Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its vibrant flavors of lime and fresh cilantro, this recipe stands out not only for its taste but also for its simplicity. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a delightful meal, these shrimp will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 14 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime juice, garlic, and spices creates a zesty marinade that enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone, on skewers, or over a bed of rice or salad—perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and low in calories, this recipe supports healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook in batches and enjoy delicious leftovers or make ahead for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process and ensure a successful outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• wooden skewers
• grill or grill pan
• mixing bowl
• measuring spoons
• knife
• cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden Skewers: Perfect for holding shrimp together while grilling, ensuring even cooking.
• Grill or Grill Pan: Provides that smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks that enhance presentation.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for marinating shrimp evenly with all the flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• wooden skewers
• 1 pound shrimp, (peeled and de-veined)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
• 1 medium lime, (juiced)
• 3 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

For Serving

• fresh lime wedges, (for serving)
• 1 medium avocado

For the Sauce

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 medium lime, (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon dry Ranch dressing seasoning
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

How to Make Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, vegetable oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin powder, paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and chopped cilantro. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the peeled and de-veined shrimp to the marinade. Make sure each shrimp is fully coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

While the shrimp marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Skewer the Shrimp

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Ensure they are placed close together but not overcrowded to allow even cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Place the skewered shrimp on the grill. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt with milk, chopped cilantro, lime juice, dry Ranch dressing seasoning, and salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 7: Serve

Remove shrimp from skewers if desired. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges and sliced avocado on the side alongside your creamy sauce. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp!

How to Serve Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these shrimp are sure to impress. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.

Tacos

• Use corn or flour tortillas to wrap the grilled shrimp. Add fresh veggies like shredded cabbage and diced tomatoes for a colorful and tasty meal.

Salad

• Toss the grilled shrimp over a bed of mixed greens, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the shrimp on a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. Top with black beans, corn, and cilantro for a hearty and healthy bowl.

Appetizer Skewers

• Thread the shrimp onto smaller skewers and serve as an appetizer. Pair with a zesty dipping sauce for added flavor.

Sandwich

• Pile the grilled shrimp onto a toasted bun with fresh lettuce, slices of avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a delightful sandwich option.

Pasta Dish

• Mix the grilled shrimp into your favorite pasta along with some olive oil, garlic, and green vegetables for a quick yet satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

To achieve perfectly grilled cilantro lime shrimp every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate Well: Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors from the cilantro and lime.

• Use Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the shrimp. This will help achieve those nice grill marks while cooking evenly.

• Watch Cooking Time: Grill the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with grilled cilantro lime shrimp can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grill corn on the cob and slather it with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for an irresistible side.

2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with fresh cilantro and lime juice adds brightness to your plate.

3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip paired with tortilla chips provides a perfect crunchy contrast to the succulent shrimp.

4. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, diced peppers, and lime dressing makes an excellent accompaniment.

5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers tossed in olive oil can be grilled alongside the shrimp.

6. Chips and Salsa: Fresh tortilla chips served with tangy salsa create a fun snack or starter before your meal.

7. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw adds crunchiness and balances out the flavors of the grilled shrimp.

8. Corn Salad: Combining sweet corn with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro creates a vibrant side dish that pairs wonderfully with seafood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook certain steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.

• Overcrowding Skewers: Placing too many shrimp on each skewer can result in uneven cooking. Use 4-5 shrimp per skewer for even grilling.

• Using Raw Shrimp: Always use peeled and de-veined shrimp for this recipe. Raw shrimp will not absorb the marinade properly, affecting the final flavor.

• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking shrimp on a grill that isn’t hot enough can make them rubbery. Preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the skewers.

• Underestimating Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly, usually in just a few minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and making them tough.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• To freeze, place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What can I serve with Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with rice, salad, or corn on the cob. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How spicy is this Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe?

The spice level is mild to moderate but can be adjusted by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper as desired.

Can I customize the marinade for Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can add other herbs or spices like oregano or swap lime juice for lemon juice based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe shines during summer gatherings but is perfect any time of year. Customize it with your favorite herbs or spices and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 14 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. This easy-to-make recipe features succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices that enhance their natural sweetness. In just 14 minutes, you can have this mouthwatering meal on the table, impressing your guests with both taste and presentation. Whether served on skewers, over rice, or in tacos, these grilled shrimp are sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, they are healthy and packed with protein, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and de-veined)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for sauce)
• 1 medium lime (juiced for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon dry Ranch dressing seasoning
• ⅛ teaspoon salt (for sauce)
• Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
• 1 medium avocado (for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, vegetable oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and chopped cilantro.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit covered in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes.
4. Skewer marinated shrimp closely but not overcrowded.
5. Grill shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
6. For the sauce, mix Greek yogurt with milk, cilantro, lime juice, dry Ranch dressing seasoning, and salt until smooth.
7. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges and sliced avocado.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 85g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 160mg