10-Minute Healthy Cilantro Lime Shrimp
A quick and refreshing shrimp dish made with garlic, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. This one-pan recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. High in protein, low in carbs, and bursting with zesty flavor, it’s a versatile option to serve over rice, in tacos, or alongside a crisp salad.
Equipment
- 1 large nonstick skillet
- Measuring Spoons
- Cutting board + knife
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined
- ¼ teaspoon + ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 5 garlic cloves crushed
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 1 medium lime
- 3 –4 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp Carefully: Begin by rinsing your peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp under cold running water. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels—removing excess moisture ensures a beautiful sear when cooking. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and sprinkle evenly with the ground cumin, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently with your hands or a spoon to coat each shrimp in the seasoning, ensuring every piece is evenly flavored.
- Heat the Skillet Properly: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to warm for about 1–2 minutes until it’s hot but not smoking. Add 1 teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil and swirl the pan so the oil lightly coats the surface. Properly heating the pan and oil ensures the shrimp will cook quickly and develop a light, flavorful crust without sticking.
- Cook the First Batch of Shrimp: Add half of the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for approximately 2 minutes. Avoid moving them around—this will allow a slight caramelization to form on one side. After 2 minutes, gently flip each shrimp using tongs or a spatula. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, just until the shrimp turns opaque and firm to the touch. Transfer this batch to a plate and set aside while you cook the remaining shrimp.
- Cook the Second Batch with Garlic: Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, place the second half of the shrimp in the pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 2 minutes, then flip them over carefully. Immediately add the crushed garlic cloves to the pan, spreading them evenly around the shrimp. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, letting the garlic infuse its aroma into the shrimp while they turn opaque and fully cooked.
- Combine Both Shrimp Batches: Return the first batch of shrimp to the skillet, joining them with the garlic-infused second batch. Gently toss all the shrimp together using a spatula or tongs, ensuring the garlic, oil, and seasonings are evenly distributed. At this stage, the shrimp should be juicy, tender, and fully cooked, with a lightly seared exterior.
- Add Fresh Lime and Cilantro: Remove the skillet from heat. Immediately squeeze 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice over the shrimp, ensuring every piece gets a burst of citrusy brightness. Sprinkle 3–4 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro on top. Gently fold the herbs and lime juice into the shrimp using a spatula or spoon, combining them without breaking the delicate shrimp. The vibrant cilantro and tangy lime elevate the flavors and create a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Serve Immediately and Enjoy: Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates. These zesty, garlicky shrimp are perfect to enjoy on their own, over a bed of fluffy rice, in tacos, or alongside a crisp salad. Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their tender, juicy best. Optional: garnish with extra lime wedges or a sprinkle of cilantro for a bright presentation.
Notes
- This recipe is quick and can be prepared in about 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Use peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp for the best texture and even cooking.
- Fresh lime juice and cilantro add a bright, zesty flavor that complements the natural sweetness of shrimp.
- Cooking shrimp in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures even searing and caramelization.
- Extra-virgin olive oil is recommended for its light flavor and healthy fats.
- Adjust cumin and garlic to taste for a more robust or milder flavor.
- This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
- Can be served on its own, over rice, or tossed in tacos or salads.
- Leftover shrimp can be stored for later use, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a fresh, vibrant presentation.
