Ceviche

We were recently introduced to the ceviche prepared at Sunset Foods and are hooked on it, so I decided to try to recreate it myself. It is very simple to make and is a perfect appetizer for the summer time. And the best part (besides it being delicious) - it is made from only fresh and healthy ingredients so doesn't come along with the guilt of a lot of appetizers. Serve it with some good water crackers (or any cracker of your choice), and enjoy!  The longer this ceviche is allowed to marinate in the refrigerator, the better. I let it sit for about 6 hours the day I made it, but it just kept tasting better and better over the next 2 days. So if you are going to make this for a get-together, I would recommend trying to make about 24 hours ahead of time to have a really great flavor. 

Ceviche

Ingredients

1/4 pound small cooked shrimp, cut into thirds
1 small avocado, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium organic tomato, seeded an cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 organic white or yellow onion, chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
2 Tbsp fresh organic cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 large fresh lemon
Juice of 1 large fresh lime
Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Place all ingredients in mixing bowl or container and stir until evenly combined. Cover and refrigerate, allowing to marinate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

2. Serve cold with crackers.

What are the nutritional benefits of this ceviche? Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, providing 24g of protein in a 4oz serving. Shrimp are also a good source of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats that have been shown to boost HDL (good cholesterol), and are an excellent source of vitamins C,E and carotenoids lycopene and beta carotene, as well as the minerals selenium and zinc. Tomatoes are an excellent source if vitamin C and lycopene. Both jalapeño peppers and cilantro are packed with vitamins C, A and K, and provide small amounts of B vitamins. Onions are rich in quercetin, a type of antioxidant, as well as vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, folate, thiamin, and minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium and manganese. Lemon and lime juice are both high in vitamin C.