Lime Cumin Marinade for Chicken or Shrimp Recipe
Overview:
This Lime Cumin Marinade is a zesty blend perfect for chicken or shrimp, combining the tangy freshness of lime with the warm earthiness of cumin. It’s a quick-fix marinade that infuses your protein with vibrant flavors, ideal for those craving a taste of Mexican cuisine in under 15 minutes!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Recipe Category: Mexican
- Keywords: Low Protein, < 15 Mins
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful marinade:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lime juice | 1/2 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup |
| Ground cumin | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/8 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 84.3
- Total Fat: 9.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 73.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 1.4g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugars: 0.3g
- Protein: 0.1g
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create your Lime Cumin Marinade and prepare your chicken or shrimp for a flavor-packed grill session:
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Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, ground pepper, chopped cilantro, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
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Marinate Protein:
- For Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and gently massage to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated. Marinate for no longer than 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- For Chicken: Similarly, place the chicken in a ziplock bag, pour in the marinade, and seal the bag. Massage the bag to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Avoid marinating longer to prevent the lime from overly tenderizing the meat.
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Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken or shrimp from the marinade, discarding any excess marinade. Grill the chicken until fully cooked through, or the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, typically about 2-3 minutes per side for shrimp and 6-8 minutes per side for chicken depending on thickness.
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Serve: Once cooked, serve your Lime Cumin-marinated chicken or shrimp hot off the grill. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired, and enjoy the burst of citrusy, savory flavors!
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the best flavor.
- Marinating Time: Stick to the recommended marinating times to achieve tender, flavorful results without over-marinating.
- Grilling: Ensure your grill is well-heated before cooking to achieve those beautiful grill marks and juicy texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This Lime Cumin Marinade pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Serve over a bed of cilantro lime rice for a complete meal.
- Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra color and flavor.
- Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re grilling up chicken breasts or succulent shrimp, this Lime Cumin Marinade is sure to elevate your dish with its bold, Mexican-inspired flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual backyard barbecue, it’s a recipe that promises maximum flavor in minimal time. Try it today and savor the vibrant blend of lime, cumin, and cilantro that will transport your taste buds south of the border!
