📖 Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Ensure the shrimp is deveined, peeled, and rinsed thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your ceviche. If the shrimp are large, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces about 1/2 inch in size. Don't skip this! Undersized pieces don't marinate as well.
2. Marinate the shrimp: In a glass bowl (avoid metal, as it can react with the lime juice), combine the shrimp with the fresh lime juice. Make sure the shrimp are fully submerged in the juice. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the shrimp turn opaque and firm. The lime juice essentially 'cooks' the shrimp, so be patient and let it work its magic. I like to check every 30 minutes or so to give everything a gentle stir to make sure it cooks evenly.
3. Prep the vegetables: While the shrimp is marinating, dice the red onion, tomato, cucumber, and jalapeño (if using) into small, uniform pieces. Mincing the garlic finely will distribute its flavor evenly throughout the ceviche. Finely chop the fresh cilantro. Set all the prepped vegetables aside. I can't stress enough how important it is to dice these small. Big chunks just aren't as good.
4. Combine ingredients: Once the shrimp is opaque, drain the lime juice. In a larger bowl, combine the marinated shrimp with the diced red onion, tomato, cucumber, jalapeño (if using), garlic, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything gently to combine, being careful not to mash the shrimp or vegetables. This step is where all those individual flavors meld together to create something amazing.
5. Season and adjust: Season the ceviche with salt and black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the lime juice, if desired. Taste the ceviche and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want a bit more lime juice for extra zing, or perhaps a touch more salt to enhance the flavors. It's all about personal preference here!
6. Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the ceviche for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld even further. This chilling period also helps the ceviche become even more refreshing. Before serving, give it one final gentle stir. Serve the Cilantro Lime Ceviche Zing with tortilla chips, tostadas, or crispy lettuce cups. Garnish with avocado slices, if desired, for added creaminess and visual appeal. Enjoy immediately!