A quick and flavorful Cilantro-Lime Shrimp And Rice dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
There is no better feeling in the world than whipping up a dinner for your family in only thirty minutes, but still having it become an honorary member of the clean-plate club! For my family, this cilantro-lime shrimp and rice was one of the first to meet this criterion.
I used to think good meals had to be a labor of love, but life’s busy pace quickly taught me otherwise. This shrimp and rice recipe strikes the perfect balance: a hearty, delicious meal my family loves and requests often, without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s proof that simplicity can be just as satisfying.
The shrimp, seasoned with paprika and cumin, brings smoky warmth that pairs perfectly with the fresh burst of cilantro and lime-infused rice. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is remarkably easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual dinners. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be tailored to fit a variety of dietary preferences.
Is Cilantro Lime Shrimp and Rice Healthy?
This shrimp and rice dish is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that are both flavorful and good for you. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals, like selenium and vitamin B12. The use of fresh lime and cilantro adds a burst of antioxidants, while the modest amount of butter keeps the dish rich without being overly heavy.
If you’re looking to make the recipe even lighter, consider substituting the butter with a heart-healthy oil like avocado or olive oil. This also makes the dish dairy-free!
What Types Of Rice Can I Use?
This recipe calls for basmati rice because of its light, fluffy texture and subtly nutty flavor, which complements the shrimp and lime beautifully. Basmati rice also cooks quickly and absorbs the citrus and herb flavors seamlessly, making it a perfect match for this dish.
That said, you have plenty of options when it comes to rice. Jasmine rice, with its fragrant aroma, is a great alternative, though it’s slightly stickier in texture. Brown rice adds a hearty, nutty element and is higher in fiber, though it takes a bit longer to cook. For those following low-carb diets, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute that maintains the freshness of the dish while cutting down on carbohydrates. Ultimately, use whatever rice you have on hand; the flavors of the shrimp and lime will shine regardless!
How To Make Ahead And Store
To store this dish, transfer any leftovers or pre-prepped portions to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer where it will keep for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It’s best to use a skillet when reheating to preserve the texture of the shrimp and rice. Avoid storing this dish at room temperature for extended periods, as both shrimp and rice can go off quickly. If you’re meal-prepping, you can make the rice ahead of time and cook the shrimp fresh for optimal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
There are so many delicious veggie side dishes that pair well with this cilantro-lime shrimp and rice! For a Mexican-inspired meal, I love to make a Mexican Street Corn Salad or some Elote alongside a few spoonfuls of Pico De Gallo. This dish also goes great with Air-Fryer Plantains and Sautéed Spinach, though my go-to is always Sautéed Broccolini.
Ingredients
For The Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
For The Shrimp:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic sliced
- 14 ounces shrimp uncooked and deveined
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 lime cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Add the rice, water, and salt to a pot. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water has evaporated. Remove from the heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic, shrimp, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the shrimp flesh turns pink and white. Set aside.
- Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Add the cilantro and lime juice, and toss it all together. Serve the shrimp with the cilantro-lime rice, and serve with an extra wedge of lime.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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