Name: Zesty Aguachile Mexican Shrimp Ceviche
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds Large Shrimp (Opt for 21-25 count for best bite); 1.5 cups Fresh Lime Juice (Fresh ensures optimal flavor); 2-4 Serrano Peppers (Adjust quantity based on desired heat); 0.5 medium Red Onion (Can substitute with sweet Vidalia onions); 1 cup Fresh Cilantro (Fresh is crucial for flavor); 1 large Cucumber (Any crisp variety works well); 2 ripe Avocados (Ensure they are perfectly ripe); 1 cup Jicama (Optional, adds sweet crunch); 6-8 Red Radishes (Provide peppery bite and crunch); 0.5 cup Ice Water (Used to cool the ceviche mixture); Salt & Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning); Tostadas or Tortilla Chips (Perfect for scooping)

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Why Make This Recipe

Zesty Aguachile Mexican Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing dish perfect for warm days, gatherings, or when you want a taste of something light and vibrant. This ceviche highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp while combining bright flavors from fresh vegetables and zesty lime juice. The balance of heat from the Serrano peppers and the cool crunch of cucumbers and avocado make this dish enjoyable for everyone. It’s also quick to prepare, making it an easy choice for any occasion.

How to Make Zesty Aguachile Mexican Shrimp Ceviche

Ingredients:

2 pounds Large Shrimp (Opt for 21-25 count for best bite)
1.5 cups Fresh Lime Juice (Fresh ensures optimal flavor)
2-4 Serrano Peppers (Adjust quantity based on desired heat)
0.5 medium Red Onion (Can substitute with sweet Vidalia onions)
1 cup Fresh Cilantro (Fresh is crucial for flavor)
1 large Cucumber (Any crisp variety works well)
2 ripe Avocados (Ensure they are perfectly ripe)
1 cup Jicama (Optional, adds sweet crunch)
6-8 Red Radishes (Provide peppery bite and crunch)
0.5 cup Ice Water (Used to cool the ceviche mixture)
Salt & Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning)
Tostadas or Tortilla Chips (Perfect for scooping)

Directions:

Start by preparing the shrimp. Peel and devein them, then chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Place the chopped shrimp in a bowl and pour the fresh lime juice over them. Make sure the shrimp are fully covered.
Let the shrimp marinate in the lime juice for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
While the shrimp marinates, chop the Serrano peppers, red onion, cilantro, cucumber, avocados, jicama, and red radishes into small pieces.
After the shrimp is ready, drain some of the lime juice, leaving just enough to keep everything moist.
Mix in the chopped vegetables, cilantro, and jicama. Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as you like.
Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
If the mixture feels too warm, you can add the ice water to cool it down.

How to Serve Zesty Aguachile Mexican Shrimp Ceviche

Serve Zesty Aguachile in individual bowls or on a big platter for sharing. Use tostadas or tortilla chips for scooping or serving on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for added freshness.

How to Store Zesty Aguachile Mexican Shrimp Ceviche

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it for up to 2 days. Be aware that the longer it sits, the more the shrimp will continue to cook in the lime juice and change texture.

Tips to Make Zesty Aguachile Mexican Shrimp Ceviche

Use only fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp is okay, but thaw them properly before use.
Adjust the number of Serrano peppers if you prefer less heat. Removing the seeds will also help tone down the spiciness.
Fresh lime juice is essential for the best taste; bottled juice will not give the same brightness.
For a twist, you can add grapefruit or orange segments to the mixture for a touch of sweetness.

Variation

You can substitute shrimp with fish like tilapia or scallops for a different version. This will give you a unique flavor while keeping the dish satisfying. Additionally, try different vegetables like mango for a fruity touch.

FAQs

Can I make this ceviche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is aguachile the same as ceviche?
Aguachile is a type of ceviche that specifically uses lime juice along with peppers for heat. It tends to be spicier and has a different style of presentation.

How do I know if shrimp is fresh?
Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, have a translucent appearance, and be firm to the touch. Avoid shrimp that have a strong or ammonia-like odor.