Why the Ceviche Is Great For Burning Fat
While many dishes can pack on the pounds, ceviche stands out as a revitalizing option that can actually support your weight loss goals.
The combination of lean proteins like halibut and shrimp keeps me feeling full without adding excessive calories. Plus, the fresh ingredients, like tomatoes and cucumbers, provide essential nutrients while being low in fat.
The zesty lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also boosts metabolism. When I indulge in ceviche, I enjoy a delicious meal that satisfies my cravings and helps me stay on track with my health goals.
It’s a win-win for my taste buds and waistline!
Ingredients of Ceviche
Ceviche is a delightful dish that’s not just a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful celebration of fresh ingredients. If you’re like me and love a dish that feels light yet satisfying, then ceviche is your go-to.
It’s packed with protein from halibut and shrimp, and the vibrant veggies make it a nutritious option. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more enjoying the sunshine (or whatever else you love doing).
So, let’s explore the ingredients that make this ceviche a winner.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Halibut and Shrimp Ceviche:
- 1 lb halibut
- 1/4 lb shrimp
- 4 lemons
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 small onion
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1 hot pepper, chopped fine
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (coriander)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
Now, while these ingredients are the stars of the show, there are a few things to keep in mind. Freshness is key when it comes to seafood, so make sure you’re getting the best quality halibut and shrimp you can find.
Trust me, it makes a difference. The lemon juice is what “cooks” the fish, so fresh lemons are a must; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix and match the veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Maybe throw in some avocado or switch out the hot pepper for a milder one if you’re not a fan of the heat.
The beauty of ceviche lies in its versatility, so let your creativity shine.
How to Make Ceviche
Making ceviche is easier than you might think, and trust me, it’s a whole lot of fun. First things first, grab your 1 lb of fresh halibut and 1/4 lb of shrimp. Depending on where you live, you might’ve to do a little treasure hunt at the fish market to find the freshest catch.
Once you have your seafood, give it a good rinse under cold water, and then chop the halibut into small, bite-sized cubes. For the shrimp, if they’re not already cooked, you’ll want to quickly boil them until they turn pink and then chop them up too. It sounds simple, right? Well, it is!
Now comes the fun part: tossing everything together. Dice up 1 small onion, 1/2 cucumber, and 2 ripe tomatoes, and put them in a large mixing bowl. Oh, and don’t forget to finely chop that 1 hot pepper – it’s going to add a nice kick to your dish.
Then, grab 2 garlic cloves and mince them up; the aroma is heavenly and will make your kitchen smell like a little slice of heaven. Now, here’s where the magic happens: juice those 4 lemons and pour that zesty goodness all over your mix. Add in 2 tablespoons each of chopped parsley and cilantro for that fresh, vibrant flavor.
Give everything a good stir, but don’t go crazy; we want to keep those delicate seafood pieces intact. Once everything is mixed and looking beautiful, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge.
Here’s the tough part: you need to let it marinate for at least 8 hours, or ideally overnight. I know, waiting is hard, but this is where the lemon juice does its thing, “cooking” the fish and shrimp to perfection.
When you finally pull it out, you’ll be greeted with a burst of color and a zesty scent that practically dances off the bowl. Serve it up in chilled bowls, maybe with some tortilla chips on the side, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s not just a meal, but a celebration.
Ceviche Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy ceviche while sticking to a low carb diet, there are plenty of tasty substitutions and variations you can try. Instead of halibut, use firm white fish like tilapia or even scallops.
For the shrimp, consider adding diced avocado; it adds creaminess and healthy fats. You can swap out tomatoes for diced bell peppers for a crunchy texture without the carbs.
Additionally, I love adding radishes for extra bite and color. Don’t forget to keep the fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley; they really boost the flavor while keeping your dish low in carbs!
Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Ceviche
When enjoying ceviche, it’s important to think about the perfect accompaniments that enhance the dish.
I love serving ceviche with crispy tortilla chips or crunchy tostadas for that satisfying texture contrast. You can’t go wrong with a side of fresh guacamole or a tangy mango salsa to balance the flavors.
A invigorating salad with mixed greens, avocado, and citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully, too. Don’t forget some lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Finally, a chilled glass of light beer or a fruity cocktail elevates the experience, making it even more enjoyable.
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying ceviche can be a delight, I often look for ways to trim down the calories without sacrificing flavor. One simple trick is to use more vegetables, like extra cucumbers or tomatoes, which add crunch and freshness.
I also reduce the amount of shrimp, focusing on the halibut for a lighter dish. Swapping out high-calorie ingredients, such as adding less oil or skipping avocado, can help too.
Finally, I make certain to use fresh herbs generously; they boost flavor without calories. These tweaks guarantee my ceviche remains delicious and satisfying while keeping the calorie count in check.