There’s a burst of excitement in the air as summer rolls in, awash with vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. Imagine stepping into your kitchen, where the sunny aroma of citrus mingles with the spicy undertones of fresh jalapeño—it beckoned me to create something extraordinary. That’s how my journey to craft this Spicy Scallop Ceviche began.
This dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of freshness that’ll transport you straight to a beachside café. Picture plump, fresh sea scallops marinating in a zesty citrus bath, perfectly complemented by the crunch of radishes and a kiss of garlic. It’s a refreshing antidote to our usual fast-food routine, ensuring you never have to compromise on flavor or freshness.
Quick to prepare and elegant enough for any gathering, this ceviche serves as a delightful starter or a light main course. Take a culinary detour with me, and let’s discover how to whip up this bewitching dish that’s sure to impress, all while keeping cooking woes at bay!
Why will you love Spicy Scallop Ceviche?
Freshness at its peak: Using raw sea scallops marinated in a vibrant citrus blend elevates the dish, providing a bright and zesty experience.
Simple preparation: With minimal cooking required, this dish is perfect for both novice and seasoned chefs, allowing for quick assembly and minimal cleanup.
Flavor explosion: The fusion of garlic, jalapeño, and mixed citrus juices delivers a kick that dances on the palate, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Versatile serving: Whether as an elegant appetizer or a refreshing main dish, this ceviche is adaptable and can be served alongside your favorite sides, like avocado toast for added heartiness.
Health-conscious choice: Low in calories but high in flavor, this ceviche is a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies cravings without compromising on nutrition.
Make your next meal a celebration of fresh ingredients with this delightful recipe!
Spicy Scallop Ceviche Ingredients
Ready to dive into a flavorful adventure?
For the Ceviche
• ¾ pounds fresh sea scallops – Essential for that tender, sweet taste, ensuring the best quality will make a difference in your dish.
• 2 lemons, freshly squeezed – Adds a sharp citrus zing that balances the richness of the scallops perfectly.
• Zest from one orange – Provides vibrant flavor depth; don’t skip this for an aromatic boost.
• 1 lime, freshly squeezed – Complements the other citrus fruits with its tartness, enhancing the ceviche’s overall freshness.
• 1 ruby red grapefruit, freshly squeezed – A unique twist that introduces subtle sweetness and makes your ceviche truly special.
For the Flavor
• 1 large garlic clove, crushed – Infuses the ceviche with a bold, savory note that enhances all the other fresh ingredients.
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and thinly sliced – A dash of heat adds excitement; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced – Brings a crunchy texture and a peppery, refreshing flavor that’s delightful.
• 2 tablespoons red onion, diced or thinly sliced – Adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor, providing a beautiful color contrast.
• 2 tablespoons red bell pepper, seeded and small diced – Sweet and crunchy, this ingredient complements the spicy elements wonderfully.
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (more for garnish) – This herb brightens the dish with freshness and a hint of earthiness.
To Season
• Pinch of salt & pepper, to taste – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish, letting the Spicy Scallop Ceviche shine.
Gather these ingredients and prepare to transform them into a stunning dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold!
How to Make Spicy Scallop Ceviche
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Prepare scallops: Clean the sea scallops thoroughly and carefully remove the small muscle from each one. Slice them in half length-wise to ensure they soak up the flavors beautifully. Set the scallops aside for now.
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Mix citrus base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed juices from the lemons, lime, orange, and grapefruit, along with the orange zest. Stir well until the juices celebrate together in harmony!
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Add flavor elements: Stir in the crushed garlic, thinly sliced jalapeño, radishes, diced onion, bell pepper, and cilantro. Season this medley with a pinch of salt and pepper—taste as you go, it should feel bright and inviting.
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Marinate scallops: Gently add the prepared scallops to the citrus mixture, ensuring they’re completely submerged in the marinade. This is where the magic begins!
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours. This is crucial for allowing the scallops to “cook” in the citrus juices and develop that refreshing ceviche flavor.
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro before serving for an added pop of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Scallop Ceviche
Fridge: Store any leftover Spicy Scallop Ceviche in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but freshness is key!
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze ceviche as the texture of the scallops can become rubbery after thawing. Enjoy it fresh!
Reheating: Ceviche is best served cold; simply pull it from the fridge and enjoy right away. Avoid reheating to maintain its refreshing taste.
Spicy Scallop Ceviche Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these delightful adaptations!
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Citrus Medley: Substitute grapefruit with orange or tangerine juice for a sweeter, milder ceviche. A twist of flavor can really change the mood of the dish!
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Herbaceous Delight: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint to give a unique herbal twist, refreshing your palate with every bite. Each herb brings its own signature to the dish!
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced serrano pepper instead of jalapeño for a bolder flavor profile that will excite spice lovers! Turn up the heat, and watch your guests’ eyes widen!
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced cucumber or avocado for a creamy texture that complements the crunch of radishes, enriching the whole experience. It makes the ceviche even more filling and delicious!
