Description
This Cilantro-Lime Shrimp recipe features juicy shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lime juice, garlic, and vibrant cilantro, then quickly sautéed to perfection. It’s a bright, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a tasty addition to tacos, salads, or rice bowls.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Marinade:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse, but avoid marinating longer to prevent the acid from ‘cooking’ the shrimp.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to warm thoroughly to ensure a good sear on the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the marinated shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes on one side until pink and opaque, then flip and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes on the other side.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the heat once fully cooked and serve immediately with extra cilantro and lime wedges as garnish. This shrimp pairs wonderfully with tortillas, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Do not over-marinate the shrimp as the lime juice can start to ‘cook’ them, resulting in a mushy texture.
- Use shrimp that are fresh or properly thawed if frozen for best results.
- You can adjust the chili powder amount depending on how spicy you like the dish.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure all your seasonings and oil are certified gluten-free.
- Serve immediately after cooking for optimal texture and flavor.
