How to Make Shrimp Ceviche

The citrus flavors, tender shrimp, and vibrant vegetables in this dish come together to create a fresh and delicious masterpiece. Ceviche is one of those fancy-looking meals that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s perfect as an appetizer, a light snack, or even a main dish on a hot summer day.

You might be surprised, but there’s no actual cooking involved—the citrus juice does all the work! It naturally "cooks" the shrimp until it’s tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. Plus, shrimp isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with protein, low in calories, and a great source of essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Add some fresh veggies and creamy avocado, and you’ve got a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

In this blog, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the best shrimp ceviche. With these simple tips and easy customizations, you’ll be serving up a dish that everyone loves in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: No stove? No problem! As I said, this recipe uses fresh citrus juices to “cook” the shrimp, keeping the process simple and fuss-free.
• Healthy & Fresh: Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats from avocado, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Whether you love heat, prefer mild flavors, or want to load up on veggies, this recipe adapts to your tastes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From summer BBQs to cozy nights in, ceviche is versatile enough for all settings.

Ingredients

• • Shrimp (peeled, deveined)
  • Citrus Juices
  • Tomatoes (deseed and chopped)
  • Red Onion
  • Jalapeño (seed removed by jalapeño corer)
  • Cilantro
  • Avocado
  • Tortilla Chips

How to Make Shrimp Ceviche

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

• In a large bowl, combine peeled and deveined shrimp with lemon and lime juices squeezed using a stainless steel lemon squeezer.
  
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The acidity of the citrus juice will “cook” the shrimp, turning them pink and opaque.

Zulay Says: If you’re in a rush, chop the shrimp into smaller pieces. They’ll cook faster and absorb more flavor.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

• Once the shrimp are ready, mix in chopped red onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, and fresh cilantro.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Fold in the Avocado

• Using a silicone spatula, gently fold in diced avocado to add creaminess without breaking up the pieces.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

• Transfer the ceviche to a serving dish, garnish with extra cilantro, and serve cold with tortilla chips.

Zulay's Expert Tips for the Best Shrimp Ceviche

• Use the freshest shrimp and vegetables you can find for optimal flavor.
• Love spice? Add extra jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce. Prefer mild? Skip the jalapeño altogether.
• Leaving the shrimp in citrus for too long can make them rubbery. One hour is just right!
• Ceviche can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Just wait to add the avocado until serving to prevent browning.
• Stick to glass or stainless steel for marinating to avoid any metallic taste.

Shrimp Ceviche Creative Variations

• Add More Veggies: Dice up cucumber, bell peppers, or even radishes for extra crunch.
• Make It Tropical: Toss in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist.
• Try Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for scallops, fish, or even a mix of seafood for a unique take.
• Serve It Differently: Skip the chips and spoon ceviche into small cups or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Why Shrimp Ceviche Is Perfect for Summer

Ceviche is light, and refreshing, and pairs beautifully with cold drinks. So, if you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or need a quick dish to impress last-minute guests, this recipe has your back.

Plus, the vibrant colors and bold flavors make it an instant showstopper. Just imagine setting down a bowl of this ceviche and watching everyone’s faces light up—it’s the kind of dish that brings people together.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

Shrimp ceviche is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor—all with minimal effort required. 

What makes ceviche truly special is how easily you can customize it. Want to make it spicier? Throw in a bit more jalapeño or your favorite hot sauce. Looking for a touch of sweetness? Mango or pineapple would do wonders. The possibilities are endless, and the result is always a hit.

Also, it’s perfect for warm weather—no cooking required! Just chop, mix, and let the citrus do its magic. You'll find that every bite is bursting with flavor, and it’s the kind of dish that sparks conversation and brings people together.

So, next time you're in need of a quick, refreshing meal, look no further than this shrimp ceviche recipe. It’s easy, healthy, and guaranteed to elevate your next gathering!

Don’t forget to share your ceviche creations with us! Tag @zulay_kitchen and use #kitchenhappiness to join the fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but the texture and flavor won’t be quite the same. Raw shrimp marinated in citrus juice is the traditional method and yields the best results.

How long can I store leftover ceviche?

Shrimp ceviche is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I make ceviche spicy?

Absolutely! Add more jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.