Tuna ceviche is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines raw tuna with tangy citrus juices and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. It’s often served as a starter or appetizer in many Latin American cuisines, offering a refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather or beachside dining. The tuna’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the zesty lime and the slight heat from chili peppers, making it a delightful dish for seafood lovers. It’s simple to make and requires minimal cooking – just a perfect balance of fresh ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece.
Quick Facts
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Latin American
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Calories: 250 per serving
Equipment Needed
For making tuna ceviche, you will need a few basic kitchen tools to help bring out the best flavors:
- Sharp Knife: To finely dice the fresh tuna and other ingredients.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
- Cutting Board: For chopping herbs and vegetables.
- Juicer: To extract fresh lime juice easily.
- Serving Dish: A nice plate or bowl to serve the ceviche.
Ingredients
For this delicious tuna ceviche, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh sushi-grade tuna, diced into small cubes
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 3-4 limes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the tuna
Start by dicing the fresh tuna into small, bite-sized cubes. Make sure to use a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts. Place the tuna in a medium mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add the vegetables
Add the finely chopped red onion, jalapeño, cucumber, and tomatoes to the bowl with tuna. These vegetables will provide crunch and freshness to balance the tuna’s rich flavor.
Step 3: Mix the ceviche
Pour the freshly squeezed lime juice over the mixture and toss everything together gently. The acidity from the lime juice will “cook” the tuna, giving it a tender and slightly tangy flavor.
Step 4: Season the ceviche
Drizzle the olive oil over the ceviche, then add salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture gently again to ensure even seasoning.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Finish by sprinkling the chopped cilantro over the ceviche for a burst of herbal freshness. You can serve it immediately with tortilla chips for a crunchy accompaniment, or allow it to chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for extra flavor.
Essential Note: Always use fresh, sushi-grade tuna for ceviche to ensure the best texture and flavor. Make sure to serve the ceviche chilled for maximum freshness.
Nutrition Facts
| Amount Per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 23g |
| Vitamin A | 6% |
| Vitamin C | 40% |
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Fresh Tuna: The key to a great ceviche is using the freshest tuna possible. Sushi-grade tuna ensures the safest and best flavor.
- Citrus Power: Lime juice is the acid that “cooks” the tuna, so don’t skimp on it! Use fresh lime juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Rest for Flavor: If you have time, let the ceviche sit for 15-20 minutes in the fridge. This allows the lime juice to tenderize the tuna and helps the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Heat: If you prefer less heat, skip the jalapeño or use a mild variety. Alternatively, add more peppers if you enjoy a spicier kick.
Conclusion
Tuna ceviche is a delicious, refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a light meal or appetizer. With its combination of fresh tuna, citrusy lime, crunchy vegetables, and vibrant herbs, it offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something light and zesty, this ceviche is sure to impress. Enjoy it as is, or pair it with tortilla chips for a satisfying snack. Either way, it’s a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the beauty of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
