Safely Prepare and Serve Ceviche: Tips for a Refreshing Summer Dish

Ceviche, a beloved summer seafood dish, can be both delicious and safe to eat when prepared correctly. This dish, which involves marinating raw fish in citrus juices, relies on the acidity to ‘cook’ the fish and kill pathogens that can cause food poisoning.Choosing the right type of fish is essential for making safe and tasty ceviche. Opt for lean, sushi-grade fish such as tuna or shrimp. These types of fish allow the citrus juices to permeate the proteins more effectively. Avoid fattier fish like salmon, since the citrus juices may not penetrate the fat well.To ensure maximum safety, freeze the fish before preparing ceviche. Freezing helps to kill parasites that may be present in raw fish. After freezing, thaw the fish properly before marinating it in citrus juices. This step is crucial to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.Prepare the ceviche on the day you plan to eat it. Over-marinating the fish can lead to a rubbery texture, which can detract from the dish’s enjoyment. Once prepared, store the ceviche in a bowl set in a larger bowl of ice to keep it cool and fresh. If transporting the dish to an outdoor event, keep it in a cooler with ice until ready to serve.Food safety is paramount when serving ceviche. While the citrus juice does help to kill some pathogens, it is still recommended to consume the dish within two hours for optimal texture and safety. Ceviche can remain safe to eat longer in the sun than uncured raw fish, but caution is advised.For those looking to add a creative twist to their ceviche, consider adding unique ingredients or flavors. However, always prioritize food safety by following the key guidelines of choosing lean fish, freezing and thawing properly, and keeping the dish cool.Key Takeaways Choose lean, sushi-grade fish like tuna or shrimp for ceviche. Freeze fish before preparing ceviche to kill parasites. Prepare ceviche on the day of serving to avoid over-marinating. Keep ceviche cool and consume within 2 hours for optimal safety. Prioritize food safety when adding unique ingredients or flavors.