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Fresh Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers

cilantro lime grilled shrimp skewers - featured image

A quick and easy grilled shrimp recipe featuring a bright cilantro lime marinade that delivers fresh, tangy, and smoky flavors perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed, loosely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped cilantro, lime juice and zest, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until well blended.
  2. Marinate the shrimp: Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade bowl. Toss gently to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes to avoid toughening the shrimp.
  3. Soak skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.
  4. Thread the shrimp: Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, piercing through the thickest part. Keep them snug but not squished for even cooking.
  5. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat until hot.
  6. Grill the shrimp: Place skewers on the hot grill or pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until shrimp turn pink and opaque with grill marks. Avoid overcooking.
  7. Serve immediately: Remove skewers, optionally sprinkle extra fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, and enjoy while warm and juicy.

Notes

Do not marinate shrimp longer than 30 minutes to prevent them from becoming tough. Preheat grill or pan properly to get good sear and grill marks. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to avoid burning. Avoid overcrowding skewers on the grill to ensure even cooking. Rest skewers briefly after grilling to redistribute juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp skewers, cilantro lime shrimp, grilled shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, easy dinner, seafood skewers, summer grilling