Quick, zesty shrimp cooked in a chili-lime marinade with garlic and spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or tacos.
1 pound medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 2 limes
Zest of 1 lime
1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Optional garnish: lime wedges, sliced fresh chili
Combine olive oil, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, lime juice, lime zest, and honey in a bowl.
Toss shrimp in marinade until evenly coated. Marinate 10–15 minutes.
Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with cilantro, garnish with lime or chili, and serve immediately.
Do not over-marinate or overcook shrimp to maintain tenderness. Can substitute scallops or firm white fish.