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Fruit Fusion: Add diced mango or pineapple for a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise. A hint of sweetness can elevate the refreshing tang of the ceviche!
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Tequila Infusion: Mix in a splash of tequila during the marinating process for a bold party twist, enhancing the flavor and making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings! The party just got a little wilder!
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Low-FODMAP Version: Use garlic-infused oil instead of fresh garlic and substitute red onion with the green tops of scallions to keep it tasty yet gentle on the digestive system. Inclusivity in flavor is the key!
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Colorful Medley: Add colorful diced bell peppers—yellow and green explore vibrant flavors and create a visually stunning ceviche! A feast for the eyes as much as for the taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Spicy Scallop Ceviche in advance is a fantastic way to save time and ensure a vibrant dish awaits you on busy nights! You can clean and slice the scallops up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the citrus marinade (juices and zest) can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days before combining with the scallops—this helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the marinated scallops with the citrus mixture, stir in the fresh vegetables, and enjoy a refreshing meal that feels fresh and exciting, just as if you made it on the spot!
Expert Tips for Spicy Scallop Ceviche
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Select Fresh Scallops: Choose high-quality, fresh sea scallops for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen scallops, as they may be less tender.
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Juicing Technique: Use a handheld juicer to extract the maximum amount of juice from your citrus fruits. This ensures a balanced marinade for your Spicy Scallop Ceviche.
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Marinating Time: Allow the ceviche to marinate for at least four hours, but overnight can deepen the flavors. Just be cautious not to over-marinate, as it can become too firm.
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Taste Test: Before serving, taste your ceviche and adjust the seasoning. A pinch more salt or a splash of lime juice can elevate the flavor profile.
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Prep Ahead: You can prep your vegetables and citrus juices ahead of time, saving you last-minute hassle. Just combine them with scallops before serving for best freshness.
What to Serve with Spicy Scallop Ceviche?
Elevate your culinary experience by pairing this zesty dish with delightful accompaniments that bring out its vibrant flavors.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, these are perfect for scooping up the ceviche and balancing its tanginess.
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Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados add richness that complements the sharp citrus notes, providing a well-rounded bite. It’s simple yet fills your taste buds with joy!
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Coconut Rice: This subtle, sweet side introduces a tropical flair to your meal, beautifully offsetting the ceviche’s zesty profile.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred and sweet, the smoky flavor adds depth, creating an inviting contrast against the fresh ceviche.
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Craft Beer: A crisp, light lager or fruity pale ale is a refreshing choice to cleanse the palate between bites while echoing the bright flavors of the dish.
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Sweet Mango Salsa: Made with ripe mango, red onion, and cilantro, this fruity salsa offers a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall experience.
Serve these complementary items alongside your Spicy Scallop Ceviche for a meal that celebrates fresh, bold flavors in every bite!
Spicy Scallop Ceviche Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best scallops for ceviche?
Absolutely! When selecting scallops, look for fresh sea scallops that are firm, moist, and slightly translucent. Avoid scallops with a strong fishy smell or any dark spots all over. Fresh scallops should have a sweet, oceanic aroma—this is your best indicator of quality!
How should I store leftovers of Spicy Scallop Ceviche?
You can store any leftover Spicy Scallop Ceviche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maximize freshness, be sure to enjoy it soon, as the flavors will continue to develop, but the scallops will lose their bite after a couple of days.
Can I freeze ceviche, and if so, how?
It’s best not to freeze ceviche as the texture of the scallops can become rubbery after thawing, affecting that delicate mouthfeel. Instead, I recommend enjoying it fresh or making a smaller batch that you can consume right away!
What if my ceviche isn’t marinating long enough?
If you’re in a pinch and can’t marinate for the full four hours, every bit helps! However, I suggest allowing at least one hour for the citrus juices to begin “cooking” the scallops and developing maximum flavor. Remember, longer marination intensifies taste, but be cautious not to go too far, as it can become too firm.
Is this recipe suitable for those with shellfish allergies?
Sadly, this Spicy Scallop Ceviche is not suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using diced mango, avocado, or even firm tofu marinated in the citrus sauce for a flavorful, allergy-friendly version!
Can my pets have any part of this ceviche?
No, it’s best to keep this Spicy Scallop Ceviche away from pets as scallops and other seafood are not recommended for them. Additionally, the citrus and spices used could upset their stomachs. Always prioritize pet-friendly foods for your furry friends!
Zesty Spicy Scallop Ceviche for a Fresh Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean the sea scallops thoroughly and remove the small muscle from each one. Slice them in half length-wise.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed juices from the lemons, lime, orange, and grapefruit, along with the orange zest. Stir well.
- Stir in the crushed garlic, sliced jalapeño, radishes, diced onion, bell pepper, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
- Gently add the prepared scallops to the citrus mixture, ensuring they're completely submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours.
- Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro before serving.