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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Flavors

Featured in Delicious Dinner Ideas.

Sautéed shrimp tossed with smoky paprika, chili, and a splash of lime creates a weeknight meal that's both lively and vibrant. The combination of fresh cilantro, lime juice, and just a hint of red pepper flakes brightens tender shrimp, resulting in zesty flavors and inviting aromas. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, this dish is ideal for busy days or casual gatherings. Serve warm, topped with extra cilantro and lime, for a protein-packed dinner that feels like summer on a plate. It's naturally light, gluten-free, and suits low-carb lifestyles.

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Clare Greco
Updated on Fri, 23 May 2025 23:42:43 GMT
A bowl of shrimp with limes and herbs. Pin it
A bowl of shrimp with limes and herbs. | recipesim.com

This cilantro lime shrimp recipe brings together bright citrus, fresh herbs, and perfectly seasoned shrimp for a meal that explodes with flavor in every bite. It is a go-to for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and exciting yet quick and simple. Every forkful is zesty and light, and it always reminds me of summer barbecues shared with friends even when we make it during the coldest winter nights.

Ingredients

  • Raw shrimp: large size makes them juicy and easy to cook evenly Look for shrimp that are firm have no fishy smell and are deveined for easiest prep
  • Olive oil: gives richness and helps cook the shrimp Choose an extra virgin olive oil for the best taste
  • Smoked paprika: brings subtle smoky depth Spanish smoked paprika works beautifully here
  • Chili powder: adds warmth and a touch of heat Pick a fresh chili powder for full flavor
  • Italian seasoning: blends in herb notes that complement cilantro nicely Try to use a high quality dried mix with oregano basil rosemary and thyme
  • Red pepper flakes: offer another layer of spicy kick Use less if you are sensitive to heat
  • Salt: enhances the natural flavor of shrimp Fine sea salt works quickly to season thoroughly
  • Lime juice: freshly squeezed for bright acid punch Look for limes that feel heavy and have smooth glossy skin
  • Fresh cilantro: finishes the dish with zippy herbal notes Use leafy tops and tender stems for maximum aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Shrimp:
Toss raw shrimp in a bowl with smoked paprika chili powder Italian seasoning red pepper flakes and salt Mix until every piece is evenly coated and the seasonings cling to the shells and crevices
Heat the Pan:
Place a high sided skillet over medium heat Wait until the pan is hot enough that a drop of water sizzles away easily Add olive oil and swirl to coat but keep the oil from smoking
Cook the Shrimp:
Arrange shrimp in the pan without crowding them Each shrimp should have space so they sear not steam Cook about two minutes on the first side until you see the bottoms turning pink Flip and finish another one to two minutes on the second side Do not overcook Watch for firm opaque flesh
Toss with Lime and Cilantro:
Lower the heat and add most of the fresh lime juice plus two thirds of chopped cilantro Stir gently to coat everything and let the flavors meld for about a minute Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime or salt as needed
Finish and Serve:
Transfer shrimp to a platter and scatter the rest of the cilantro on top Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if you like
A plate of shrimp with limes and herbs. Pin it
A plate of shrimp with limes and herbs. | recipesim.com

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Shrimp tend to toughen when reheated so warm them gently on low heat or serve chilled over greens for a quick lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are not a fan of cilantro try parsley or fresh basil Scallions also work for a different flavor profile For the spice blend you can leave out the chili powder for a milder result or add smoked chipotle powder for extra depth

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cilantro lime shrimp over warm rice stuff them into corn tortillas with avocado or pile on top of a crunchy green salad I have also spooned them over roasted cauliflower for a great keto option

A plate of shrimp with a lemon wedge. Pin it
A plate of shrimp with a lemon wedge. | recipesim.com

Cultural Note

Shrimp cooked quickly with herbs and citrus is a classic in both Mediterranean and Latin American kitchens This version draws inspiration from both The bright flavors make it especially popular in the summer but I find it brings a splash of sunshine any time of year

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

Shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque, usually in 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

→ What pairs well as a side?

Serve with steamed rice, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

→ How spicy is this meal?

The chili powder and red pepper flakes add gentle heat, but you can adjust quantities for your taste.

→ Is this dish suitable for special diets?

It's naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and high in protein, making it friendly for various diets, including keto.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Flavors

Juicy shrimp sautéed with cilantro and lime for a vibrant, weeknight meal full of fresh, zesty flavor.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes

Category: Dinner Favorites

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American Mediterranean

Yield: 4 Servings (Serves 4 people)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Shrimp Seasoning

01 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
02 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
03 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
04 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
05 0.25 teaspoon salt, or to taste

→ Main Ingredients

06 680 grams raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined (approximately 15–20 pieces per 450 grams)
07 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra as needed
08 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, plus extra to taste
09 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus extra for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

Place shrimp in a large bowl. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Toss thoroughly until shrimp are evenly coated.

Step 02

Preheat a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat until hot. Pour in olive oil, ensuring it coats the bottom—oil should glide smoothly without smoking.

Step 03

Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the skillet, without overcrowding. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once or twice, until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Work in batches if necessary.

Step 04

Reduce heat to low. Add freshly squeezed lime juice and two-thirds of the chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir gently to combine. Adjust seasoning as necessary with additional salt, red pepper flakes, or lime juice. Add another tablespoon of olive oil if desired.

Step 05

Transfer cooked shrimp to a serving platter. Top with the remaining chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Notes

  1. To prevent overcooking, remove shrimp from the skillet as soon as they become opaque and curl into a loose ‘C’ shape.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large high-sided skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 213
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2 g
  • Protein: 34 g