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Classic Mexican-Style Shrimp Ceviche

Close-up of bright, juicy shrimp ceviche mixed with diced red onion, tomato, and cilantro on a white plate.

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Make this easy shrimp ceviche recipe using fresh ingredients cured perfectly in lime juice. This refreshing summer seafood dish is a simple appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked (or use raw shrimp for traditional curing)
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 810 limes)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 cup diced ripe tomato
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your heat preference)
  • 1/4 cup clamato juice (optional, for flavor depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. If using raw shrimp, cut the shrimp into 1/2-inch pieces. If using pre-cooked shrimp, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place the shrimp in a non-reactive bowl (glass or ceramic).
  2. Pour the lime juice and lemon juice over the shrimp, ensuring the shrimp is fully submerged.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Allow the shrimp to cure for at least 30 minutes if using pre-cooked shrimp, or 1 to 2 hours if using raw shrimp, until the shrimp turns opaque and firm. This step is key for perfectly cured shrimp ceviche.
  4. Drain off about half of the citrus juice from the bowl.
  5. Add the diced red onion, tomato, cilantro, and minced pepper to the shrimp mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  6. If using, stir in the clamato juice. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  7. Refrigerate for another 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve cold, garnished with diced avocado.

Notes

  • For the safest preparation, use high-quality, previously frozen and thawed shrimp, or shrimp that has been cooked briefly before marinating.
  • Serve your vibrant citrus cured shrimp with tortilla chips, tostadas, or saltine crackers.
  • If you prefer a less spicy dish, remove all seeds and white membranes from the pepper before mincing.

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