Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a vibrant dish that brings summer flavors to your table. Perfect for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner, this shrimp recipe combines the zesty taste of lime with fresh cilantro. The quick preparation and grilling time make it an ideal choice for those warm evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 4 minutes of cooking, you can have a meal ready in under 15 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime, garlic, and spices creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these shrimp on skewers, in tacos, or over a salad for endless possibilities.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner party, Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, having the right tools can make all the difference. Gather your equipment to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden Skewers: These are essential for threading the shrimp to ensure even cooking on the grill.
• Grill or Grill Pan: A good grill provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that enhances the shrimp’s taste.
• Mixing Bowl: Using a bowl helps mix marinades thoroughly before coating the shrimp.

Ingredients

This is a totally delicious shrimp recipe to serve all summer long.

For the Shrimp Marinade

• 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
• 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. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the peeled and de-veined shrimp to the marinade. Toss until all shrimp are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes while you preheat your grill.

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp

Thread the marinated shrimp onto wooden skewers. Ensure they are spaced evenly to allow for proper grilling.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewered shrimp on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Prepare Avocado Sauce

While grilling, mash the avocado in a small bowl. Add Greek yogurt, milk, lime juice, Ranch dressing seasoning, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Step 6: Serve

Remove grilled shrimp from skewers if desired. Serve hot with fresh lime wedges and drizzle avocado sauce over them for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp!

How to Serve Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a vibrant dish that can elevate any summer meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Avocado Salad

• Avocado slices complement the shrimp’s flavors.
• Toss with lime juice and chopped cilantro for a refreshing contrast.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the shrimp over white or brown rice.
• The rice soaks up the delicious marinade, adding depth to each bite.

In Tacos

• Use tortillas to wrap the grilled shrimp along with fresh veggies.
• Top with a drizzle of yogurt sauce for extra creaminess.

Paired with Greek Yogurt Sauce

• A creamy yogurt sauce balances the spices in the shrimp.
• Mix Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cilantro for a zesty dip.

As an Appetizer

• Skewer small portions for easy handling.
• Serve as finger food at gatherings or parties.

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How to Perfect Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

To achieve perfectly grilled cilantro lime shrimp, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the taste and tenderness.
• Pre-soak Wooden Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling. This prevents burning and keeps your shrimp intact on the grill.
• High Heat Grilling: Grill on high heat for quick cooking. This helps achieve a nice char without overcooking the shrimp.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them tough.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh whenever possible.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with grilled cilantro lime shrimp can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the citrus flavors beautifully, especially when grilled alongside the shrimp.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced veggies adds texture and is full of nutrients.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers enhance the dish’s freshness and provide color on your plate.
4. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed black bean salad adds heartiness and pairs nicely with the spices in the shrimp.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides contrast in texture while balancing out flavors with its tangy dressing.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Infuse rice with cilantro and lime for a cohesive flavor profile that ties everything together seamlessly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp even more enjoyable. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Skipping marination time: Marinating the shrimp for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; a little patience pays off with better taste.
• Not soaking skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Ignoring seasoning balance: Too much or too little seasoning can ruin the dish. Taste the marinade before adding it to the shrimp, adjusting spices as needed.
• Using low-quality shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp make a big difference in flavor. Choose shrimp that smell fresh and have a firm texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Cool completely: Let your grilled shrimp cool down before storing.
• Store in airtight containers: Use containers that seal well to keep moisture out.
• Consume within 3 days: For best quality and safety, eat stored shrimp within three days.

Freezing Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Pack tightly: Place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring there’s minimal air inside.
• Label with date: Write the date on the bag to track freshness.
• Freeze for up to 2 months: For optimal taste and texture, use frozen shrimp within two months.

Reheating Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds at a time, checking to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp.

How long should I marinate Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating and grilling.

What can I serve with Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Adding avocado or lime wedges enhances the dish’s freshness.

Are there any variations for Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different herbs like parsley or add spices like smoked paprika for unique flavors.

What is the best way to grill shrimp?

Using skewers helps keep shrimp from falling through grill grates. Grill over medium heat until they turn pink and opaque.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or serving it with various sides. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to try it out!