Light Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

Featured in: Snack & Starter Ideas

This vibrant dish features tender shrimp gently marinated in a blend of lime, lemon, and orange juices, infusing a bright, zesty flavor. Crisp vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion complement the citrus notes, while fresh cilantro and ripe avocado add rich, herbaceous and creamy textures. Lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil, this dish is chilled and served fresh, making it ideal for warm days or as a light, flavorful starter.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 12:52:00 GMT
Vibrant and fresh shrimp ceviche, bursting with citrus flavors, perfect for a refreshing appetizer or light meal. Save to Pinterest
Vibrant and fresh shrimp ceviche, bursting with citrus flavors, perfect for a refreshing appetizer or light meal. | metrochop.com

A vibrant, zesty appetizer featuring tender shrimp marinated in citrus juice with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs—perfect for a refreshing starter or a light meal bowl.

This shrimp ceviche has been a favorite in my family for summer gatherings because of its fresh flavors and easy prep.

Ingredients

  • Seafood: 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed)
  • Marinade: 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes), 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons), 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
  • Vegetables & Fruits: 1 small red onion, finely diced, 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, quartered, 1 small cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced, 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional adjust to taste), 1 ripe avocado, diced, 1/2 cup (20 g) fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Seasoning: 1/2 tsp sea salt or to taste, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • To Serve: Tortilla chips or tostadas (optional), Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1:
If using raw shrimp bring a pot of salted water to a boil Add shrimp and cook for 1 2 minutes just until they turn pink and opaque Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking Drain again pat dry and cut shrimp into 1/2-inch pieces (If using pre-cooked shrimp simply chop)
Step 2:
In a large glass or ceramic bowl combine shrimp with lime lemon and orange juices Stir well cover and refrigerate for 20 30 minutes to marinate and cook the shrimp further in the citrus
Step 3:
Add diced onion tomatoes cucumber jalapeño (if using) and chopped cilantro to the marinated shrimp Toss gently to combine
Step 4:
Add salt pepper and olive oil Mix well
Step 5:
Just before serving gently fold in the diced avocado Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
Step 6:
Serve chilled in small bowls or glasses garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges Accompany with tortilla chips or tostadas if desired
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| metrochop.com

My family loves sharing this ceviche during warm afternoons as we enjoy the balance of citrus and herbs together.

Required Tools

Medium saucepan (if pre-cooking shrimp), Mixing bowls (glass or ceramic preferred), Knife and cutting board, Citrus juicer, Spoon

Additional Notes

For extra flavor add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes Substitute mango or pineapple for a tropical twist For a bowl meal serve over cooked quinoa rice or salad greens

Nutritional Information

Calories 210 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 11 g Protein 23 g (per serving)

Bright, colorful shrimp ceviche featuring tender shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and avocado, ready to serve with chips. Save to Pinterest
Bright, colorful shrimp ceviche featuring tender shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and avocado, ready to serve with chips. | metrochop.com

This light and fresh shrimp ceviche is both simple to make and sure to impress at any gathering.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this dish?

Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used by simply chopping them before marinating in citrus juices to absorb fresh flavors.

How long should the shrimp marinate in citrus?

Marinate the shrimp for 20–30 minutes to allow the citrus juices to gently 'cook' and flavor the shrimp thoroughly.

Is it necessary to cook the shrimp beforehand?

Raw shrimp should be briefly boiled and cooled to ensure safety, but pre-cooked shrimp can be used directly for convenience.

What variations can I make for extra flavor?

Adding a splash of hot sauce or chili flakes introduces a spicy kick, and tropical fruits like mango or pineapple add sweetness.

Which accompaniments work well with this dish?

Serve chilled with tortilla chips, tostadas, or over grains like quinoa or fresh salad greens for a satisfying meal.

Can this dish be prepared gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free chips or omit accompaniments that contain gluten to maintain a gluten-free option.

Light Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

Tender shrimp combined with citrus, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs create a vibrant, refreshing dish.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Bake/Cook Time
5 minutes
Time Needed
25 minutes
Recipe By Elizabeth Perry


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Latin American

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Needs No Dairy, No Gluten, Reduced-Carb

What You'll Need

Seafood

01 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed)

Marinade

01 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
02 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
03 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)

Vegetables & Fruits

01 1 small red onion, finely diced
02 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
03 1 small cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
04 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
05 1 ripe avocado, diced
06 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Seasoning

01 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
02 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
03 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

To Serve

01 Tortilla chips or tostadas (optional)
02 Lime wedges

How-To Steps

Step 01

Cook Shrimp: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and transfer to ice bath to halt cooking. Drain again, pat dry, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces. If using pre-cooked shrimp, chop directly.

Step 02

Marinate Shrimp: Combine shrimp with lime, lemon, and orange juices in a large glass or ceramic bowl. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow citrus to cook the shrimp further.

Step 03

Combine Vegetables: Add diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro to the marinated shrimp. Toss gently to combine.

Step 04

Season Mixture: Incorporate sea salt, black pepper, and olive oil into the mixture. Mix thoroughly.

Step 05

Add Avocado and Serve: Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado carefully. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve chilled in small bowls or glasses garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Optionally accompany with tortilla chips or tostadas.

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan
  • Glass or ceramic mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Citrus juicer
  • Spoon

Allergy Notes

Always check each ingredient for allergens and reach out to a healthcare provider if you're uncertain.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp). May contain gluten if served with tortilla chips—use gluten-free alternatives when necessary.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

These details are for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Proteins: 23 g