Experience a burst of freshness with our Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp and Rice! This dish pairs succulent shrimp with the vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It's a simple yet flavorful meal that's perfect for a quick dinner or a delightful lunch, bringing a touch of the tropics to your table.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Sugar: 2 g
Ingredients
- 400 g (0.88 lbs or 14 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200 g (0.44 lbs or 7 oz) white rice, uncooked
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 30 g (0.066 lbs or 1 oz) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, additional lime wedges for serving
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Cook Rice: Prepare rice according to package instructions. Set aside and keep warm.
- Season Shrimp: Toss shrimp with lime zest, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Combine: Stir in lime juice and half of the chopped cilantro.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the shrimp over the rice. Garnish with the remaining cilantro and optional red pepper flakes. Serve with lime wedges if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Perfect Shrimp: Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and slightly firm to the touch.
- Rice Consistency: For fluffy rice, let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing with a fork.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cumin or paprika to the shrimp for an extra flavor dimension.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely, just adjust the cooking time as per the brown rice instructions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño when cooking the shrimp.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.