Name: Zesty Shrimp Ceviche with Clamato for a Refreshing Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) (Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor.); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (Essential for tangy ceviche taste—always opt for fresh juice!); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (Complements lime juice with added acidity for balance.); 1/2 small red onion, finely diced (Adds a crisp texture and sharpness.); 3 roma tomatoes, diced (Provides sweetness; feel free to substitute with your favorite tomato variety.); 1 medium avocado, diced (Gives creaminess that beautifully balances the citrus.); 1 jalapeno, minced (Contributes heat and flavor; swap with a bell pepper for crunch without spice.); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (Enhances flavor with herbal notes; use parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite.); 1 cup clamato juice (Adds unique depth and flavor.); salt & pepper (To taste; essential for enhancing all ingredient flavors.)

There’s something incredibly invigorating about the first bite of a crisp, refreshing Shrimp Ceviche—especially when the summer sun beckons. It’s an appetizer that effortlessly combines sweet shrimp with zesty citrus and luscious avocado, making it a crowd-favorite for any gathering. What I adore about this recipe is how quick it is to whip up; in under 30 minutes, you can serve something that feels gourmet yet fun! Plus, it’s a healthy alternative to greasy fast food, perfect for those seeking a burst of flavor without the guilt. So, how about we dive into this vibrant dish that promises to transport your taste buds to a sunny beachside?

Why is Shrimp Ceviche So Irresistible?

Freshness is at the heart of this dish, showcasing the sweet shrimp in a vibrant mix of zesty citrus and creamy avocado. Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking and a total prep time of under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Versatile: Switch up the ingredients, like adding a tropical twist with mango, to easily adjust to your taste. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at parties, and watch as it disappears in no time! Pair it with tasty sides like Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a complete seafood experience. Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that dazzles the palate!

Shrimp Ceviche Ingredients

• Dive into this refreshing recipe with a perfect blend of flavors!

For the Ceviche
Shrimp – 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Fresh Lime Juice – ¼ cup (about 2-3 limes); essential for tangy ceviche taste—always opt for fresh juice!
Fresh Lemon Juice – ¼ cup (about 2 lemons); complements lime juice with added acidity for balance.
Red Onion – ½ small, finely diced; adds a crisp texture and sharpness—shallots can be a milder alternative.
Roma Tomatoes – 3, diced; provides sweetness; feel free to substitute with your favorite tomato variety.
Avocado – 1 medium, diced; gives creaminess that beautifully balances the citrus—store leftovers properly.
Jalapeno – 1 (seeds removed and minced); contributes heat and flavor; swap with a bell pepper for crunch without spice.
Fresh Cilantro – ½ cup, chopped; enhances flavor with herbal notes; use parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
Clamato Juice – 1 cup; adds unique depth and flavor; tomato juice can work but results will vary.
Salt & Pepper – To taste; essential for enhancing all ingredient flavors—season sparingly and adjust as needed.

Make your own delightful Shrimp Ceviche and experience a vibrant taste sensation!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Ceviche

Step 1: Boil the Shrimp
Begin by bringing a medium pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes, or until they turn fully opaque and pink. This quick cooking process should be watched closely to avoid overcooking, which can make the shrimp tough.

Step 2: Ice Bath for Shrimp
Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. Let it sit for about 2–3 minutes until the shrimp are thoroughly chilled. This step not only stops the cooking but also keeps the shrimp tender. Once cooled, drain and chop the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Marinate with Citrus
In a glass bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with ¼ cup of fresh lime juice and ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to coat all the shrimp pieces evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the citrus flavors to infuse into the shrimp.

Step 4: Add Fresh Ingredients
After marinating, remove the bowl from the fridge. Stir in the finely diced red onion, diced roma tomatoes, chopped avocado, minced jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Each ingredient enhances the profile of this Shrimp Ceviche, so mix gently until everything is evenly combined, taking care not to mash the avocado.

Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, pour in 1 cup of Clamato juice and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything lightly to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Serve your refreshing Shrimp Ceviche chilled, ideally alongside crispy tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer that your guests will love!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Ceviche

Fridge: Consume shrimp ceviche fresh, ideally within a few hours for the best texture and flavor. If needed, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but the avocado may brown.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp ceviche as the texture of the shrimp and vegetables will suffer once thawed. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
Airtight Container: If storing in the fridge, use an airtight container to prevent contamination and preserve flavors. Be sure to place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface to minimize air exposure.
Reheating: Reheating shrimp ceviche is not advisable. The citrus marinade is meant to serve it cold, enhancing the refreshing experience of this delightful dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Ceviche are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the shrimp and marinate it in the citrus juices up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors deepen while the shrimp stays delicious and tender. Additionally, the chopped veggies (red onion, tomatoes, jalapeno, and cilantro) can be prepared up to 3 days prior and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just avoid adding the avocado until you’re ready to serve, as it tends to brown quickly. When it’s time to enjoy, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the marinated shrimp and Clamato juice, season, and serve chilled for a refreshing treat that’s just as flavorful as fresh!

