Cilantro Lime Shrimp: A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home. The vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro and zesty lime come together to create a tantalizing experience that dances on your palate. This dish has roots in Latin American cuisine, where the combination of citrus and herbs is celebrated for its refreshing qualities. I love how Cilantro Lime Shrimp not only offers a burst of flavor but also a delightful texture, with tender shrimp that are perfectly cooked and infused with the essence of lime. It’s a quick and convenient recipe that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Once you try this dish, you’ll understand why Cilantro Lime Shrimp has become a beloved staple in many households!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 avocado, diced (for serving)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for serving)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (for serving)
• Fresh lime wedges (for garnish)
• Optional: Tortillas or rice (for serving)

Marinating the Shrimp

To start, I like to marinate the shrimp to infuse them with all those delicious flavors. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Make sure the shrimp are well coated with the marinade. I usually use my hands to toss them around gently.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors even more.

Cooking the Shrimp

Once the shrimp have marinated, it’s time to cook them. I prefer using a skillet for this, but you can also grill them if you like. Here’s how I cook them:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I like to let the oil get nice and hot before adding the shrimp.
2. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook them in batches.
3. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. I usually watch for them to curl up a bit, which is a good sign they’re cooking through.
4. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
5. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. I like to squeeze a little extra lime juice over them at this point for an added zing.

Preparing the Accompaniments

While the shrimp are cooking, I like to prepare some fresh accompaniments to serve alongside. Here’s what I do:

1. Dice the avocado and place it in a bowl. I usually sprinkle a little lime juice over it to prevent browning and enhance the flavor.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to another bowl. I like to season them lightly with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
3. Finely chop the red onion and set it aside. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain it before serving.

Assembling the Dish

Now comes the fun part—assembling everything together! Here’s how I like to serve my cilantro lime shrimp:

1. If you’re using tortillas, warm them up in a dry skillet or microwave. I usually wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm.
2. On a plate or in a bowl, start with a base of warm tortillas or a scoop of rice if you prefer. I love the combination of flavors and textures!
3. Top the tortillas or rice with a generous portion of the cooked cilantro lime shrimp. I like to arrange them nicely for a beautiful presentation.
4. Add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped red onion on top of the shrimp. You can be

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire with a burst of fresh flavors and vibrant colors. The combination of zesty lime and aromatic cilantro creates a delightful marinade that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, making it a dish that is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a cozy dinner, or simply craving a light and refreshing meal, this recipe fits the bill beautifully. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Cilantro Lime Shrimp with a side of fluffy cilantro-lime rice or a crisp avocado salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it in tacos with fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of creamy sauce for a fun twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some diced mango or pineapple to the marinade for a sweet and tangy variation that will take your taste buds on a tropical getaway. I encourage you to give this Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added along the way. Cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on it! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see how you enjoy this delightful dish! Print
   

   Cilantro Lime Shrimp: A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe for Seafood Lovers

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   • Author: Maria
   • Total Time: 40 minutes
   • Yield: 4 servings

   Print Recipe

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   Description

   Enjoy a burst of flavor with these cilantro lime shrimp, marinated in zesty lime juice and spices, then quickly cooked to perfection. Serve with fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for a delightful meal!

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   Ingredients

   • Shrimp
   • Cilantro
   • Lime juice
   • Lime wedges
   • Olive oil
   • Garlic
   • Salt
   • Black pepper
   • Jalapeños (optional)
   • Cayenne pepper (optional)
   • Black beans (optional side)
   • Fresh green salad (optional side)
   • Avocado (for serving)
   • Cherry tomatoes (for serving)
   • Red onion (for serving)

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   Instructions

   1. Marinate the shrimp in lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
   2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
   3. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are pink and opaque.
   4. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnish with lime wedges on the side.
   5. Enjoy your delicious cilantro lime shrimp!

   Notes

   • For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
   • This dish pairs well with a side of black beans or a fresh green salad.
   • Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

   • Prep Time: 10 minutes
   • Cook Time: 6-8 minutes