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Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Shrimp

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a vibrant, flavorful dish that promises to elevate any meal. This quick and easy recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty roasted garlic sauce infused with fresh cilantro and lime juice. Perfect as a tantalizing appetizer or a main course over pasta or rice, this dish delivers a delightful taste explosion in every bite. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable—feel free to substitute cilantro with your favorite herbs like basil or parsley for a personal touch!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 small head garlic
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • 1 tablespoon dry white apple vinegar (optional; substitute with more lime juice)
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for coating the shrimp)
  • 2 tablespoons harissa (or your favorite chili paste)
  • 1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined large shrimp (pre-peeled thawed frozen shrimp work well)
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preparing the oven ahead of time ensures that your garlic roasts perfectly.
  2. Use a serrated knife to trim the top off the whole head of garlic. Expose the cloves while keeping them intact. Set it on a large sheet of foil and drizzle generously with olive oil. Close the foil to wrap it tightly. Roast in the heated oven for about 10 minutes or until slightly tender and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool briefly.
  3. Once cool enough to handle, peel and crush or chop the roasted garlic as finely as possible.
  4. In a small bowl, combine roasted garlic, cilantro, lime juice, white apple vinegar (if using), extra virgin olive oil, and harissa. Whisk together until well blended and set aside.
  5. Heat your cast iron skillet, grill, or indoor griddle over high heat. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over them and toss gently. Arrange on the preheated surface and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn just pink—this usually takes around five minutes total.
  6. Immediately toss the cooked shrimp in your flavorful roasted garlic sauce. Serve right away while warm for an unforgettable dining experience.

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