Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Name: Cilantro Lime Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 small head garlic; 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves; 1 lime (juiced); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons harissa (or chili paste); 1.5 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined); Kosher salt and black pepper

Published: August 1, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of total time, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The roasted garlic and cilantro sauce brings an irresistible depth of flavor to every bite.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, over pasta, or even in tacos for a delicious twist.
Healthy Ingredients: Full of protein and low in carbs, this shrimp dish fits into many healthy eating plans.
Customizable: Swap out cilantro for your favorite herbs to make this dish your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet or grill
Serrated knife
Large sheet of foil
Small mixing bowl
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet or grill: Provides high heat for perfectly cooked shrimp with a nice sear.
Serrated knife: Ideal for cutting through garlic heads without crushing them.
Whisk: Ensures even mixing of the sauce ingredients for balanced flavor.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

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)
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 temperature is perfect for roasting garlic until tender.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Use a serrated knife to trim the top off the whole head of garlic, exposing the cloves while keeping the bunch intact. Place it on a large sheet of foil, drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, and wrap it tightly in the foil. Roast in the heated oven for about 10 minutes or until slightly tender and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow it 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. The goal is to create a smooth base for your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the roasted garlic, chopped cilantro leaves, lime juice, white apple vinegar (if using), extra virgin olive oil, and harissa. Whisk together until well combined and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over high heat. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season them with kosher salt and black pepper. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over them and toss lightly. Arrange on your preheated surface and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn just pink. Avoid overcooking; even large shrimp will be ready within about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Immediately toss the grilled shrimp in your delicious roasted garlic cilantro sauce. Serve hot as an appetizer or alongside pasta for a fulfilling meal!

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 and dipping.
Pair with toothpicks for a fun party starter that guests will love.

Over Pasta

Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Add some cherry tomatoes and arugula for extra flavor and freshness.

In Tacos

Use warm corn tortillas as a base for the shrimp.
Top with avocado slices, shredded cabbage, and a sprinkle of lime juice.

On a Salad

Create a refreshing salad by placing the shrimp over mixed greens.
Drizzle with additional cilantro lime dressing for extra zing.

With Rice

Serve alongside fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Consider adding steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

As Part of a Platter

Arrange the shrimp on a platter with dipping sauces like salsa or aioli.
Include fresh veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers for crunch.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp

To achieve the best results when making Cilantro Lime Shrimp, follow these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and juicy limes add vibrant flavors that dried herbs cannot replicate.
Don’t overcook: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink. This helps maintain their tenderness and juiciness.
Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by varying the amount of harissa used in the sauce to match your preference.
Marinate beforehand: Allowing the shrimp to marinate in the sauce for 15-30 minutes can deepen the flavors before cooking.
Utilize high heat: Cooking at high temperatures ensures a nice sear on the shrimp, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Serve immediately: Enjoying this dish right after cooking allows you to savor its freshness and vibrant flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Shrimp pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are some excellent choices that will elevate your meal.

Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery loaf that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the shrimp.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs provides added protein and fiber to balance your meal.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the zesty flavors of the shrimp – grill it or boil it for best results!
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, making it an ideal pairing with spicy shrimp.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and feta brings Mediterranean flair to your dining experience.
Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad featuring ripe avocados enhances richness while keeping things light.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned simply with salt will balance out the intense flavors of the shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cilantro Lime Shrimp, even small errors can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make it tough and rubbery. To avoid this, cook shrimp for just 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland shrimp. Make sure to season the shrimp with kosher salt and black pepper before cooking to enhance the flavors.
Skipping the sauce: The roasted garlic sauce is what makes this dish stand out. Don’t skip making it! Combine all ingredients well to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Using cold shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect sear without steaming.
Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro elevates the dish significantly. Using dried herbs instead will not give you the same vibrant flavor profile.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Ensure the shrimp are completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place shrimp on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Cilantro Lime Shrimp pairs well as an appetizer or served over pasta or rice. You can also use it in tacos or salads for added freshness.

Can I substitute cilantro in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh basil, parsley, or mint can be great alternatives that still provide a fresh taste.

How do I know when my shrimp are done?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl slightly but not tightly.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are thawed completely and patted dry before cooking for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you choose it as an appetizer or a main course with pasta, this recipe shines with its fresh flavors. Feel free to customize by switching up herbs or adding your favorite spices to make it your own! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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