Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche) is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the essence of Sinaloa to your table. This delightful ceviche features shrimp marinated in zesty lime juice, spicy chilies, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light appetizer, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The combination of flavors makes it a standout dish that everyone will love!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp Marinade
- For the Garnish
- How to Make Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Step 2: Mix the Marinade
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Add Fresh Garnishes
- Step 5: Chill and Serve
- How to Serve Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- With Tortilla Chips
- On Tostadas
- With Avocado Slices
- As a Salad Base
- Paired with Beer or Cocktails
- How to Perfect Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- Best Side Dishes for Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- Reheating Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Aguachile?
- How long do I marinate the shrimp for Aguachile?
- Can I customize my Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)?
- Is Aguachile served cold?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have an impressive dish ready to serve.
- Bold Flavors: The mix of lime juice, chili peppers, and fresh herbs creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Serving Options: Aguachile pairs well with various sides and can be served on its own or as part of a larger spread.
- Healthy Choice: Low in calories and packed with nutrients, this dish is perfect for health-conscious eaters.
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh vegetables and seafood ensures a wholesome meal that tastes great.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche) preparation smooth, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife will make slicing the shrimp and vegetables quick and safe.
- Mixing bowl: This is vital for marinating the shrimp evenly with all the ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help ensure the right balance of flavors in your ceviche.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and sliced in half lengthwise)
- 1 cup lime juice (about the juice from 3-4 large limes)
- Salt to taste
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup lime juice (reserved from cooking the shrimp)
- 1 tablespoon jugo maggi (or use soy sauce)
For the Garnish
- 3 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 3/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 large jalapeno pepper (chopped)
- 1 serrano pepper (chopped)
- Salt to taste
- 1 medium cucumber (peeled and deseeded, sliced into crescents)
- 3 radishes (thinly sliced)
- 2 serrano peppers (thinly sliced)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Spicy chili flakes
How to Make Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by marinating the shrimp. In a mixing bowl, combine the raw shrimp with 1 cup of lime juice and salt. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In another bowl, mix together reserved lime juice, white vinegar, chopped garlic, chopped jalapeno pepper, chopped serrano pepper, and jugo maggi or soy sauce. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the shrimp is ready, drain it from excess marinade. Add it to your marinade mixture along with thinly sliced red onion and fresh cilantro. Toss everything gently to coat.
Step 4: Add Fresh Garnishes
Incorporate cucumber slices, radishes, additional serrano peppers, and more cilantro into the ceviche mix. Season with salt to taste.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or on its own as an appetizer. Enjoy your Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)!
How to Serve Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
Aguachile is a vibrant and refreshing dish that can be served in various delightful ways. This Mexican shrimp ceviche pairs beautifully with different sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a light meal.
With Tortilla Chips
- Crispy tortilla chips complement the zesty shrimp and add a satisfying crunch.
On Tostadas
- Serve the aguachile on tostadas for a fun, crunchy base that holds all the flavors.
With Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance the spice of the dish.
As a Salad Base
- Use aguachile as a topping for mixed greens to create a fresh salad option.
Paired with Beer or Cocktails
- Enjoy this dish with a cold beer or a refreshing cocktail like a margarita to elevate your dining experience.

How to Perfect Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
To achieve the best aguachile, focus on freshness and balance in flavors. Here are some tips to make your dish outstanding:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and vegetables for optimal flavor.
- Proper Marination: Allow the shrimp to marinate long enough in lime juice to ensure it becomes tender and flavorful.
- Balance Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeno and serrano peppers based on your heat preference.
- Garnish Generously: Use fresh cilantro and radishes for added color and crunch.
- Chill Before Serving: Let aguachile chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors.
- Experiment with Acidity: You can adjust lime juice levels for more or less acidity according to your taste.
Best Side Dishes for Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
Aguachile pairs well with various side dishes that complement its fresh and spicy nature. Here are some excellent options:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds a hearty component.
- Black Beans: Creamy black beans provide protein and balance the dish’s acidity.
- Corn Salad: A sweet corn salad adds texture and sweetness that contrasts nicely with the spicy ceviche.
- Guacamole: Rich guacamole is always a crowd-pleaser alongside this refreshing dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies enhance the flavor profile while keeping it light.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers refreshing relief from the heat of the chile.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds another layer of brightness and flavor.
- Plantain Chips: Sweet plantain chips provide an unexpected twist with their crunchiness.
These side dishes will not only complement your aguachile but also create a well-rounded meal experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Aguachile can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients will affect the taste. Always choose fresh shrimp and herbs for a vibrant flavor.
- Over-marinating Shrimp: Leaving shrimp in lime juice too long can make it tough. Aim for about 15-20 minutes to ensure perfect texture.
- Ignoring Spice Levels: Not adjusting spices to your taste can lead to an unbalanced dish. Start with less and add more as needed for personal preference.
- Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or radishes can make your dish look plain. Fresh garnishes enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste before serving may result in a bland dish. Always adjust seasonings as necessary for a flavorful experience.
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store Aguachile in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- item Consume within 1-2 days for the best quality and freshness.
Freezing Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- item Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of shrimp may change when thawed.
- item If you must freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month.
Reheating Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
- item Microwave: Heat in short intervals on medium power, stirring occasionally until warm.
- item Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat while stirring to avoid cooking the shrimp further.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aguachile?
Aguachile is a traditional Mexican dish made with shrimp marinated in lime juice, chili peppers, and fresh herbs. It’s known for its bold flavors and refreshing taste.
How long do I marinate the shrimp for Aguachile?
For optimal texture, marinate the shrimp for about 15-20 minutes. This allows them to cook without becoming tough.
Can I customize my Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)?
Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels, add different vegetables, or even include seafood like scallops for added flavor.
Is Aguachile served cold?
Yes, Aguachile is typically served chilled or at room temperature. This enhances its refreshing qualities.
Final Thoughts
The Aguachile recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it with different ingredients to suit your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this vibrant dish—your taste buds will thank you!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Aguachile Recipe (Mexican Shrimp Ceviche) is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of Sinaloan coastal cuisine. This tantalizing ceviche features succulent shrimp marinated in zesty lime juice, spicy chilies, and fragrant herbs, creating an explosion of flavor that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light appetizer. With its quick preparation time and healthy ingredients, this dish not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. Serve it chilled alongside crispy tortilla chips or on tostadas for a delightful experience that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup lime juice (about 3–4 large limes)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 large jalapeno pepper (chopped)
- 1 serrano pepper (chopped)
- 3/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 medium cucumber (sliced)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp in lime juice and salt for 15-20 minutes until opaque.
- In a separate bowl, mix reserved lime juice, vinegar, garlic, jalapeno, serrano pepper, and soy sauce until combined.
- Drain shrimp from marinade and add to the sauce along with sliced red onion and cilantro; toss gently.
- Incorporate cucumber slices and additional peppers; season with salt to taste.
- Chill for 10 minutes before serving with tortilla chips or on its own.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg