Craving a vibrant, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful dish that's ready in minutes? Look no further than this Mexican Ceviche de Camaron recipe! This classic seafood dish is bursting with zesty lime juice, spicy jalapeños, and succulent shrimp, making it the perfect appetizer, light lunch, or even a unique dinner option. It's a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple yet impressive flavors – perfect for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped mango or pineapple for added sweetness
- Tortilla chips or crackers for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the shrimp into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to eat.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large glass or ceramic bowl (avoid using metal as it can react with the lime juice), combine the shrimp and lime juice. Ensure the shrimp are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The lime juice will “cook” the shrimp, turning them opaque and firm. Over-marinating can make the shrimp tough, so keep an eye on the time.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the red onion, cucumber, tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños, and orange juice to the bowl. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using mango or pineapple, add it now.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Gently fold in the diced avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning. Serve your Ceviche de Camaron immediately with tortilla chips or crackers. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ceviche:
- Use the freshest ingredients possible: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor of the ceviche.
- Don't over-marinate the shrimp: Over-marinating can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder ceviche, reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the ceviche and adjust the salt, pepper, and lime juice to your preference.
Variations:
- Ceviche with different seafood: Try substituting the shrimp with other types of seafood, such as scallops, fish (such as snapper or mahi-mahi), or a combination.
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or corn.
- Citrus variations: Experiment with other citrus juices like grapefruit or a combination of lime and lemon for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Mexican Ceviche de Camaron recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. The vibrant flavors and refreshing taste will surely become a new favorite in your recipe collection, proving that homemade cooking can be both easy and incredibly rewarding. Enjoy!