Cilantro Lime Shrimp
A vibrant and zesty dish featuring plump shrimp tossed in a garlic, lime, and cilantro marinade. It's incredibly quick to make, perfect for tacos, salads, or a light main course. Ready in under 15 minutes!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Ingredients & Marinate Shrimp
- b.If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for getting a good sear.
- c.In a medium bowl, combine the dry shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, lime zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- d.Toss well to coat every shrimp evenly. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other components.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sear the Shrimp
- b.Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer before you add the shrimp.
- c.Carefully place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in two batches if necessary.
- d.Cook for 1-2 minutes on the first side, undisturbed, until they are pink and slightly browned at the edges.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Finish Cooking
- b.Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side until they are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as they will become tough.
- c.The total cooking time should be around 3-4 minutes depending on the size of your shrimp.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Create the Sauce and Serve
- b.Immediately remove the skillet from the heat.
- c.Add the unsalted butter, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro to the hot pan.
- d.Stir continuously until the butter has melted and created a light, glossy sauce that coats the shrimp.
- e.Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice, tacos, or salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For an extra layer of flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before cooking.
- 2Do not overcook the shrimp. They cook in just a few minutes and will become tough and rubbery if left on the heat too long. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn opaque.
- 3Patting the shrimp very dry with paper towels is the key to getting a beautiful sear instead of steaming them.
- 4Always use fresh lime juice and fresh cilantro for the most vibrant, authentic flavor.
- 5To avoid overcrowding the pan, cook the shrimp in two batches. This ensures each shrimp gets direct contact with the hot surface for a perfect sear.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Add one finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the garlic for an extra kick of heat.
Creamy Cilantro Lime ShrimpCreamy Cilantro Lime Shrimp
After adding the butter and lime juice, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in the pan before adding the shrimp to make it a complete one-pan meal.
Protein SwapProtein Swap
This marinade works wonderfully with boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) or scallops. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
This dish provides key nutrients like Vitamin C from the lime juice, which boosts immunity, and antioxidants from garlic and cilantro that help fight inflammation.
Supports Heart Health
The use of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Cilantro Lime Shrimp contains approximately 235-250 calories, making it a light and healthy meal option. The exact count can vary based on the size of the shrimp and the amount of oil used.