Ceviche is a delightful and refreshing dish that is perfect for warm weather or as a light appetizer. Made with fresh seafood and a tangy citrus marinade, ceviche is both healthy and bursting with flavor. Best of all, it can be prepared in minutes! In this blog post, we’ll share some simple and quick ceviche recipes that you can whip up in no time.
Why Choose Ceviche?
Ceviche offers numerous benefits:
- Healthy: Packed with protein and low in fat, ceviche is a nutritious option.
- Refreshing: The citrus marinade and fresh ingredients make for a light and zesty dish.
- Quick and Easy: No cooking required, ceviche is ready in minutes.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite seafood and vegetables.
Quick Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using raw shrimp, briefly boil them until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and let cool. If using pre-cooked shrimp, skip this step.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Pour the lime and lemon juice over the shrimp, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let sit for 10 minutes to marinate.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the red onion, jalapeño, tomatoes, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with Avocado: Gently fold in the diced avocado just before serving.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp ceviche with tortilla chips.
Quick Fish Ceviche Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh white fish (such as tilapia or sea bass), diced
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1-2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Fish: Place the diced fish in a bowl and pour the lime and orange juice over it. Ensure the fish is fully submerged and let sit for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the fish ceviche on lettuce leaves.
Tips for Perfect Ceviche
- Use Fresh Seafood: The quality of the seafood is crucial for the best ceviche. Always use the freshest fish or shrimp available.
- Citrus Juice: The acidity in lime and lemon juice “cooks” the seafood, so make sure you use enough juice to cover the seafood completely.
- Don’t Over-Marinate: Marinating for too long can result in tough seafood. Stick to the recommended times for the best texture.
Health Benefits of Ceviche
Ceviche is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- High in Protein: Provides a good source of lean protein.
- Rich in Vitamins: Packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables and citrus juice.
- Low in Calories: A light and healthy dish that’s perfect for weight management.
Conclusion
Quick and easy ceviche is a fantastic dish that you can prepare in minutes. With its refreshing flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try these recipes and enjoy a taste of the coast right at home.
