Cilantro Lime Shrimp

All-star Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe, tossed in a fantastic roasted garlic and herb sauce! This dish is perfect for a shrimp appetizer or served over pasta for dinner. The standout feature of this recipe is the flavor-packed sauce that brings everything together. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with fresh basil, parsley, or mint. Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Bursting with Flavor: The roasted garlic and fresh cilantro create a vibrant sauce that elevates the shrimp.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or over pasta for a complete meal; the choice is yours!
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these shrimp are a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out cilantro for your favorite herbs to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth, a few essential tools will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or grill: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked shrimp with a nice sear.
• Serrated knife: Makes it easy to trim garlic without crushing the cloves, keeping them intact for roasting.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients smoothly when making the flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1 small head garlic
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 lime, (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon dry white apple vinegar (optional), or substitute with more lime juice
• 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for coating the shrimp)
• 2 tablespoons harissa (or your favorite chili paste)

For the Shrimp

• 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.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

• Use a serrated knife to trim the top off the whole head of garlic, exposing all cloves while keeping them intact.
• Set the garlic on a large sheet of foil, drizzle generously with olive oil, and wrap tightly in foil.
• Roast in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until slightly tender and fragrant. Remove from oven and allow to 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, chopped cilantro, lime juice, white apple vinegar (if using), extra virgin olive oil, and harissa.
* Whisk together until well mixed and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Prepare your cooking surface:
* Heat a cast iron skillet, grill, or indoor griddle over high heat.
* Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and toss gently.
* Arrange shrimp on your preheated surface. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Be cautious not to overcook!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Immediately:
* Toss cooked shrimp in the delicious roasted garlic sauce.
* Serve right away while hot!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether as an appetizer or as part of a main dish, these shrimp are sure to impress.

As a Starter

• Serve the shrimp on skewers for easy handling at parties. Pair with toothpicks for a fun finger food option.

Over Pasta

• Toss the cooked shrimp with your favorite pasta and a drizzle of olive oil. This makes for a hearty meal that’s quick and satisfying.

In Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap the shrimp, adding toppings like avocado, cabbage, and additional lime juice for a fresh twist.

With Rice

• Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds a wholesome base to soak up the flavorful sauce.

As Part of a Salad

• Incorporate the shrimp into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a cilantro-lime dressing for vibrant flavors.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the shrimp with seasonal grilled vegetables for a colorful and nutritious dish that complements the zesty flavors.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp

To achieve perfectly cooked Cilantro Lime Shrimp, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs or bottled juice.
• Don’t overcook: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the harissa level or try different chili pastes for varying heat levels.
• Marinate briefly: For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in some sauce before cooking them; this infuses them with more taste.
• Balance acidity: Adjust lime juice based on your preference; if you like it tangy, add more lime!

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with cilantro and lime zest makes an excellent base for the shrimp.
2. Grilled Corn: Sweet grilled corn brushed with lime butter enhances the summer vibe of this dish.
3. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices mixed with diced tomatoes and red onion create a refreshing counterpoint.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs offers protein and complements the shrimp well.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds crunch and color to your plate.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the shrimp!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cilantro Lime Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it tough. Aim for 2 minutes per side until just pink.
• Not seasoning properly: Seasoning shrimp with salt and pepper is crucial. Don’t skip this step for better flavor.
• Using old garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the dish. Ensure your garlic is fresh for the best taste and aroma.
• Skipping the sauce mix: The roasted garlic sauce is key. Don’t leave it out, as it adds depth and flavor to the shrimp.
• Choosing the wrong type of shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for best results. Smaller shrimp may overcook more easily.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh and prevents odors.
• Best consumed within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place shrimp on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and warm the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cilantro Lime Shrimp.

Can I substitute cilantro?

Yes, if you don’t like cilantro, try using fresh basil, parsley, or mint. Each will give a unique twist.

How do I know when the shrimp is done cooking?

Shrimp turns pink when cooked through. It should be firm but not rubbery; usually takes about 5 minutes total cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or salad. Feel free to get creative with sides!

Final Thoughts

The Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that can elevate any meal. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. You can customize it by substituting herbs or adjusting spice levels based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together succulent shrimp tossed in a roasted garlic sauce infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime. Perfect as an appetizer or served over pasta, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can impress your family or friends with this delicious meal that highlights the incredible flavors of fresh ingredients. Whether you serve it alongside grilled vegetables, in tacos, or over a bed of rice, the versatility of this dish makes it a favorite for any occasion.

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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 and black pepper

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.
3. Once cooled, peel and finely chop the roasted garlic.
4. In a bowl, combine the chopped garlic, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and harissa; whisk until mixed.
5. Heat a skillet over high heat, season shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink.
6. Toss cooked shrimp in the garlic sauce and serve immediately.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 470mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: For additional flavor, marinate the shrimp in some of the sauce before cooking. Feel free to substitute cilantro with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides like rice or salad.