Description
This Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe features juicy jumbo shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, honey, and spices, then grilled to perfection. The quick marinade imparts bright and tangy flavors balanced with a hint of sweetness and mild heat, making it a perfect light and flavorful dish for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Shrimp
- 1 1/2 pounds jumbo shrimp (16/21 count), peeled and deveined
- Metal or wooden skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade. In a glass measuring cup or a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder until well combined to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Shrimp. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp into a bowl or a freezer bag, then pour the marinade over them. Stir or massage the marinade into the shrimp to ensure all pieces are well coated. Let them marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Grill and Prepare Skewers. Thread the marinated shrimp onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Preheat your grill to 400°F (approximately medium-high heat). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Shrimp. Place the shrimp skewers onto the hot grill grates. Grill the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Cook until shrimp turn pink, opaque, and form a loose C shape, indicating they are done. Avoid overcooking to retain tenderness.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Don’t over-marinate the shrimp as the acid in lime juice can start cooking them and change the texture.
- Grilling time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and grill heat, so keep a close eye on them.
- This dish pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican