Name: Easy Ceviche Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced with the grain); 1 –1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided, more to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 4–6 ripe limes, freshly squeezed); 1 –2 garlic cloves (very finely minced); 1 fresh serrano or jalapeño chili pepper (seeded and finely chopped, more to taste); 1 pound fresh fish; 1/4 –1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (sliced in half or diced); 1 cup cucumber (diced); 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional); 1 semi-firm avocado (diced, optional); 2/3 cup avocado; 1/3 cup cilantro; 2/3 cup water (plus more as needed); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon coriander; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 garlic clove; Cracked black pepper to taste

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This Easy Ceviche Recipe combines diced fresh fish gently cured in tangy lime juice with vibrant ingredients like red onion, tomatoes, cilantro, and a hint of chili for subtle heat. Marinating ensures each bite bursts with citrusy flavor, balanced by cucumber’s crunch and tomatoes’ sweetness. A touch of creamy avocado or a drizzle of avocado sauce adds richness, making this Summer Seafood Dish perfect with tortilla chips, lettuce cups, or mini tostadas for a light, festive appetizer or meal.

Few things hit the spot on a steamy afternoon like a bowl of bright zesty ceviche brimming with crisp veggies and tender cubes of fish gently cured by lime. This is the recipe I reach for every summer barbecue, and everyone crowds around the bowl before it even hits the table.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ceviche Recipe

This Easy Ceviche Recipe is a standout Summer Seafood Dish:

Vibrant Flavor: Fresh lime juice and veggies shine in every bite.
No Cooking: No stove needed for a refreshing, satisfying dish.
Scalable: Doubles for parties or scales down for intimate meals.
Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, with marination doing the work.
Customizable: Adjust heat or toppings to suit your taste.
The first time I made this for friends by the lake, there were no leftovers, and every time I bring this ceviche out, someone asks for the recipe right away.

Ingredients for Easy Ceviche Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this Easy Ceviche Recipe (serves 4):

½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
¾ cup fresh lime juice (about 6 limes)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 serrano or jalapeño pepper, finely diced
1 lb fresh fish (e.g., sea bass, snapper, or mahi-mahi), diced into ½-inch cubes
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced (English cucumber preferred)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
1 avocado, diced (optional)
Optional Avocado Sauce: 1 avocado, 2 tbsp cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 garlic clove, ½ tsp coriander, pinch of salt, 2 tbsp water
Tortilla chips or lettuce cups, for serving

Ingredient Tips:

Fish: Source fresh, firm white fish with a clean smell; check for bright color.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is key for tangy flavor; avoid bottled juice.
Cilantro: Choose perky, green leaves for herbal brightness.
Cucumber: English variety has fewer seeds for better texture.
Chili: Adjust serrano or jalapeño for desired heat; remove seeds for milder flavor.

Directions for Easy Ceviche Recipe

Ready to create this zesty dish? Let’s get started!

Slice Onion

I thinly slice ½ cup red onion and place it in a bowl. I sprinkle with 1 tsp kosher salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ¾ cup lime juice, tossing to coat. The citrus mellows the onion’s sharpness.

Cure Fish

I dice 1 lb fresh fish into ½-inch cubes for even curing.
I add it to the onion-lime mixture with 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 diced serrano or jalapeño.
I stir gently to keep fish pieces intact as the lime juice transforms the texture.

Add Veggies

I fold in 1 cup halved tomatoes, 1 cup diced cucumber, and ¼ cup chopped cilantro, ensuring a colorful mix. If using, I add 1 tbsp olive oil for a silky finish.

Marinate

I cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes, letting the lime juice work its magic. I avoid marinating beyond an hour for tender texture.

Adjust and Finish

Before serving, I taste and adjust with extra salt or chili if needed. If using, I gently fold in 1 diced avocado, keeping chunks intact.

Optional Avocado Sauce

For a creamy drizzle, I blend 1 avocado, 2 tbsp cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 garlic clove, ½ tsp coriander, a pinch of salt, and 2 tbsp water until smooth, adding more water if needed.

Serve

I serve the Easy Ceviche Recipe in a bowl with tortilla chips, in lettuce cups, or on mini tostadas, perfect as a Summer Seafood Dish.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 12g carbs, 25g protein, 8g fat, 4g fiber

Variations for Easy Ceviche Recipe

I love tweaking this Easy Ceviche Recipe:

Seafood Swap: Use shrimp or scallops instead of fish; dice and marinate similarly.
Fruit Twist: Swap tomatoes for diced mango or pineapple for sweetness.
Herb Substitute: Replace cilantro with flat-leaf parsley for a milder note.
Spicy Kick: Add extra chili or a dash of hot sauce for bold heat.
Veggie Boost: Include diced bell pepper or radish for added crunch.

Storage

This Easy Ceviche Recipe is best enjoyed within 2 hours of preparation, as lime juice continues to firm the fish. I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day to avoid rubbery texture. I keep it tightly covered to prevent fridge odors.

FAQs About Easy Ceviche Recipe

What fish is best for Easy Ceviche Recipe?
I use firm white fish like sea bass, snapper, or mahi-mahi for their texture and flavor.

How long should fish marinate in lime juice?
I marinate for 30–60 minutes in the fridge for a delicate, tender result.

Can I use other seafood in this Summer Seafood Dish?
Yes, I swap fish for fresh shrimp or scallops, diced and marinated the same way.

How do I serve Easy Ceviche Recipe?
I spoon it into bowls with chips, on tostadas, or in lettuce cups for versatility.

What can I add for extra flavor?
I fold in avocado or drizzle with avocado sauce, adjusting chili or herbs to taste.

How do I ensure ceviche is safe to eat?
I use the freshest fish, marinate in the fridge, and serve soon after preparation.

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Conclusion

I love how this Easy Ceviche Recipe brings out the best in fresh fish with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether I’m serving it as a starter or a light meal, it always gets great feedback. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this ceviche is a staple I keep returning to whenever I want something delicious and satisfying.