Hearts of Palm Ceviche Recipe: Fresh, Tangy, Vegan Seafood Alternative

Today I’m sharing a classic that never gets old. This traditional Ecuadorian appetizer is beloved across the country — whether you’re at the beach, in the highlands, the jungle or the Galápagos. It’s simple, versatile and eaten everywhere.

Light, refreshing and healthy, this ceviche is a perfect starter or a cooling dish on a warm day.

In Ecuador, ceviche is usually served as an appetizer, very cold in a small bowl. It’s traditionally accompanied by crunchy additions such as fresh popcorn, toasted corn nuts, patacones or plantain chips. Toss the toppings in and enjoy the contrast of textures with a spoon.

Every Latin American country has its own take on ceviche. Peruvian ceviche often resembles a shrimp cocktail or dip enjoyed with chips, while Ecuadorian ceviche tends to be more like a cold, tangy soup served with crunchy accompaniments. I adore this Ecuadorian style — it’s my favorite.

If a trip to Ecuador isn’t on your calendar, bring a taste of the country to your kitchen. This hearts of palm ceviche is easy to make and especially appealing if you prefer fresh, wholesome dishes.

img 6204 4

Hearts of Palm Ceviche



5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Mariel Lewis
  • Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins
  • Yield: 8 servings
Print Recipe

Description

This Hearts of Palm Ceviche is bright, citrusy and wonderfully refreshing — the ideal dish for a hot day or a light starter any time of year.


Ingredients


Units



Scale

  • 2 cups hearts of palm, thinly sliced or cubed
  • 3 tomatoes, skin removed and grated
  • 1 purple onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 bunch cilantro, finely diced
  • 1 bunch parsley, finely diced
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Place the sliced onion in a small bowl with cold water and a pinch of salt. Let it soak for about 10 minutes, then drain and rinse in a strainer. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the grated tomatoes, rinsed onions and hearts of palm. Stir gently to combine and set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Pour the dressing over the tomato-onion-hearts of palm mixture, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to chill and let the flavors meld.
  4. Serve the ceviche cold and garnish with the finely chopped cilantro and parsley. Add your favorite crunchy accompaniment if desired.
  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr 15 mins
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: Latin American

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!