Garlic Lime Grilled Shrimp (Printable Version)
Juicy shrimp marinated in lime and garlic, seared in a hot skillet for a bright, quick weeknight main.
# Ingredient List:
→ Shrimp
01 - 1½ pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
→ Marinade
02 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
05 - 1 teaspoon lime zest (from 1 lime)
06 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
08 - ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
09 - ½ teaspoon salt
10 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Garnish
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - Lime wedges, for serving
# How to Make It:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, lime zest, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
02 - Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Let sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
03 - Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
04 - Place marinated shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Work in batches as necessary. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
05 - Transfer cooked shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It's unbelievably fast to throw together, and the marinade transforms simple shrimp into a punchy, restaurant-worthy dish.
- The citrusy char and the garlicky warmth are an instant mood-brightener, great for anyone looking for a healthy win at dinnertime.
02 -
- Leaving the shrimp in the lime marinade too long makes them rubbery—set a timer or you'll regret it.
- Cooking the shrimp in batches avoids steaming them—give each piece its own space for a true grill-like char.
03 -
- Dry off the shrimp with paper towels before marinating so the flavors adhere better and the shrimp sear, not steam.
- Adding the cilantro only at the end keeps it vivid and fragrant instead of wilting from the heat.