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I first fell for ceviche during a sunny getaway in Mexico and I've been tweaking this dish ever since! The blend of citrus-soaked shrimp with crunchy fresh veggies makes for such amazing flavor. It's basically a taste of vacation in every spoonful and always takes me back to those relaxing seaside days.
Why This Dish Stands Out
There's something truly special about how a few fresh items transform in ceviche. The tangy citrus-drenched shrimp mixed with snappy veggies and herbs gives you this wonderful explosion of taste with each mouthful. Anyone who samples it can't help but want more!
Ingredients List
- Shrimp: Pick up medium ones as they cut perfectly into bite-size chunks.
- Citrus Juices: You'll need freshly squeezed lime and lemon juice.
- Tomatoes: I love using Roma but whatever's ripe works great.
- Red Onion: Brings that necessary tang and snap.
- Cilantro: Don't skimp here, use plenty.
- Jalapeño: Go lighter or heavier based on what you like.
- Seasonings: Just plain salt and pepper works wonders.
- Avocado: Adds that lovely smooth texture.
- Cucumber: You can skip it but it brings nice crispness.
Preparation Steps
- Prepare The Shrimp
- Give them a fast boil then drop into ice water they'll finish cooking in the juice.
- Combine Ingredients
- Throw everything in except the avocado and cucumber let those flavors start dancing together.
- Rest Period
- Pop it in the fridge for an hour though waiting feels like forever!
- Finishing Touches
- Toss in your avocado and cucumber just as you're ready to eat.
- Time To Enjoy
- Get your favorite chips or tostadas and start munching.
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Tasty Variations
I sometimes swap in fresh white fish for the shrimp or toss in different vegetables to change things up. Adding a dash of hot sauce brings nice heat and some chopped garlic makes the flavor even better. Try throwing in some crunchy radishes or jicama too they're fantastic!
Handy Shortcuts
Try to cut everything roughly the same size so each bite feels balanced. Always wait to add those avocados and cucumbers right at the end they'll keep their texture. And go heavy on the citrus juice that's what really makes ceviche work its magic.
Storage Advice
While it's tastiest when fresh you can keep ceviche in your fridge for about a day. Just remember to throw in fresh avocado and cucumber when you're ready to dig in. The funny thing is the flavors actually get even better after sitting for a few hours!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Why is shrimp cooked first?
Cooking first makes it safe to eat while keeping that fresh flavor.
- → What other seafood can I use?
Try white fish like tilapia, cod, or halibut, but cook it first to stay safe.
- → How long does it stay fresh?
Best enjoyed the same day, but you can refrigerate it for 1-2 days without avocado added.
- → Why remove extra juice?
This optional step keeps it less watery when serving.
- → Want it spicier?
Serrano chili adds more heat, or you can mix in a dash of Mexican hot sauce.