Spicy Scallop Ceviche

If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that impresses without the fuss, you’ve come to the right place! This Spicy Scallop Ceviche is an absolute favorite of mine. The way the fresh scallops soak up citrus juices is simply magical. Perfect for a sunny day or a cozy evening, this dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this ceviche brings a burst of joy to any occasion.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You can let the scallops marinate while you enjoy some time with your guests, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this ceviche in no time.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients create a stunning dish that looks gourmet.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Just let the scallops marinate in the fridge! They’ll be ready when you are.
• Light and Refreshing: A perfect appetizer that won’t weigh you down; it’s bright and flavorful!
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to fit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need for your Spicy Scallop Ceviche:

For the Scallops

• ¾ pounds fresh sea scallops

For the Marinade

• 2 lemons freshly squeezed
• Zest from one orange and freshly squeezed
• 1 lime freshly squeezed
• 1 ruby red grapefruit, freshly squeezed
• 1 large garlic clove, crushed

For the Crunch

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and thinly sliced
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons red onion, diced or thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons red bell pepper, seeded and small diced

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (more for garnish)

Seasoning

• Pinch of salt & pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best parts about ceviche is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love most.

• Swap the protein: Try shrimp or even firm fish like salmon for a different twist.
• Add more heat: If you crave extra spice, toss in some chopped serrano peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
• Mix in fruits: For a tropical flair, add diced mango or pineapple to bring sweetness into play.
• Change up the herbs: Cilantro is wonderful, but if you’re not a fan, try fresh mint or basil for an unexpected flavor.

How to Make Spicy Scallop Ceviche

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Start by cleaning your scallops. Remove any small muscle attached to them and slice each scallop in half length-wise. This helps them absorb all those delicious citrus flavors. Set them aside while you prepare your marinade.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, combine all your citrus juices—lemon, orange, lime, and grapefruit. Add in the zest from the orange as well—it enhances that bright flavor! Stir in the crushed garlic along with jalapeño, radishes, onion, bell pepper, and cilantro. Season it with salt and pepper to bring everything together.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

Now it’s time to add those beautiful scallops to your marinade! Gently stir them in until they’re well-coated and soaking up all that goodness. Cover your bowl tightly and pop it into the fridge for at least four hours. This step is crucial as it allows the scallops to “cook” in the citrus juices.

Step 4: Serve with Flair

Once your ceviche has marinated beautifully, take it out of the fridge. Give it a gentle stir again before serving. Garnish with additional cilantro for that pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite!

With this Spicy Scallop Ceviche recipe at hand, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Scallop Ceviche

Making ceviche is as much about technique as it is about the ingredients. Here are some pro tips to ensure your Spicy Scallop Ceviche turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh scallops and citrus juices are key to a vibrant flavor. The fresher the ingredients, the better the ceviche will taste, enhancing the overall dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount of jalapeño and gradually add more to find your perfect balance of spice. This way, you can enjoy the dish without overwhelming your palate.
• Timing is Everything: Letting the scallops marinate in the citrus juices for at least four hours allows them to cook properly. This step is crucial for achieving that tender texture and bright flavor.
• Serve Chilled: Ceviche is best enjoyed cold. Consider chilling your serving bowls before plating to keep everything refreshingly cool, making each bite even more delightful.
• Experiment with Citrus: While this recipe uses a mix of citrus fruits, feel free to swap in or add other varieties like tangerines or pomelo to give your ceviche a unique twist!

How to Serve Spicy Scallop Ceviche

Presenting your Spicy Scallop Ceviche can be as fun as making it! With its colorful appearance and refreshing flavors, this dish deserves a beautiful presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro not only adds color but also enhances the fresh herbaceous notes of the ceviche.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring a rich texture that complements the acidity of the ceviche, creating a delightful contrast.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for guests who might want an extra burst of citrus flavor with each bite.

Side Dishes

• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch and are perfect for scooping up the ceviche. They make for a fun and interactive dining experience!
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lime dressing pairs beautifully, adding a nutritious element that complements the seafood.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring out smoky flavors that balance well with the fresh ceviche.
• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice offers a delightful contrast to the tangy ceviche, creating a wonderfully harmonious meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious Spicy Scallop Ceviche! Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spicy Scallop Ceviche is the perfect dish for meal prep! It not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served after a few hours in the fridge.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ceviche in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 1-2 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Avoid freezing as the texture of the scallops may change.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze ceviche due to the delicate texture of scallops.
• If you must freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but note that quality may be compromised.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat ceviche since it’s served cold.
• If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving—this way, you won’t cook the scallops further.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your Spicy Scallop Ceviche experience.

Can I use frozen scallops for Spicy Scallop Ceviche?

Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before using. Fresh scallops yield better results in terms of texture and flavor, but thawed scallops can work in a pinch.

How long should I marinate my Spicy Scallop Ceviche?

Marinate your ceviche for at least 4 hours. This allows the citrus juice to effectively cook the scallops while infusing them with flavor.

What can I serve with Spicy Scallop Ceviche?

Consider pairing it with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a fresh salad. It makes a great appetizer or light main dish!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Spicy Scallop Ceviche is ideal for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy it over a couple of days.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that this Spicy Scallop Ceviche is not just a dish; it’s an experience of vibrant flavors and refreshing bites. It’s simple enough for any home cook yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations; I’d love to hear how yours turned out!