Fresh Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Citrus

Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus

Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish to brighten your meal times? This Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus recipe combines the zesty tang of fresh citrus juices with tender shrimp and creamy avocado, creating a delightful burst of flavors and textures. Perfect for warm weather or as a light appetizer, this recipe is easy to prepare and celebrates the freshness of each ingredient.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bright and refreshing flavors: The fresh citrus juices give the ceviche a lively, tangy punch that wakes up your taste buds.
  • Light yet satisfying: Combining protein-rich shrimp with creamy avocado makes this dish both nutritious and fulfilling.
  • Easy to prepare: With minimal cooking and just a few fresh ingredients, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Perfect for any occasion: Serve it as a stylish appetizer or a light lunch that impresses your guests.
  • Customizable and versatile: You can easily tweak the flavors to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role in ensuring your Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus shines—whether it’s the tang of lime, the creamy avocado, or the fresh crunch of veggies.

  • Fresh shrimp: Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for quick preparation and a tender bite.
  • Fresh citrus juice: A blend of lime, lemon, and orange juice adds brightness and acidity to “cook” the shrimp.
  • Ripe avocados: Creamy and buttery, they add richness and balance to the citrusy flavors.
  • Red onion: Thinly sliced for a slight crunch and a touch of sharpness.
  • Jalapeño or serrano pepper: Adds a gentle kick to spice up the dish, adjustable to taste.
  • Cilantro: Freshly chopped for herbal freshness and vibrant color.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Optional, but they add a pop of sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
  • Olive oil: A drizzle at the end creates a luscious finish.

Variations for Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be tailored to fit different preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and make it your own—substitutions are simple and delicious.

  • Swap proteins: Try using scallops, firm white fish, or even cooked crab meat instead of shrimp.
  • Make it vegan: Replace shrimp with hearts of palm or diced mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
  • Adjust the heat: Use milder peppers or omit them entirely if you prefer a gentler spice.
  • Add fruits: Include diced mango or pineapple to introduce a tropical sweetness.
  • Additional crunch: Toss in finely chopped cucumber or jicama for extra texture.
Fresh Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Citrus

How to Make Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by briefly poaching peeled and deveined shrimp in simmering water until just cooked through, about 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and keep them tender.

Step 2: Marinate in Fresh Citrus

Combine freshly squeezed lime, lemon, and orange juices in a bowl. Add the cooled shrimp and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the citrus to infuse flavor and “cook” the shrimp further.

Step 3: Mix the Veggies and Herbs

While the shrimp marinates, thinly slice red onion, finely chop jalapeño, dice avocado, halve cherry tomatoes, and chop fresh cilantro. These ingredients build complexity and contrast in every bite.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Gently fold the marinated shrimp with the prepared vegetables and herbs. Add salt and pepper to taste, then drizzle with olive oil for richness.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the ceviche chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows flavors to meld beautifully and refreshes the dish.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus

  • Freshness is key: Use the freshest shrimp and citrus juices for the best vibrant flavors.
  • Don’t overcook shrimp: Poach shrimp just until opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Avocado timing: Add avocado last to avoid browning and to maintain creamy texture.
  • Balance acidity: Taste the citrus marinade before adding shrimp and adjust if needed for perfect tang.
  • Serve chilled: Keep the ceviche cold to enhance its refreshing qualities and food safety.

How to Serve Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro, thin slices of fresh chili peppers, or a few radish slices on top to add color and an extra layer of flavor that delights the senses.

Side Dishes

Pair with crunchy tortilla chips, thinly sliced toasted baguette, or fresh leafy greens for a satisfying contrast and easy scooping.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual small glass bowls, hollowed-out avocado halves, or mini martini glasses for a fun and elegant presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally consumed within 24 hours to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for ceviche because the texture of avocado and the delicate seafood can be compromised upon thawing.

Reheating

This dish is designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve the fresh, bright flavors and creamy avocado texture.

FAQs

Can I use raw shrimp for this ceviche?

Yes, if using very fresh, sushi-grade shrimp, it can be “cooked” directly in the citrus juice, but briefly poaching is safer and more reliable for texture.

How long should I marinate the shrimp in citrus juice?

About 15-20 minutes is sufficient to impart flavor and gently “cook” the shrimp while maintaining tender texture.

Can I prepare the ceviche ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp and citrus components in advance, but it’s best to add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.

What can I substitute for fresh cilantro if I don’t like it?

Fresh parsley or chopped basil works well as a mild, herbaceous alternative to cilantro.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spice depends on how much jalapeño or serrano you include; feel free to omit or adjust according to your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus is a truly delightful recipe that brings the freshness of the sea and bright, sunny citrus right to your table. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or looking to impress at your next gathering, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite summer treat!

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Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus

This Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring tender shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of lime, lemon, and orange juices, combined with creamy avocado and fresh vegetables. Perfect as a light appetizer or lunch, it offers a bright, tangy punch complemented by the richness of avocado and a gentle hint of spice. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this ceviche celebrates fresh ingredients and is customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Poaching and Marinating
  • Cuisine: Latin American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Citrus Marinade

  • 12 oz fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 small jalapeño or serrano pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Seasoning and Finishing

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Briefly poach peeled and deveined shrimp in simmering water until just cooked through, about 2 minutes. Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and keep them tender.
  2. Marinate in Fresh Citrus: In a bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime, lemon, and orange juices. Add the cooled shrimp and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. This allows the citrus to infuse flavor and further “cook” the shrimp.
  3. Mix the Veggies and Herbs: While the shrimp marinates, thinly slice the red onion, finely chop the jalapeño pepper, dice the avocados, halve the cherry tomatoes if using, and chop the fresh cilantro. These ingredients add texture, flavor, and freshness to the ceviche.
  4. Combine and Season: Gently fold the marinated shrimp with the prepared vegetables and herbs. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil to add richness and a luscious finish.
  5. Chill and Serve: Let the ceviche chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the refreshing qualities of the dish.

Notes

  • Use the freshest shrimp and citrus juices available to ensure vibrant flavors.
  • Poach shrimp just until opaque to avoid toughness and maintain a tender texture.
  • Add avocado last to prevent browning and maintain its creamy texture.
  • Taste the citrus marinade before adding shrimp and adjust acidity if needed for perfect tang.
  • Keep the ceviche chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities and ensure food safety.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg

Keywords: shrimp ceviche, avocado, fresh citrus, lime, lemon, orange juice, appetizer, light meal, gluten free

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