Name: Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound peeled and deveined raw medium shrimp, thawed if frozen; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2 lemons); 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from 2 to 3 limes); 2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped; 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (about 3 tablespoons); 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 medium avocado, diced; Tostadas or tortilla chips, for serving (optional)

If you’ve ever wanted to impress friends with a fresh, zesty dish that comes together in no time, this Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe is your new best friend. Juicy shrimp bathed in vibrant citrus juices mingle with crisp veggies and herbaceous cilantro, creating a flavor explosion that’s as refreshing as it is addictive. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon snack or the star of a casual dinner, this recipe brings a delightful combination of textures and tastes that’s impossible not to love. Let me show you how easy it is to bring this coastal favorite right to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl on the right side filled with small, light orange and white shrimp pieces forming one layer. A woman's hand is pouring a pale yellow liquid into the shrimp bowl. On the left side of the white marbled surface, three smaller clear glass bowls are arranged: the top bowl has bright red small diced pieces, the middle bowl holds finely chopped pink and white onions, and the bottom bowl contains dark green chopped pieces. Part of a fourth bowl with fine white granules is seen at the bottom left corner. A blue cloth with a wooden utensil peeks from the bottom right corner under the shrimp bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its fresh ingredients. Each component plays a special role, from the bright acidity of the lemon and lime juices that “cook” the shrimp, to the crunchy onion and spicy jalapeño adding a punch of flavor and texture. You’ll love how these basic ingredients come together effortlessly to create something truly spectacular.

1 pound peeled and deveined raw medium shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp provide a tender and delicious base for the dish.
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2 lemons): Offers bright citrus notes and helps cure the shrimp.
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from 2 to 3 limes): Adds a zesty tang that complements the lemon perfectly.
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped: Bring refreshing juiciness and a pop of color.
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped: Adds a crisp bite and subtle sweetness to balance the acidity.
1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (about 3 tablespoons): Provides just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems: Infuses the ceviche with herbal brightness and a unique aroma.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and ties everything together.
1 medium avocado: Adds creamy richness to contrast the citrusy sharpness.
Tostadas or tortilla chips, for serving (optional): Perfect for scooping up the ceviche and adding an extra crunch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

First, you’ll want to quickly blanch your shrimp. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the shrimp and cook for just 2 to 3 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. This step ensures the shrimp is perfectly tender without overcooking it, which can make the shrimp rubbery.

Step 2: Juice the Citrus

While the shrimp cools, squeeze fresh lemons and limes to yield about 1/4 cup each of juice. The freshly squeezed juices are the magic that “cook” the shrimp’s flavor in this ceviche. Avoid bottled juice here as fresh juice adds brightness and complexity you just cannot match.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables and Herbs

Next, seed and chop the tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, seed and mince the jalapeño, and roughly chop the cilantro. These fresh ingredients bring texture and a color palette that makes the dish come alive visually as well as in flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Season

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled shrimp with the lemon and lime juices, then add the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Season with kosher salt to taste and gently combine everything. The shrimp will soak up those zesty juices, making each bite vibrant and tangy.

Step 5: Add Creamy Avocado

Right before serving, dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces and gently fold it into the ceviche. The creamy avocado balances the tart citrus beautifully and adds a luscious mouthfeel to the entire dish.

How to Serve Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe

A clear glass bowl is filled with a shrimp salad made of small pink shrimp pieces mixed with bits of green herbs and small red tomato pieces, covered tightly with transparent plastic wrap. The bowl is being held by two woman's hands above a wooden cutting board, which has chopped green avocado pieces on the left side. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, and there is a hint of a blue cloth on the right edge of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of jalapeño can make your Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe really pop. A few cracked black peppercorns or an extra dash of kosher salt just before serving also elevate the flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve your ceviche with crisp tostadas, crunchy tortilla chips, or even as a topping for fresh avocado halves. A fresh green salad or a light, chilled white wine pairs wonderfully and turns this simple dish into a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the ceviche in small individual glasses or hollowed-out lime halves for an impressive presentation at parties. You can also layer it over a bed of crunchy shredded lettuce to add another texture layer and keep things visually stunning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 1 to 2 days for best flavor and freshness. The citrus juice continues to “cook” the shrimp, so the texture will change slightly over time.

Freezing

Freezing ceviche is generally not recommended because the texture of the shrimp and vegetables can become mushy when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh for that perfect bite every time.

Reheating

Since this ceviche is served cold, reheating is unnecessary and would detract from its crisp and refreshing qualities. Simply stir and serve straight from the fridge when ready to enjoy again.

FAQs

Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp in this Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer to start with cooked shrimp, simply skip the blanching step and proceed with chopping and combining. The citrus will still add great flavor, but the shrimp won’t get that “cured” texture raw shrimp would get.

How long does it take for ceviche to “cook” in the citrus juice?

In this recipe, the shrimp is briefly boiled first, so the citrus primarily adds flavor rather than fully curing raw seafood. If using raw shrimp, it typically needs 15 to 30 minutes in the citrus juice to become fully “cooked.”

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes! Simply reduce or omit the jalapeño, or remove the seeds before chopping to lessen the heat while keeping the flavor intact.

What’s the best way to serve shrimp ceviche at a party?

Serve it chilled in small bowls, on crisp tostadas, or in mini cups with a tasting spoon. Adding colorful garnishes helps make it visually appealing and easy for guests to enjoy.

Is this Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe gluten free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you serve it with gluten-free chips or tostadas. It’s a fantastic option if you’re cooking for friends with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that come together quickly and wonderfully. Whether you’re whipping it up for a laid-back weekend or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and compliments. So grab your ingredients, embrace the zest, and enjoy the bright burst of flavor that only a well-made ceviche can deliver!

Easy Shrimp Ceviche Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need