Scallop Ceviche Recipe: A Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Delight 🦪🍋
Looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for a summer day or a special appetizer? This Scallop Ceviche recipe has you covered! With tender, fresh scallops marinated in a zesty mix of lime juice and fresh herbs, this dish is the epitome of fresh, vibrant flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a healthy snack, scallop ceviche is a must-try!
Ceviche is a popular Latin American dish where fresh seafood is “cooked” in citrus juice, creating a tangy and tender treat. In this recipe, we’re using scallops, but you can easily substitute with shrimp, fish, or any other seafood of your choice. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of fresh scallops and tangy lime juice creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy & Light: Packed with lean protein from the scallops and fresh veggies, this ceviche is both delicious and nutritious.
- Perfect for Summer: Whether you’re at a BBQ, beach picnic, or just lounging at home, this ceviche is the ultimate summer dish.
Ingredients 🥄
Here’s what you’ll need to create this light, tangy Scallop Ceviche:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh scallops | 1 lb (450g) |
| Fresh lime juice | 1/2 cup (about 4-5 limes) |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1/2 medium |
| Cucumber, diced | 1/2 medium |
| Jalapeño, minced | 1 (optional) |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Tomato, diced | 1 medium |
| Avocado, diced (optional) | 1 ripe |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Recipe Notes 📝
- Choosing Scallops: Opt for fresh, high-quality scallops from a trusted fishmonger or grocery store. The fresher the seafood, the better the ceviche.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like more spice, feel free to add extra jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder to the ceviche.
- Marinating Time: Let the scallops marinate in the lime juice for at least 30 minutes to fully “cook” in the citrus. However, if you prefer a more delicate flavor, 15-20 minutes will work.
- Other Protein Options: If you don’t have scallops, you can substitute with shrimp, firm white fish like tilapia, or even octopus.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Scallop Ceviche 🦪
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
Start by rinsing your fresh scallops under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Remove the tough side muscle (if present) and cut the scallops into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Marinate the Scallops
Place the chopped scallops in a glass or non-metallic bowl. Pour the fresh lime juice over the scallops, making sure they are fully submerged. The acid from the lime juice will begin to “cook” the scallops, turning them opaque. Let the scallops marinate in the lime juice for 30 minutes in the fridge, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
While the scallops marinate, finely chop the red onion, cucumber, tomato, and jalapeño (if using). Chop the cilantro and dice the avocado (if using). Keep the vegetables ready to mix into the ceviche once the scallops have marinated.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
After the scallops have marinated, drain a little of the excess lime juice (but keep some for flavor). Add the chopped veggies—onion, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeño—into the bowl with the scallops. Mix everything together gently, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the ceviche and add salt and pepper as needed. If desired, fold in diced avocado for a creamy touch. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a stand-alone appetizer. Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge if you like.
Time and Servings ⏰🍽️
| Time to Prepare | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Time to Marinate | 30 minutes |
| Servings | Makes 4 servings |
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
This Scallop Ceviche is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:
- With Chips: Serve the ceviche with crispy tortilla chips or crackers for a crunchy contrast.
- In Tacos: Use soft corn tortillas and add the ceviche for a seafood taco option.
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the ceviche on a bed of leafy greens for a refreshing salad-style dish.
- Side Dish or Appetizer: It also works perfectly as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light appetizer before dinner.
This Scallop Ceviche is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to enjoy more delicious scallop dishes, why not try these Scallop Skewers for a grilled seafood option? They’re just as fresh and flavorful and make a great pairing with ceviche!
Storage and Reheating Tips 📦🔥
Storage:
Ceviche is best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Make sure the ceviche is covered with a little extra lime juice to keep it fresh.
Reheating:
Ceviche is not meant to be reheated as the seafood will lose its delicate texture. It’s best enjoyed cold right after making it. If you must store leftovers, consume them within 24 hours.
Don’t skip the storage trick — it’s at the end of the post!
Extra Tips to Make This Recipe Perfect 💡
Wait till you see the secret ingredient for extra tip to make the recipe perfect!
For an even richer flavor, try adding a dash of orange juice along with the lime juice when marinating the scallops. This will give the ceviche a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the lime.
Common Mistakes to Avoid ⚠️
- Over-marinating the Scallops: Avoid marinating the scallops for too long. Over-marinated seafood can become tough and rubbery. Stick to the 30-minute marinating time for the best texture.
- Using Old or Frozen Scallops: Fresh scallops make a world of difference in ceviche. Frozen scallops can become mushy, so use fresh ones for the best flavor.
- Not Balancing the Flavors: Taste the ceviche as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice. You want the flavors to be balanced and not overly sour.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving) 🥗
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
FAQs 🤔
1. Can I use frozen scallops for ceviche?
While fresh scallops are ideal for ceviche, you can use frozen scallops if needed. Be sure to thaw them thoroughly before chopping and marinating.
2. How long should I marinate the scallops?
Marinate the scallops for about 30 minutes. The lime juice will “cook” the seafood during this time, turning them opaque.
3. Can I add other seafood to the ceviche?
Absolutely! You can add shrimp, fish, or even squid to the ceviche for a mixed seafood version.
4. How can I make ceviche less spicy?
If you prefer a milder ceviche, omit the jalapeño or reduce the amount used. You can also add a little more cucumber to mellow the heat.
5. Can I make ceviche ahead of time?
While ceviche is best served fresh, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time. Simply combine everything and marinate for 30 minutes right before serving.
Final Thoughts 🌟
This Scallop Ceviche recipe is a perfect way to enjoy fresh, flavorful seafood with minimal effort. The lime, cilantro, and fresh veggies give the dish a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather or light, healthy meals. It’s versatile, customizable, and full of vibrant flavors, making it an ideal appetizer or main dish. So, next time you’re craving something fresh and healthy, give this ceviche recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
