Scallop Ceviche

Scallop Ceviche

Scallop ceviche is a light, refreshing dish that highlights the delicate sweetness of fresh scallops, marinated in tangy citrus juices and seasoned with bold flavors.

Ceviche is a popular dish throughout Latin America, where fish or seafood is “cooked” in citrus juice, which firms up the proteins and creates a fresh, zesty flavor.

This recipe showcases the tender texture of scallops, balanced with the acidity of lime and lemon, combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.

Perfect as an appetizer for a summer gathering, a light lunch, or a seafood starter, scallop ceviche is easy to prepare and visually stunning. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can bring the flavors of the coast to your table in minutes.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh scallops, cleaned and sliced into thin rounds

1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

1/2 small red onion, finely diced

1/2 cup cucumber, peeled and diced

1 small tomato, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 avocado, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Tortilla chips or crispy plantain chips (optional, for serving)

How to Make Scallop Ceviche

Prepare the Scallops:

Start by cleaning and slicing the scallops into thin rounds. Use a sharp knife to cut them as thinly as possible, ensuring they will “cook” evenly in the citrus juice. Place the sliced scallops into a glass or ceramic bowl.

Marinate the Scallops:

Pour the fresh lime juice and lemon juice over the scallops, making sure they are fully submerged. The acidity from the citrus juices will begin to “cook” the scallops, turning them opaque in color. Stir the scallops gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll notice that the scallops will turn from translucent to white as they marinate.

Prepare the Vegetables:

While the scallops are marinating, prepare the vegetables. Dice the red onion, cucumber, and tomato, and chop the cilantro and jalapeño (if using). If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before dicing.

Assemble the Ceviche:

Once the scallops have marinated and are opaque, drain off most of the citrus juice, leaving just a small amount in the bowl. Add the diced red onion, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeño to the scallops. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.

Serve:

Scoop the ceviche into small bowls or serve it family-style in a larger dish. If desired, garnish with sliced avocado for extra creaminess and a pop of color. Serve the ceviche with tortilla chips or crispy plantain chips for added texture and crunch.

Chef’s Note

Freshness is Key: The success of scallop ceviche depends on the freshness of the scallops. Make sure to buy the freshest, highest-quality scallops available. Ideally, purchase them the same day you plan to prepare the ceviche.

Citrus Variations: While lime and lemon are traditional, you can also experiment with orange juice or grapefruit juice for a different flavor profile. These fruits will add a slight sweetness to the ceviche.

Customization: Feel free to adjust the flavor profile by adding extra herbs like mint or dill for a fresh twist. You can also add a touch of sweetness with diced mango or pineapple for a tropical flair.

Serving Tip: Scallop ceviche is perfect for a light, refreshing appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a crisp, citrusy cocktail like a margarita or mojito.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 1/4 of Recipe)

Calories: 140

Protein: 18g

Carbohydrates: 6g

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 3g

Sodium: 300mg

Conclusion

Scallop ceviche is an elegant, flavorful dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of fresh scallops while offering a vibrant, citrusy kick. With its clean, fresh ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for a light summer meal or as a seafood starter for your next gathering. The combination of the tangy marinade, crunchy vegetables, and optional creamy avocado makes each bite a delightful experience. Serve it with chips, and enjoy a refreshing and healthy treat that’s bursting with flavor!