Description
Zesty cilantro lime shrimp delivers a Mexican-inspired coastal explosion of fresh flavors and quick-cooking seafood magic. Succulent jumbo shrimp shine with tangy citrus and herbal notes, promising a delightful meal packed with bright, bold character that promises to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a smoky kick)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Juice of 2 limes (~¼ cup or 60 milliliters)
- ½ teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Thoroughly dry the shrimp using paper towels, ensuring no excess moisture remains.
- Create a flavorful marinade by gently coating the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to become hot and evenly heated.
- Carefully place the seasoned shrimp into the skillet, arranging them in a single layer to promote even cooking.
- Cook the shrimp for approximately 2 minutes on each side, watching for a beautiful pink color and translucent appearance that indicates perfect doneness.
- Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate, keeping them warm and ready for the next step.
- Reduce the skillet’s heat to low, creating a gentle environment for the sauce.
- Introduce velvety butter, freshly squeezed lime juice, and aromatic lime zest to the pan, stirring continuously.
- Deglaze the skillet by scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom, incorporating them into the developing sauce.
- Return the perfectly cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to ensure each piece is luxuriously coated with the citrusy butter sauce.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and optional red pepper flakes over the shrimp, adding a final burst of color and flavor.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, allowing the vibrant aromatics to tantalize the senses.
Notes
- Pat the shrimp completely dry to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming, which helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Use fresh lime zest and juice for a vibrant, bright flavor that elevates the entire dish, creating a zesty and refreshing taste profile.
- Adjust the heat level by controlling red pepper flakes, making this recipe friendly for those who prefer mild or spicier seafood dishes.
- Serve immediately after coating shrimp in sauce to maintain optimal texture and prevent overcooking, preserving the shrimp’s tender, juicy consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 200 mg