How Long Does Shrimp Cook in Lime Juice? A Complete Guide

Shrimp and lime is a classic flavor combination that just sings summer. The bright tangy lime juice enhances the sweet brininess of tender shrimp. While grilling or sautéing are popular cooking methods marinating raw shrimp in lime juice to “cook” it is also gaining traction. This technique, inspired by ceviche, yields plump, opaque shrimp with a tasty citrus infusion.

But exactly how long should you marinate shrimp in lime juice? Does it really cook the shrimp safely? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making lime-marinated shrimp at home.

An Overview of Cooking Shrimp in Lime Juice

Cooking raw shrimp by marinating it in an acidic ingredient like lime juice is sometimes referred to as “ceviche-style.” The acid in the lime juice chemically cooks the shrimp, turning the translucent flesh opaque and firm. No heat is required.

While the shrimp does not reach an internal temperature hot enough to kill bacteria, the acid essentially “denatures” or deactivates the proteins in a similar manner As long as the shrimp is fully submerged in lime juice and marinated sufficiently, it is safe to enjoy.

How Long Does Shrimp Need to Marinate in Lime Juice?

Shrimp takes 15-30 minutes to marinate and chemically “cook” in lime juice. Jumbo shrimp may take closer to 30 minutes, while smaller shrimp could be ready in 15-20 minutes.

As a general guideline:

• Small shrimp (36-45 per pound): 15-20 minutes
• Medium shrimp (26-35 per pound): 20-25 minutes
• Large/Jumbo shrimp (16-25 per pound): 25-30 minutes

The timing depends on the thickness of the shrimp Check for visual doneness cues like opaque, firm flesh rather than translucent flesh. Give the shrimp a taste test, removing them from the lime juice once they no longer have a raw, jelly-like texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked lime shrimp every time:

1. Rinse and peel raw, shell-on shrimp, leaving the tails intact if desired. Devein the shrimp by slicing along the back and removing the digestive tract.

2. Place shrimp in a non-reactive bowl (glass, plastic, or stainless steel).

3. Cover the shrimp fully with freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir to coat evenly.

4. Cover bowl and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes, until shrimp are opaque and firm.

5. Drain shrimp from lime juice, discarding marinade.

6. Rinse briefly under cool water to remove excess lime flavor if desired. Pat dry.

7. Use marinated shrimp in ceviche, tacos, salads, and more. Enjoy immediately for the best texture.

Choosing the Best Limes

For the best flavor, use fresh lime juice rather than bottled juice. Select limes that feel heavy for their size with smooth, blemish-free peels. The limes should yield to gentle pressure when squeezed. Avoid limes that appear dried out or have soft spots.

Meyer lemons can also be substituted for a milder citrus flavor. Key limes offer an authentic ceviche experience.

Extra Flavor Boosts

While lime juice on its own effectively “cooks” the shrimp, consider adding extras for enhanced flavor:

• Finely diced red onion
• Chopped cilantro or parsley
• Minced garlic or serrano chile
• Thinly sliced radishes
• Diced avocado or mango
• Salt and black pepper
• A dash of hot sauce or soy sauce

Refrigerate any prepped add-ins separately, then fold into the cooked shrimp just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Lime-marinated shrimp stays fresh for 1-2 days when stored in the fridge. Here are some easy ways to use up leftovers:

• Fold into a cabbage slaw for fish tacos
• Top a mixed green salad
• Fill an avocado half
• Mix with diced tomatoes for bruschetta
• Toss with angel hair pasta
• Make shrimp ceviche with diced veggies
• Fill a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option

However you choose to use it, lime-kissed shrimp is sure to brighten up any meal. Just be mindful of the marinating time needed to cook the shrimp safely. In about 20 minutes, you can have a batch of tasty ceviche-style shrimp ready to combine with your favorite flavors.