Save This spicy watermelon shrimp ceviche is my go-to for any bright summer gathering when I want something refreshing and light yet bursting with flavor. Sweet watermelon teams up with tender shrimp and lively citrus, then all of it is elegantly nestled into crisp lettuce cups. Guests always rave, and it never lasts long on the table.
I discovered this ceviche cup idea for a lake picnic and now even the kids ask for second helpings. It looks impressive but comes together in less time than you would think.
Ingredients
- Shrimp medium peeled and deveined: makes up the protein base Tender shrimp absorb the citrus and bring satisfying texture Seek sustainably sourced for best flavor and environmental impact
- Lime juice freshly squeezed: brings tang and helps gently cure the shrimp Always choose heavy limes that feel dense for maximum juice
- Seedless watermelon small diced: adds juicy pops of sweetness with a colorful twist Pick firm seedless watermelon for easiest prep
- Red onion finely diced: gives punch and a hint of sharpness Look for a small, firm onion with tight skin
- Jalapeño finely diced: provides a gentle kick without overpowering Swap for milder or hotter chilies to suit your taste
- Cucumber peeled and diced: lends cool crunch Choose a seedless cucumber for fewer seeds and crisper bite
- Avocado diced: offers creamy richness and healthy fats Find one that yields slightly to gentle pressure for perfect ripeness
- Fresh cilantro chopped: sprinkles in herby brightness Pick lively green leaves and avoid wilted bunches
- Butter lettuce or small gem lettuce leaves: crisp and sweet serving vessel Select heads with tight packed leaves that feel heavy for their size
- Sea salt: enhances the flavors Sprinkling flaky salt at the end really wakes everything up
- Freshly ground black pepper: adds subtle heat Grind fresh for best flavor payoff
- Extra-virgin olive oil: brings richness and makes the flavors pop Use a fruity robust oil if possible
- Hot sauce optional: for those who love an extra zing Have a mild and a hot option on the side
Instructions
- Prepare Ice Bath:
- Fill a medium bowl with ice and cold water so you are ready to instantly chill the shrimp This step locks in perfect texture and stops the cooking
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Bring a saucepan of well salted water to a rolling boil Add the peeled shrimp and watch closely They turn pink quickly Remove after one to two minutes when just opaque
- Chill and Chop:
- With a slotted spoon transfer shrimp from the hot water directly to your ice bath Let them sit several minutes until cool to the touch Then drain well and chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces
- Citrus Marination:
- Place chopped shrimp in a non metallic mixing bowl Pour in all the lime juice so it covers the shrimp Pop the bowl in the refrigerator to marinate for ten minutes This finishes curing while infusing brightness
- Drain Most of the Lime Juice:
- Carefully pour off most of the lime liquid from the shrimp leaving about two tablespoons behind This keeps flavors balanced and not soupy
- Combine with Veggies and Seasonings:
- Add diced watermelon red onion jalapeño cucumber avocado and cilantro to the marinated shrimp Sprinkle the sea salt black pepper drizzle olive oil and add hot sauce if using Gently fold everything together taking care not to mash the avocado
- Assemble Lettuce Cups:
- Lay out crisp lettuce leaves on a large platter Gently spoon generous portions of the ceviche mixture into each one Sprinkle with extra cilantro for a cheerful presentation Serve immediately for the best crunch
Save Watermelon has become my secret twist for summer ceviche and my niece always sneaks extra lettuce cups off the serving tray When we made this last July Fourth there was not a single piece left
Storage Tips
Ceviche is at its best freshly made but can be chilled for about an hour if prepping ahead Cover tightly in the fridge to keep the avocado from browning I recommend adding the avocado right before serving to keep it at its peak
Ingredient Substitutions
If avoiding shrimp try cooked scallops or a diced firm white fish Both work beautifully with watermelon and citrus For more heat use serrano peppers or even a few chili flakes Mango can stand in for the watermelon if that is what you have
Serving Suggestions
Serve these in lettuce cups as intended or scoop alongside tortilla or plantain chips for more crunch For a heartier bite you can add cooked black beans or even sweet corn on the side I love making a whole ceviche platter surrounded by extra limes and cilantro
Cultural and Seasonal Twist
Classic Latin ceviche is given a sunny update with watermelon It reminds me of trips to coastal towns where both fruits and seafood are at their freshest For an off season version swap the watermelon for ripe mango or firm citrus segments
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in mango or pineapple in cooler months Add diced radish for even more crunch Try citrus segments like orange during winter when watermelon is out of season
Success Stories
I once brought these to a surprise bridal shower and the entire platter disappeared faster than the cake Friends still request the recipe and someone always asks what my secret to keeping the shrimp so tender is Hint cool that shrimp fast
Freezer Meal Conversion
Sadly this is not one for the freezer Because the fresh vegetables and fruit can turn watery and mushy after thawing I highly recommend prepping all elements ahead and assembling just before serving for best results
Save This salad will brighten any table and is sure to disappear fast. Enjoy the zesty crunch at your next gathering.
Cooking Questions
- → How is the shrimp prepared for this dish?
Shrimp is briefly boiled until just pink, then chilled in an ice bath and chopped before marinating.
- → Can the heat level be adjusted?
Absolutely. Jalapeño seeds can be removed for a milder bite, or swap in serrano pepper for extra spice.
- → What’s the best way to serve this appetizer?
Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves for handheld bites or serve with chips for added crunch.
- → How long does it keep fresh?
It’s best enjoyed immediately but can be chilled for up to an hour before serving for optimal texture.
- → Can I substitute other seafood for shrimp?
Yes, cooked scallops or firm white fish make great alternatives for this lively preparation.
- → Is this suitable for gluten- or dairy-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are gluten- and dairy-free, but check labels for possible cross-contamination risks.