Avocado Shrimp Ceviche: Fresh, Flavorful, and Light

Avocado Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing, zesty dish perfect for summer, parties, or a light meal. This ceviche features tender shrimp marinated in lime juice and mixed with creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro. The result is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s healthy and satisfying.

Ceviche is a traditional Latin American dish where seafood is “cooked” in citrus juice, which adds bright, fresh flavor without heat. By combining shrimp and avocado, this recipe balances protein with healthy fats for a nutrient-packed appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut into small pieces
• Lime Juice: 1/2 cup freshly squeezed
• Avocado: 2 medium, diced
• Tomatoes: 1 cup, diced
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
• Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Jalapeño: 1 small, seeded and minced (optional)
• Salt & Pepper: To taste
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (optional for added richness)

Instructions

1. Marinate shrimp: Place shrimp in a bowl and pour lime juice over them. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes, or until shrimp turn opaque and “cooked.”
2. Prepare vegetables: While shrimp marinate, dice avocado and tomatoes, chop red onion and cilantro, and mince jalapeño if using.
3. Combine ingredients: Gently mix marinated shrimp with avocado, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño in a large bowl.
4. Season: Add salt, pepper, and olive oil (optional) to taste. Mix carefully to avoid mashing the avocado.
5. Chill: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Serve cold in small bowls, with tortilla chips, tostadas, or as a light main dish.

Tips for the Best Avocado Shrimp Ceviche

• Fresh shrimp: Use the freshest shrimp possible for safety and taste.
• Acidity balance: Adjust lime juice to taste—enough to “cook” the shrimp but not overpower the avocado.
• Avocado choice: Use ripe but firm avocados to maintain texture.
• Make ahead: Ceviche is best served within a few hours of mixing. Avoid making too far in advance to prevent avocado browning.

Avocado Shrimp Ceviche

A fresh and flavorful ceviche featuring tender shrimp, creamy avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro marinated in lime juice.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Appetizer, Main Dish

Cuisine: Latin American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Seafood

• 1 lb raw shrimp peeled, deveined, cut into small pieces
• 0.5 cup lime juice freshly squeezed

Vegetables & Herbs

• 2 avocados diced
• 1 cup tomatoes diced
• 0.25 cup red onion finely chopped
• 0.25 cup cilantro chopped
• 1 jalapeño seeded and minced, optional

Seasoning & Oil

• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil optional

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Refrigerator

Method

 

1. Place shrimp in a bowl and pour lime juice over them. Cover and refrigerate 20–30 minutes until shrimp turn opaque.
2. Dice avocado and tomatoes, chop red onion and cilantro, and mince jalapeño if using.
3. Combine marinated shrimp with avocado, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño in a large bowl.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil if desired. Mix gently to avoid mashing avocado.
5. Refrigerate 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold with tortilla chips or tostadas.

Notes

Best served fresh within a few hours of preparation to maintain avocado texture and shrimp flavor.

Variations

1. Tropical twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for sweetness.
2. Spicy kick: Include more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Mediterranean flavor: Swap cilantro for parsley and add diced cucumber.
4. Coconut ceviche: Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with tortilla chips or tostadas as a light appetizer.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.
• Enjoy as a refreshing main dish on warm summer days.

Fun Fact

Ceviche dates back to pre-Columbian times in Peru, where it was made with local fish and lime juice. Shrimp ceviche is a popular modern variation that incorporates tropical flavors like avocado and cilantro for a fresh, bright dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour.
• Healthy & Light: Protein-rich and full of fresh vegetables.
• Fresh Flavors: Bright citrus and herbs elevate the shrimp.
• Versatile: Perfect for parties, dinners, or light lunches.