even how to store those tempting leftovers. Trust me, once you’ve tasted ceviche, you’ll see why it has captured the hearts of so many.