Easy Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus
Discover a refreshing Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus recipe, perfect for quick, zesty meals full of vibrant flavors. This dish combines the delightful tang of fresh citrus with creamy avocado and tender shrimp, offering a burst of texture and brightness in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving a light, healthy meal, this ceviche delivers on taste and ease, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to revisit time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Fresh: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for quick meals or last-minute entertaining.
- Bright, Vibrant Flavors: The fresh citrus and herbs create a lively, mouthwatering balance that never gets boring.
- Healthy and Light: Packed with lean protein, heart-healthy fats from avocado, and a burst of vitamins, it’s guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile and Easy to Customize: Adapt the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen or your flavor preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, this ceviche impresses every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus is carefully chosen to contribute bright flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant colors. These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a harmoniously balanced dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing.
- Fresh shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for a tender and juicy base.
- Lime and orange juice: Freshly squeezed citrus juices are key to “cooking” the shrimp and adding zesty brightness.
- Ripe avocado: Adds creamy texture and healthy fats that mellow the acidity.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle crunch and sharp contrast.
- Jalapeño: Optional, for a gentle kick of heat that lifts the dish.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds herbaceous freshness and aroma.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved, they bring juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Sea salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all flavors beautifully.
Variations for Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary preferences or just want to mix things up, here are some fun ways to make the dish your own.
- Mango twist: Swap half the cherry tomatoes for diced mango for a sweeter, tropical flair.
- Spicy boost: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to dial up the heat.
- Herb swap: Try fresh basil or mint instead of cilantro for a unique herbal note.
- Vegetarian version: Replace shrimp with hearts of palm or diced cucumber for a veggie ceviche.
- Extra crunch: Sprinkle toasted pepitas or crushed tortilla chips on top before serving.
How to Make Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
Start by heating water to a gentle boil and blanch shrimp for 2-3 minutes until just cooked through; then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop cooking and retain that perfect texture. Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
Step 2: Marinating in Fresh Citrus
In a large bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, then add the chopped shrimp. Let this mixture marinate for about 15-20 minutes—this citrus marinade gently “cooks” the shrimp further and infuses it with bold, zesty flavors.
Step 3: Adding Fresh Veggies and Herbs
Mix in thinly sliced red onion, diced jalapeño (if using), halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. These ingredients add crunch, freshness, and vibrant colors that pop.
Step 4: Folding in Creamy Avocado
Gently fold in diced ripe avocado just before serving to keep its texture intact and provide a rich contrast to the tangy citrus.
Step 5: Seasoning and Final Touches
Season the ceviche with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust citrus juice or heat intensity based on your preference, and it’s ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus
- Use the freshest ingredients: Fresh shrimp and freshly squeezed juices make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t over-marinate: Keep marinating time within 20 minutes to avoid shrimp becoming tough or overly acidic.
- Choose ripe but firm avocados: So they hold their shape without turning mushy in the ceviche.
- Adjust heat carefully: Add jalapeños gradually to suit your spice tolerance without overpowering.
- Chill before serving: Letting the ceviche rest in the fridge for a short time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus
Garnishes
Top the ceviche with additional chopped cilantro, thin lime wedges for squeezing, and a sprinkle of chili flakes or freshly chopped scallions to add an appealing pop of color and flavor at the table.
Side Dishes
This vibrant ceviche pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or a fresh green salad, creating a complete and satisfying meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the shrimp ceviche in individual small glass bowls or colorful Mexican-style molcajetes for festive presentation, or use avocado halves as natural bowls for a fun twist on plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any remaining Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Avoid mixing in avocado until ready to serve to prevent browning.
Freezing
Freeze this ceviche is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and avocado lose texture and the shrimp may become rubbery once thawed.
Reheating
This ceviche is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature; reheating is not advised as it can alter the texture and flavor detrimentally.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the shrimp before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can dilute the flavors.
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked properly?
The shrimp should turn opaque and pink with firm texture but still tender; blanching for 2-3 minutes is usually perfect.
Can I prepare this ceviche in advance?
You can prep the shrimp and vegetables ahead but combine avocado and citrus-marinated shrimp just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Simply omit the jalapeño or use a small amount of mild pepper for flavor without heat.
Is Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus gluten-free?
Absolutely! This dish contains naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a well-made Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus—its bright, fresh flavors and creamy textures make it irresistible and endlessly enjoyable. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe will become a favorite for those looking to combine simple ingredients into something spectacular. Don’t hesitate to try it out, tweak it your way, and savor every vibrant bite!
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Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus
A refreshing Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado & Fresh Citrus, perfect for quick, light meals bursting with vibrant flavors. Featuring tender shrimp marinated in fresh lime and orange juice, combined with creamy avocado, crisp red onion, jalapeño heat, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant cilantro, this dish offers a perfect balance of zest, texture, and nutrition. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for summer gatherings, healthy snacking, or as a bright appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Blanching and Marinating
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preparing the Shrimp: Heat water to a gentle boil and blanch shrimp for 2-3 minutes until just cooked through; immediately transfer them to ice water to stop cooking and retain a tender texture. Once cooled, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
- Marinating in Fresh Citrus: In a large bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime and orange juices. Add the chopped shrimp and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes, allowing the citrus to gently “cook” the shrimp and infuse it with bold, zesty flavors.
- Adding Fresh Veggies and Herbs: Mix in the thinly sliced red onion, diced jalapeño (if using), halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro, adding crunch, freshness, and vibrant colors to the dish.
- Folding in Creamy Avocado: Just before serving, gently fold in the diced ripe avocado to maintain its texture and provide a creamy contrast to the tangy citrus.
- Seasoning and Final Touches: Season the ceviche with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust citrus juice or heat intensity according to preference, then serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use the freshest ingredients possible for optimal flavor and texture.
- Do not over-marinate the shrimp; keep marination time within 20 minutes to avoid toughness or excessive acidity.
- Choose ripe but firm avocados to prevent mushiness in the ceviche.
- Add jalapeño gradually to control the level of heat without overpowering the dish.
- Chill the ceviche before serving for flavors to meld beautifully.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture loss of vegetables and avocado.
- Enjoy ceviche chilled or at room temperature; reheating is not advised.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: shrimp ceviche, avocado, fresh citrus, healthy appetizer, quick recipe, summer dish, gluten free, light meal, seafood