What to Serve with Refreshing Shrimp Ceviche with Clamato

Transform your Shrimp Ceviche into a full course experience with these delightful additions that tantalize the taste buds.

Tortilla Chips: These provide a crunchy contrast to the ceviche’s creamy avocado, ideal for scooping up every zesty bite.
Crisp Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette offers freshness and balances the rich flavors of the ceviche.
Corn Salsa: Sweet corn mixed with diced peppers and onions adds a vibrant pop of sweetness that complements the tangy shrimp well.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread mirrors the ceviche’s ingredients, creating a fun twist that enhances the dish’s essence.
Margaritas: A zesty lime margarita pairs wonderfully, adding a festive flair while echoing the ceviche’s citrus notes. Sip and savor!
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevates the experience, balancing the flavors with its refreshing acidity.
Fruit Salad: A medley of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple provides a refreshing and sweet bite that enhances the ceviche’s summery vibes.
Seafood Skewers: Grilled shrimp or scallops on skewers offer an added protein element that complements the ceviche beautifully.
Key Lime Pie: For dessert, this tangy treat echoes the tart flavor profile of the ceviche, ending the meal on a zesty note.
Coconut Water: A light beverage option that pairs stunningly with the shrimp ceviche, providing hydration and enhancing the tropical theme.

Shrimp Ceviche Variations & Substitutions

Inviting you to put your own spin on this delicious shrimp ceviche, let your creativity shine through as you mix and match!

Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for a burst of sweetness and a cheerful color contrast.
Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops or firm fish like tilapia for a delightful variation that still feels fresh and vibrant.
Milder Option: Omit the jalapeno or switch to a non-spicy pepper for those who prefer a more subtle heat level.
Citrus Boost: Experiment with orange or grapefruit juice in place of lime or lemon for a different zesty dimension.
Herb Change: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, parsley or even fresh mint can add a wonderfully unique flavor to your ceviche.
Clamato Alternative: Swap Clamato for a good quality tomato juice if you don’t have it on hand, keeping in mind the flavor profile shifts slightly.
Vegetable Crunch: Toss in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch that complements the soft shrimp and creamy avocado.
Flavor Infusion: Include a dash of hot sauce or diced avocado for an extra kick and richness, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Try these variations and make each batch of shrimp ceviche uniquely yours! Looking for more delicious seafood inspiration? Don’t miss trying the delightful Cheese Shrimp Penne or the refreshing Shrimp Avocado Bowls. Each brings its own twist to the table!

Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp Ceviche

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and produce for the best flavor in your shrimp ceviche; frozen shrimp can result in a less tender texture.
Marination Timing: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes in the citrus juice to fully absorb the flavors, but not longer than 30 minutes to prevent over-cooking.
Even Chopping: Chop all ingredients uniformly to ensure consistent texture and flavor distribution in the shrimp ceviche; this enhances presentation and enjoyment.
Careful Seasoning: Start with a pinch of salt and pepper; you can always add more to suit your taste, but it’s hard to correct over-seasoning.
Avocado Storage: If you have leftover avocado, store it with lime juice and tightly cover to minimize browning before adding to the dish.

Shrimp Ceviche Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for ceviche?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp for ceviche, look for raw shrimp that is firm, translucent, and free of any dark spots or off-putting smells. Fresh, wild-caught shrimp from local markets are often the best choice for flavor and sustainability. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they have been properly thawed and kept at a consistent cold temperature to maintain freshness.

What is the best way to store leftover shrimp ceviche?
Very important! Store leftover shrimp ceviche in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the best texture and prevent the avocado from browning, consume it within 24 hours. If packed properly, it can still taste great up to that mark, but fresher is always better. To minimize air exposure, press a layer of plastic wrap onto the surface of the ceviche before sealing the container.

Can I freeze shrimp ceviche?
Oh, it’s not recommended to freeze shrimp ceviche. The texture of the shrimp and vegetables will deteriorate upon thawing, making it watery and less appealing. It’s best enjoyed fresh for an optimal taste sensation! If you want to prepare ahead, consider pre-cutting the veggies and keeping the marinade separate until you’re ready to serve.

What should I do if my ceviche is too salty?
No worries, you can fix that! If your ceviche turns out too salty, try adding more diced tomatoes or avocado to balance the flavors. You could also mix in a little more lime or lemon juice for acidity, which can help mellow out the saltiness. If you’ve used Clamato juice, be mindful of its sodium content; using a low-sodium version can help prevent this issue in the future.

Is shrimp ceviche safe for everyone, including kids and pets?
Absolutely! While shrimp ceviche is generally safe for most people, be cautious with young children, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems, as consuming raw seafood can pose some risk. As for pets, it’s best to avoid giving them shrimp ceviche, especially with added ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult your veterinarian if unsure about what human foods are safe for your pets.