Cilantro lime grilled shrimp skewers

Cilantro lime grilled shrimp skewers offer a zesty and refreshing flavor through marinated shrimp grilled to perfection. This quick recipe combines lime, coriander, and jalapeno for a delightful summer dish.

13 Feb 2026
Cook time 6 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

16 oz shrimps
1/4 cup lime juice
1 lime
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp coriander leaves
1/2 jalapeno pepper
1 garlic clove
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper

Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a delicious, zesty, and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a quick and easy way to bring a burst of flavor to your meal, blending the tanginess of lime, the kick of jalapeno, and the freshness of cilantro. The succulent shrimp absorbs these incredible flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Rinse the shrimps under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- If not already done, peel and devein the shrimps.

2. Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, coriander leaves, finely chopped jalapeno pepper, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together to make the marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimps marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours to avoid over-marinating.

3. Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashed over and have a medium-high heat.

4. Skewer the Shrimp:
- Remove the shrimps from the marinade and thread them onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
- If using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaked in water to prevent them from burning.

5. Grill the Shrimp:
- Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill.
- Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimps are opaque and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking as the shrimps can become tough.

6. Baste While Grilling:
- Use a basting brush to occasionally brush some of the leftover marinade onto the shrimps while they are grilling for additional flavor. Ensure not to use raw marinade during the final cooking stages to avoid contamination.

7. Serve:
- Remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two.
- Serve the cilantro lime grilled shrimp skewers immediately with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables.

Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. The combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors makes this recipe a standout. By following the steps and tips provided, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave your taste buds craving more. Serve these skewers with your favorite sides and watch as they quickly become a favorite among your family and friends.

Cilantro lime grilled shrimp skewers FAQ:

What is the ideal marinating time for shrimp?

For the best flavor, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours. Over-marinating can result in a mushy texture.

How can I tell when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and slightly charred, typically after grilling for 2-3 minutes on each side. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it's important to fully thaw them first. Rinse and dry thoroughly before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.

What size skewers should I use for grilling shrimp?

Use 6- to 8-inch skewers, ensuring they are soaked in water if wooden, to prevent burning on the grill.

What can I substitute for lime juice in this recipe?

You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice or a vinegar-based marinade, though this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Cooking Tips:

- Choose fresh shrimps, preferably large ones, for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.

- Marinate the shrimp for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate, but avoid marinating for too long to prevent the shrimp from becoming mushy.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent the shrimp from sticking.

- Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.

- For additional flavor, you can brush some reserved marinade (set aside before marinating the shrimp) on the skewers during grilling.

- Serve the grilled shrimp skewers with a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 90kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 4.42g
Fiber 0.61g
Sugar 0.62g
Fat 4.58g

Cilantro lime grilled shrimp skewers