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Want a delicious and easy seafood dinner? Try chili lime shrimp! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can make it in minutes. The shrimp is bursting with flavor. A blend of chili, lime, and spices creates a vibrant taste. You can serve chili lime shrimp in many ways. This post will show you how to make perfect chili lime shrimp at home.
A Flavor Explosion
Chili lime shrimp is more than just “tasty.” The dish combines many exciting flavors.
- Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the shrimp.
- Lime juice makes the dish bright and tangy.
- Garlic and ginger create a fragrant base.
Sweet, spicy, and tangy elements work together in perfect balance:
- A little honey or brown sugar offsets the chili’s heat and the lime’s acidity.
- You can easily change the amount of spice. Use different chili peppers or chili flakes to match your taste.
Ingredients
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this dish:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Optional: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch
For the Chili Lime Sauce:
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder and/or 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- Optional: ½ teaspoon cumin or 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro for garnish
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Instructions
Get Started:
- If you want a crispy texture, toss the shrimp in a light coating of flour or cornstarch.
- You can marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes, but it’s not necessary. The sauce is already very flavorful.
Make the Sauce:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth.
Cook the Shrimp:
You can cook the shrimp in two ways:
Grilling:
- Heat your grill to high.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Metal skewers work best, but you can use soaked wooden skewers.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Pan-Searing:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add oil to the pan.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Final Steps:
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add them to the chili lime sauce.
- Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
- Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Serving Ideas and Tips
You can enjoy chili lime shrimp in many different ways:
- Classics: Serve with white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
- Tacos: Pile the shrimp into tacos. Add salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
- Salads: Toss the shrimp into your favorite salad. Avocado, mango, or black beans are great additions.
Remember these tips:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp! They will become tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Choosing Sustainable Shrimp
It is important to buy shrimp that is good for the environment.
- Wild-caught shrimp are caught in the ocean. Farmed shrimp are raised in controlled environments. Both have pros and cons.
- Look for eco-certifications like the ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council). These certifications mean the shrimp were farmed responsibly.
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program is a helpful resource. They provide recommendations for sustainable seafood choices in different regions.
Dietary Changes
Here are a few ideas to change the recipe for different diets:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. You can thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.
- Paleo/Whole30: Leave out added sugars. Use a compliant sweetener or extra lime juice for tanginess.
- Vegan/Vegetarian: You can use plant-based shrimp made from konjac or hearts of palm. Search online for recipes using these ingredients.
Conclusion
Chili lime shrimp is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish. It’s perfect for any night of the week. Try this recipe and see why it’s a new favorite! Share your results in the comments below.