Save This zesty chili lime grilled shrimp recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish in under 30 minutes. The vibrant marinade infuses the shrimp with bold flavors while the creamy cilantro sauce adds a cooling contrast that makes every bite memorable.
I first made this recipe for an impromptu summer gathering when temperatures hit record highs. The combination of grilling outdoors and the refreshing citrus flavors made it an instant hit. Now it's my go to impressive yet effortless dish whenever I want to make dinner feel special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp Marinade: 1 ½ lbs large raw shrimp peeled and deveined with tails on look for firm shrimp with translucent flesh and no ammonia smell
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: provides moisture and helps spices adhere to the shrimp
- Zest and juice of 2 limes: fresh limes yield more juice when rolled firmly before squeezing
- 2 cloves garlic minced: adds aromatic depth to the marinade
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: provides warm spice without overwhelming heat
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: adds subtle smokiness that complements the grill flavor
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: brings earthy notes that anchor the citrus flavors
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: enhances all flavors in the marinade
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: adds gentle heat and complexity
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional: adds customizable heat level
- For the Cilantro Sauce: 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves packed look for bright green bunches without wilting
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: creates silky texture in the sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: brightens the sauce with acidity
- 1 small jalapeño seeded and chopped: provides gentle heat without overwhelming
- 1 clove garlic: adds pungent depth to balance the fresh herbs
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt: creates creamy texture and cooling effect
- ¼ teaspoon salt: balances and enhances the fresh flavors
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- Combine olive oil lime zest juice garlic and all spices in a large bowl. The acid from the lime begins to tenderize the shrimp while the oil helps the spices adhere. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices before adding shrimp.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated. Allow to rest for 15 minutes at room temperature. This brief marination time is perfect as the lime juice would start cooking the shrimp if left too long.
- Make the Cilantro Sauce:
- While shrimp marinates add all sauce ingredients to a blender or food processor. Pulse initially to break down the cilantro then blend continuously until smooth with small flecks of green remaining. The sauce should have a pourable consistency that will cling to the shrimp.
- Prepare for Grilling:
- Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers arranging them so they lie flat. Leave small spaces between each shrimp to ensure even cooking. If using wooden skewers soak them for 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Grill to Perfection:
- Heat grill or grill pan to medium high heat until hot but not smoking. Place skewers on the grill and cook for exactly 2 to 3 minutes per side. Watch carefully as shrimp cook quickly. They are done when they turn pink opaque and develop light char marks.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Arrange grilled shrimp on a serving platter. Drizzle with cilantro sauce or serve sauce alongside for dipping. Garnish with additional lime wedges and fresh cilantro leaves for both presentation and added flavor.
Save The smoked paprika is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power during a cooking class in Barcelona where our instructor used it in nearly everything. The subtle smokiness mimics hours of slow cooking even in quick recipes like this one. My family now requests this shrimp recipe specifically by asking for that smoky shrimp dish with the green sauce.
Make Ahead Tips
While this recipe comes together quickly you can still prep components ahead of time to make dinner assembly even faster. The cilantro sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving as some separation may occur.
The shrimp marinade ingredients can be combined and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. However wait to add the shrimp until 15 to 30 minutes before cooking. The acid in the lime juice will begin to cook the shrimp if left too long resulting in a tough rubbery texture.
Perfect Pairings
This versatile shrimp recipe pairs beautifully with numerous sides. For a complete meal serve alongside cilantro lime rice and grilled vegetables for a cohesive flavor profile. The citrus elements tie everything together while the rice soaks up any extra sauce.
For a lighter option arrange the grilled shrimp over a bed of mixed greens with avocado slices mango chunks and a sprinkle of pepitas. The cilantro sauce doubles as a perfect dressing for this tropical inspired salad.
For an appetizer presentation serve the shrimp on small plates with the sauce in individual dipping bowls. Provide extra lime wedges and cold Mexican beer for an irresistible starter that will have guests reaching for seconds.
Indoor Cooking Alternative
No grill? No problem. This recipe adapts beautifully to indoor cooking methods. A cast iron grill pan preheated over medium high heat will produce similar char marks and flavor. Ensure proper ventilation as the spices may create some smoke.
Alternatively broil the shrimp on skewers for 2 minutes per side positioned about 4 inches from the heating element. Watch carefully as broilers vary significantly in temperature and shrimp can overcook quickly.
For the simplest method sauté the marinated shrimp in a large skillet over medium high heat for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. While you won't get grill marks the flavor will remain delicious and the cooking process becomes even faster.
Save Enjoy this flavorful and quick grilled shrimp dish. The combination of zesty marinade and creamy sauce is sure to impress.