This Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Shrimp recipe marries the vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro and zesty lime with the succulence of shrimp, all brought to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Get ready to indulge in a seafood dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp on skewers laying on a wooden cutting board

Why You'll Love These Savory Shrimp

Quick & Convenient. Ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavorful & Fresh. The combination of cilantro and lime offers a fresh and tangy taste that’s hard to resist.
Healthy. Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a guilt-free dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Versatile. Serve as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a taco filling—the possibilities are endless.

Air frying shrimp is a game-changer, providing a quick and less messy alternative to traditional frying methods while maintaining that desirable crispiness.

Do Cilantro Lime Shrimp Taste Good?

Absolutely! Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a favorite among seafood lovers and flavor chasers alike. This dish stands out for its ability to deliver a gourmet-tasting experience with minimal effort, making it a go-to recipe for many.

Ingredients You'll Need

Shrimp- Medium or large, peeled and deveined.
Olive Oil- For coating the shrimp, ensuring they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Fresh Cilantro- Chopped finely for a burst of herbal freshness.
Lime- Both zest and juice for that tangy kick.
Garlic- Minced, to add depth to the flavor profile.
Seasonings- Salt and black pepper to taste.

How To Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Preparation. Start by mixing the shrimp with olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Air Fry to Perfection. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, firm, and cooked through.
Garnish and Serve. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra splash of flavor.

Close up image of cilantro lime shrimp on skewers

Tips And Tricks

Making Cilantro Lime Shrimp in the air fryer is a quick, delicious way to enjoy a seafood favorite with a zesty twist. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly every time:

Avoid Overcrowding. Lay the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steamed shrimp rather than the desired slight crispiness on the outside.
Preheat the Air Fryer. Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the shrimp. A preheated air fryer helps the shrimp cook more evenly and get that slight crispness on the exterior.
Shake or Turn Halfway Through. For even cooking, gently shake the basket or use tongs to flip the shrimp halfway through the cooking time. This step is crucial for achieving an even cook and perfect texture on all sides.

Variations

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some delightful variations to try, each bringing its unique twist to the classic flavor profile:

Spicy- Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the marinade to introduce a spicy kick that complements the zesty lime and aromatic cilantro.
Creamy- After cooking, toss the shrimp in a sauce made from blended avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and a splash of coconut milk for a creamy, rich finish.
Grilled- Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers (soak wooden skewers in water first if grilling) and cook in the air fryer or on an actual grill. The skewers add a fun and festive touch.

What To Serve With Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you're aiming for a light and refreshing meal or a hearty dinner, here are some perfect accompaniments to serve with it:

Cilantro Lime Rice- Echoes the main dish's flavors and adds a zesty side to your plate.
Corn on the Cob- Grilled or boiled, buttered, and sprinkled with cilantro and lime zest for a side that screams summer.
Tacos- Serve the shrimp in soft corn tortillas with slaw, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for DIY shrimp tacos.

How Long Do They Last?

Cilantro Lime Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Can You Freeze Them?

It’s best not to freeze the cooked shrimp as it can affect their texture upon reheating. For best results, enjoy them fresh.

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