Cilantro Lime Shrimp

All-star shrimp recipe, tossed in the best roasted garlic and herb sauce! Cilantro Lime Shrimp is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal. This dish stands out with its vibrant flavors, thanks to fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice. Serve it as a delightful appetizer or pair it with pasta for a satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic, cilantro, and lime creates an irresistible sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as an appetizer, over pasta, or even in tacos!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this shrimp dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Customizable: If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, feel free to substitute with fresh basil or parsley.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or grill
• Serrated knife
• Aluminum foil
• Whisk
• Small mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or grill: Ideal for high-heat cooking to achieve perfectly seared shrimp.
• Serrated knife: Makes trimming garlic easy without squishing the cloves.
• Aluminum foil: Perfect for roasting garlic while keeping it moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 1 small head garlic
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon dry white apple vinegar (optional)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for coating the shrimp)
• 2 tablespoons harissa (or your favorite chili paste)
• 1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined large shrimp (pre-peeled thawed frozen shrimp work well)
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This prepares it for roasting the garlic.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

• Use a serrated knife to trim the top off the whole head of garlic.
• Set it on a large sheet of foil and drizzle generously with olive oil.
• Close the foil to wrap the garlic tight.
• Roast in the heated oven for about 10 minutes until slightly tender and fragrant.
• Remove from the oven and let cool briefly.

Step 3: Process the Garlic

Once cool enough to handle:
* Peel and crush or chop the roasted garlic as finely as possible.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl:
* Combine roasted garlic, cilantro, lime juice, white apple vinegar (if using), extra virgin olive oil, and harissa.
* Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Heat your cast iron skillet or grill over high heat:
* Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
* Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over them and toss.
* Arrange on the preheated surface and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn just pink—about 5 minutes total.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Immediately toss cooked shrimp in the roasted garlic sauce:
Serve right away for best flavor!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the shrimp on skewers for easy handling. This makes them perfect for cocktail parties or casual gatherings.
• Pair with toothpicks for individual servings. Guests can easily grab and enjoy without any fuss.

Over Pasta

• Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta. The roasted garlic sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the noodles beautifully.
• Consider adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

In Tacos

• Use warm tortillas to create delicious shrimp tacos. Top with avocado, cabbage, and extra cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Add a squeeze of lime just before serving to enhance the flavor profile.

On Salad

• Serve the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with additional cilantro lime dressing for added zest.
• Incorporate other ingredients like avocado or mango for a tropical flair.

With Rice

• Accompany the shrimp with jasmine or basmati rice. The fluffy grains soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
• For an extra touch, garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option. Fill them with shrimp and your choice of toppings.
• Add crunchy veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots for texture.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp

To ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture with your Cilantro Lime Shrimp, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh cilantro and limes elevate the dish’s flavor immensely compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t overcook – Cook the shrimp just until they’re pink; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
• Adjust spice levels – If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of harissa or chili paste in the sauce.
• Preheat cooking surface – Ensure your skillet or grill is hot enough before adding shrimp; this helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Marinate for flavor – Letting shrimp sit in the sauce for a few minutes before cooking allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Experiment with herbs – If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try basil, parsley, or mint as alternatives in your sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Cilantro Lime Shrimp can create a well-rounded meal that delights everyone at your table. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy and buttery, this bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the shrimp.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and feta cheese offers great texture and nutrients.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add color and depth to your plate.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that balances out the richness of the shrimp.
5. Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base that complements the flavors of the dish.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with lime butter provides sweetness that pairs well with spicy shrimp dishes.
7. Spanish Rice – Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices enhances each bite of shrimp beautifully.
8. Fruit Salsa – A refreshing salsa made from pineapple or mango adds sweetness and brightness to contrast with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cilantro Lime Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they are just pink.
• Using old garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Check your garlic for sprouting or softness before using it.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning with salt and pepper. Properly seasoning the shrimp enhances their flavor significantly.
• Skipping the resting time: Allow your roasted garlic to cool before handling. This makes it easier to process and prevents burns.
• Improper storage: If you have leftovers, ensure they are stored properly to maintain freshness. Use airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the shrimp are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place shrimp on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts (30 seconds), checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and warm the shrimp gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well as long as they are thawed properly before cooking.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

Feel free to substitute cilantro with fresh basil, parsley, or mint for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time but cook the shrimp fresh right before serving for best results.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Remove them from heat as soon as they reach this color to avoid overcooking.

What should I serve with Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it as an appetizer with dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe stands out due to its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or alongside pasta, it’s sure to impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to customize it by trying different herbs or adding spices according to your taste preferences! Enjoy this versatile dish at any meal!

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cilantro Lime Shrimp, a dish that effortlessly combines fresh ingredients with zesty notes to create an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe features succulent shrimp coated in a roasted garlic and herb sauce, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a lively dinner party or a cozy family meal. The sharpness of lime juice and the aromatic presence of fresh cilantro elevate this dish, allowing it to shine as a delightful appetizer or a satisfying main course when paired with pasta or tacos. Quick and easy to prepare, Cilantro Lime Shrimp is not only delicious but also healthy, packed with protein and low in carbs. Dive into this flavorful journey and impress your guests with this versatile dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 small head garlic
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Kosher salt & black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Trim the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 10 minutes until tender.
3. Once cooled, crush or chop the roasted garlic.
4. In a bowl, mix roasted garlic, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and harissa until combined.
5. Heat a skillet over high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink.
6. Toss cooked shrimp in the garlic sauce immediately and serve.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 430mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 220mg