Ceviche-Style Passion Fruit Shrimp: A Bright, Flavorful No-Cook Recipe

A vibrant, tropical-inspired shrimp dish bursting with citrus, herbs, and a passion fruit marinade for a healthy, quick meal.

By Medha deb
Created on

Ceviche-Style Passion Fruit Shrimp: Bursting With Tropical Flavor

If you crave lively, citrusy flavors and quick, healthy meals, ceviche-style passion fruit shrimp is about to become your new favorite dish. This no-cook recipe comes together in minutes, bringing together juicy shrimp, vibrant passion fruit, fresh herbs, and creamy avocado for a dish that’s equally at home as a light dinner, lunch, or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Ceviche-Style Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Only 15 minutes of hands-on prep, plus a brief chill. No stove or oven required.
  • Bright, Fresh Flavors: A mix of passion fruit, fresh lime, herbs, and peppers delivers complexity and zippiness.
  • Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats—yet light and satisfying.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: Serve with tortilla chips, plantain chips, or over greens for an elegant starter or main.
  • Adaptable: Try it with different seafood, extra veggies, or your favorite herbs for your own twist.

What Is Ceviche-Style Shrimp?

Ceviche is a popular Latin American dish where fresh seafood is “cooked” using citrus juice, most commonly lime. The acid denatures the proteins, resulting in a firm, opaque texture similar to traditional cooking. Traditional ceviche uses raw fish or shrimp, but this recipe simplifies and speeds things up by using already-cooked shrimp. This method ensures food safety, reduces prep time, and still captures all the zippy, refreshing qualities of classic ceviche.

Star Ingredient: Passion Fruit

Passion fruit offers a tropical punch—tart, sweet, and intensely aromatic. Its vibrant pulp and seeds add both flavor and a burst of color to the dish. You can find passion fruit pulp frozen in most international or Latin grocery stores; it thaws quickly and works perfectly in ceviche marinades.

  • Look for unsweetened passion fruit pulp in the freezer section.
  • If you have fresh passion fruit, scoop out the seeds and pulp and strain if desired for a smoother texture.
  • Pairing passion fruit’s brightness with lime, fresh herbs, and shrimp creates the core flavor profile of this recipe.

Complete Ingredient List

IngredientAmountNotes
Frozen passion fruit pulp, thawed1/4 cupUnsweetened; can substitute fresh passion fruit pulp
Fresh lime juice1 1/2 Tbsp.From about 1 lime
Kosher saltTo tasteDivided use for seasoning and marinade
Poblano pepper, chopped1 largeAdds subtle heat and smokiness
Red onion, chopped1 smallFor crunch, color, and sharpness
Serrano chile, thinly sliced1/2 (about 1 Tbsp.)Optional for extra heat
Peeled, deveined cooked shrimp1 lb.Large or medium, chopped if desired
Avocado, diced1 smallFor creaminess and richness
Cilantro, roughly chopped1/2 cupCan sub parsley for a different herb note

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the passion fruit pulp, lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir well to dissolve the salt.
  2. Add the Veggies: Mix in the chopped poblano pepper, red onion, and serrano chile (if using) for bright color and crunch.
  3. Toss With Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-coated by the marinade.
  4. Finish With Avocado and Cilantro: Gently fold in the diced avocado and chopped cilantro (or parsley). Take care not to break down the avocado.
  5. Chill & Marinate: Cover and refrigerate 10 to 30 minutes. The flavors intensify and the shrimp get juicy from the marinade.
  6. Serve: Stir, taste for seasoning, and serve cold. Perfect with tortilla or plantain chips, atop salad greens, or as a protein-packed taco filling.

Chef’s Tips and Ceviche Variations

  • Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp: Ensures food safety, quick prep, and perfect texture.
  • Customize the Heat: Add or reduce the serrano or substitute with jalapeño to balance spice with sweetness.
  • Swap the Herbs: Try flat-leaf parsley, Thai basil, or mint for unique aromatic twists.
  • Add Crunch: Garnish with thinly sliced radish, corn nuts, or crispy plantain chips.
  • Extra Tang: Add a splash of orange juice for added sweetness, or mango nectar for a subtle tropical upgrade.
  • Alternative Proteins: Substitute scallops, cooked crab, or even tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian take.

Serving Suggestions

Passion fruit shrimp ceviche is as versatile as it is delicious. Consider these bright serving ideas:

  • With tortilla chips, plantain chips, or mini peppers for scooping.
  • Layered over crisp lettuce or mixed greens for a light salad.
  • Tucked into corn tortillas for lively tacos.
  • Scooped onto cold cucumber rounds for elegant hors d’oeuvres.

Nutrition Information

This recipe is light yet nourishing—ideal for healthy eating goals. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming four servings):

  • Calories: 233
  • Protein: 27g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars (natural): 3g (no added sugars)
  • Fat: 7.5g (1.5g saturated)
  • Cholesterol: 239mg
  • Sodium: 1,319mg

Tip: For a lower-sodium option, rinse the shrimp and use less kosher salt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is it safe to use pre-cooked shrimp in ceviche?

A: Yes, using pre-cooked shrimp eliminates any risk associated with traditional raw seafood ceviche. The shrimp absorb the citrus marinade flavors beautifully and remain juicy.

Q: Can I use raw shrimp instead?

A: You can, but you must “cook” them in plenty of citrus juice for at least 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque throughout. Always use the freshest raw shrimp possible and follow food safety guidelines.

Q: What other fruits work in the marinade?

A: Mango, orange, pineapple, and grapefruit can also be used for creative takes, but passion fruit’s sweetness and tang are uniquely bold. Combine with lime for balanced acidity.

Q: How long can I keep leftovers?

A: For best texture and flavor, enjoy ceviche within 24 hours. Avocado tends to brown and shrimp can become tough if left too long in marinade.

Q: What can I serve with passion fruit shrimp ceviche?

A: Try with tortilla chips, plantain chips, over a bed of greens, or alongside Mexican-style rice. It’s a perfect starter or main for warm weather meals.

Healthy Pairings and Menu Ideas

Make it a meal with these health-forward recipes that balance the flavors and textures of passion fruit shrimp ceviche:

  • Charred Pepper and Tomato Salsa: Bright, smoky, and packed with vitamin C. (See quick salsa recipe below.)
  • Mocha Overnight Oats: For a fuss-free breakfast after your ceviche dinner.
  • Grain Bowls: Serve ceviche over cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro for extra fiber and staying power.
  • Roasted Veggies: Offer a warm contrast with roasted mushrooms, squash, or sweet potato wedges.

Quick Charred Pepper and Tomato Salsa Recipe

  • 2 pt. red grape tomatoes
  • 1 red bell pepper, quartered
  • 1/2 white onion, wedged
  • 2 cloves garlic, unpeeled
  • 2 jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • Kosher salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup cilantro
  • 3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice

Directions: Broil vegetables with oil and salt until charred and tender. Cool, peel skin as desired, then pulse with cilantro and lime in a food processor to your desired consistency. Serve chilled with ceviche and chips.

Bright, Health-Conscious Entertaining

Ceviche-style passion fruit shrimp isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant centerpiece for summer parties and family dinners. With simple, nourishing ingredients and bold flavors, it delivers the spirit of coastal cuisine to your table—no heat, no mess, just pure freshness.

Explore more quick, healthy recipes—like overnight oats and vegetable-forward salsas—for simple, satisfying meals any night of the week.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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