Tilapia Ceviche is a refreshing and zesty dish perfect for warm days. This recipe features tender tilapia fillets marinated in fresh lime juice, which “cooks” the fish, creating a delicate texture. Combined with diced tomatoes, crisp red onions, fresh cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño for spice, this dish bursts with vibrant flavors. Serve it as an appetizer or a light main course with tortilla chips or over a bed of greens.
What Is Tilapia Ceviche?
Ceviche is a dish that uses acid—usually from citrus juices like lime or lemon—to “cook” raw fish. Tilapia, a mild, flaky white fish, is an excellent choice for ceviche because of its neutral flavor and firm texture. When combined with vibrant ingredients like red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño, it creates a dish that’s light, refreshing, and full of layers of flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ceviche
- Use the freshest fish possible: Tilapia ceviche relies on the quality of the fish. Always ask your fishmonger for sushi-grade fillets.
- Don’t over-marinate: Overexposure to citrus juice can make the fish rubbery. Stick to the recommended time.
- Customize the spice level: Not a fan of heat? Skip the jalapeños, or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
- Chill before serving: Serve the ceviche cold for the best flavor and texture.
Variations on Tilapia Ceviche
Tropical Tilapia Ceviche
Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet, tropical twist.
Mexican-Inspired Ceviche
Incorporate diced radish and a splash of clamato juice for a deeper, richer flavor.
Asian-Fusion Ceviche
Add grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil for an umami-packed variation.
How to Serve Tilapia Ceviche
- On tortilla chips: Scoop the ceviche onto crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
- In a lettuce cup: For a low-carb option, serve ceviche in crisp lettuce leaves.
- As a side dish: Pair it with grilled seafood or tacos for a complete meal.
- Over rice or quinoa: Turn it into a heartier dish by serving it over a bed of grains.
How to Store Tilapia Ceviche
Ceviche is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it:
- Refrigerate immediately: Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of the fish and vegetables changes when frozen, making it less enjoyable.
Recipe FAQs
Is it safe to eat raw tilapia in ceviche?
Yes, as long as you use sushi-grade fish and follow proper food safety practices, tilapia is safe to eat in ceviche.
Can I use frozen tilapia?
If fresh tilapia isn’t available, frozen fillets can work. Thaw them properly and ensure they’re sushi-grade.
What can I substitute for tilapia?
Other firm white fish, like snapper, cod, or halibut, make excellent substitutes.
How do I make it vegan?
Replace the fish with hearts of palm or diced mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Tilapia Ceviche
Tilapia Ceviche is a refreshing and zesty dish perfect for warm days. This recipe features tender tilapia fillets marinated in fresh lime juice, which "cooks" the fish, creating a delicate texture.
Ingredients
- 1 pound tilapia, thawed
- 1 cup citrus juice (lime or lemon, plus extra for serving)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 1-2 Roma tomatoes, seeded and finely chopped (about ½ cup)
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, minced (seeded for less heat)
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed and minced
- Salt, to taste
- Tortilla chips, tostadas, or saltine crackers for serving
- Hot sauce or mayonnaise (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Slice thawed tilapia fillets into 2-inch-wide strips, rinsing your knife with cold water between cuts. Holding the knife at a 45-degree angle, cut along the muscle fibers into ½-inch chunks.
- Place the tilapia chunks in a glass or stainless-steel bowl and cover them with citrus juice. Toss to coat, then refrigerate for about 4 hours, until the fish turns opaque and “cooks” in the acid.
- Drain off the excess citrus juice and add diced onion, carrot, tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro to the fish.
- Toss everything until evenly combined, then season with salt and extra lime juice if needed.
- Spoon the ceviche onto tostadas, tortilla chips, or saltine crackers. Serve with hot sauce or mayonnaise on the side for extra zing.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 372Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 89mgSodium 541mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 4gSugar 11gProtein 39g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Tilapia ceviche is a dish that embodies simplicity and bold flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, enjoying a light lunch, or looking for an appetizer with a wow factor, this recipe is sure to impress. Experiment with variations, play with the spice levels, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite refreshing beverage—perhaps a crisp white wine or a zesty margarita.
Try these other Tilapia recipes:
