Scallop ceviche with avocado mousse is a vibrant, refreshing dish that celebrates the purity of seafood. The sweet, delicate texture of fresh scallops is enhanced by a citrus-based marinade, while the smooth, velvety avocado mousse adds a luxurious contrast.
This dish is perfect as an elegant appetizer or a light seafood course, bringing together zesty acidity, creamy richness, and fresh oceanic flavors. Whether for a summer soirée, a refined dinner party, or an elevated seafood experience, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish that is both simple and impressive.
Selecting the Best Scallops for Ceviche
A. Choosing the Right Scallops
For ceviche, always use high-quality, sushi-grade scallops, as they will be served raw.
✔ Day Boat Scallops (Diver Scallops) – Sustainably harvested and exceptionally fresh.
✔ Japanese Hokkaido Scallops – Sweet, firm, and considered among the best for raw consumption.
✔ Atlantic Sea Scallops – Large and naturally sweet, perfect for slicing into ceviche.
Pro Tip: Dry-packed scallops (without added preservatives) are the best choice for raw dishes. Avoid wet-packed scallops, which contain added moisture and chemicals.
Essential Ingredients for Scallop Ceviche with Avocado Mousse
A. Ingredients for the Scallop Ceviche (Serves 4-6)
✔ 10-12 large fresh scallops (sushi-grade, thinly sliced into rounds or cubes)
✔ ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
✔ ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
✔ 1 tbsp yuzu juice (optional, for a floral citrus note)
✔ 1 small red chili (finely chopped, for heat)
✔ ½ small red onion (thinly sliced or finely diced)
✔ ¼ cup cilantro leaves (chopped)
✔ 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
✔ Salt & freshly ground white pepper (to taste)
B. Ingredients for the Avocado Mousse
✔ 2 ripe avocados
✔ ¼ cup Greek yogurt or crème fraîche
✔ 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
✔ 1 tbsp olive oil
✔ Salt & pepper (to taste)
C. Optional Garnishes
✔ Microgreens (cilantro, amaranth, or basil) – Adds freshness and color.
✔ Pickled shallots – Provides a tangy crunch.
✔ Radish slices – Offers a crisp, peppery contrast.
✔ Caviar or salmon roe – Elevates the dish with umami depth.
✔ Toasted coconut flakes – Adds a subtle tropical note.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Scallop Ceviche
A. Preparing the Scallop Ceviche
- Slice the Scallops
- Using a sharp knife, slice the scallops into thin rounds or small cubes (¼-inch thick).
- Place in a chilled glass or ceramic bowl.
- Marinate in Citrus Juice
- Pour lime juice, orange juice, and yuzu juice over the scallops.
- Add red onion, chili, olive oil, salt, and white pepper.
- Toss gently and let marinate for 15-20 minutes in the fridge.
- Add Fresh Herbs & Adjust Flavor
- Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more citrus, salt, or spice if needed.
B. Preparing the Avocado Mousse
- Blend Until Smooth
- In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, yogurt, lime juice, and olive oil.
- Blend until completely smooth and airy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill Before Serving
- Transfer to a piping bag or airtight container and chill for 10-15 minutes for a firmer texture.
Plating & Presentation: Fine Dining Aesthetics
A. Elegant Plating Techniques
✔ Layering Method: Spread a thin base of avocado mousse on a chilled plate and arrange the scallop ceviche on top.
✔ Circular Ring Mold: Use a mold to shape the avocado mousse at the center of the plate, topping it with scallop slices.
✔ Minimalist Style: Arrange scallops in a single row or semi-circle, with avocado mousse piped between each piece.
B. Garnishing for Visual & Textural Appeal
✔ Microgreens & Edible Flowers – Adds an artistic touch.
✔ Radish Slices or Pickled Shallots – Provides crisp contrast.
✔ Drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Citrus Reduction – Enhances gloss and richness.
✔ Caviar or Salmon Roe – A luxurious topping with bursts of umami.
Perfect Pairings for Scallop Ceviche with Avocado Mousse
A. Wine Pairings: Fresh, Crisp & Aromatic
✔ Albariño (Spain) – Bright acidity, citrus, and saline notes complement seafood.
✔ Sauvignon Blanc (Sancerre, Loire Valley) – Zesty, grassy, and refreshing.
✔ Champagne or Blanc de Blancs – Effervescence enhances the scallops’ delicate sweetness.
✔ Riesling (Dry or Off-Dry) – Balances citrus and heat beautifully.
B. Creative Cocktail Pairings
✔ Margarita with a Yuzu Twist – Bright and zesty with a floral note.
✔ Cucumber & Basil Gin Fizz – Herbal freshness complements the dish.
✔ Coconut & Lime Mojito – Tropical flavors enhance the creamy avocado.
C. Light Side Dishes for a Balanced Meal
✔ Tostones (Crispy Plantain Chips) – A crunchy contrast to the ceviche.
✔ Coconut Rice or Cilantro-Lime Rice – Mildly sweet to balance acidity.
✔ Seaweed Crackers or Crispy Wontons – Adds an extra texture to the dish.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Scallop Ceviche
✔ Use the freshest scallops possible – If unsure, ask your fishmonger for sushi-grade.
✔ Do not over-marinate – 15-20 minutes is ideal; too long will make the scallops too firm.
✔ Balance citrus and sweetness – Orange juice softens the sharpness of lime juice.
✔ Keep the avocado mousse creamy, not too stiff – Blend it just until smooth and airy.
✔ Chill everything before serving – Cold ceviche enhances flavors and textures.
The Perfect Summer & Fine Dining Seafood Dish
Scallop ceviche with avocado mousse is a perfect marriage of brightness, creaminess, and ocean-fresh flavors. Whether served as a refined appetizer or a star dish for a seafood-inspired tasting menu, this dish offers an elegant balance of textures and flavors.
By mastering precise slicing, proper danatoto marination, and thoughtful plating, you can bring a world-class dining experience to your own table.
So, grab the freshest scallops, blend a creamy avocado mousse, and plate like a Michelin-star chef—because this dish is meant to be savored in style. 🍽️✨
