Sesame Cilantro Shrimp is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the nutty taste of sesame with the fresh, vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime. These shrimp are quickly marinated in a zesty blend of sesame oil, lime juice, garlic, and soy sauce, then sautéed to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy bites with a delightful crunch from the sesame seeds. This dish is light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or on its own for a delicious and healthy meal that’s full of bright, bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, discarding any excess marinade.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink, opaque, and slightly caramelized.
- Add the Sesame Seeds and Cilantro:
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the shrimp, tossing to coat them evenly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve:
- Serve the Sesame Cilantro Shrimp hot, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
- Enjoy the shrimp on their own, or serve over a bed of cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy your Sesame Cilantro Shrimp, a deliciously light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for adding a touch of freshness and zest to your dinner table!
