Cilantro Garlic Aioli Shrimp

Name: Cilantro Garlic Aioli Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love making Cilantro Garlic Aioli Shrimp for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of fresh cilantro and garlic in the aioli completely elevates the shrimp, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor. It only takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for a quick meal, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The creaminess of the aioli pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp, making every bite a delightful experience.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:38:28.466Z

When I first tried making aioli from scratch, I was shocked at how simple and flavorful it turned out. Using fresh ingredients like garlic and cilantro, I found that blending them with mayonnaise created a creamy yet zesty sauce that perfectly complements sautéed shrimp. The shrimp becomes infused with the bright flavors of the aioli, turning an ordinary dish into something special.

I recommend letting the aioli sit for a few minutes before serving to let the garlic and cilantro flavors meld beautifully. This allows the shrimp to absorb the aioli's taste even more, resulting in a truly delicious meal. Trust me, this recipe is sure to impress anyone you serve it to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and zesty cilantro flavor that enhances every bite
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Creamy aioli brings an indulgent, restaurant-quality touch

      

The Secret to Perfect Aioli

The key to making an outstanding cilantro garlic aioli lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Using freshly chopped cilantro and minced garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color to the dish. When preparing the aioli, ensure that the mayonnaise is at room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve a creamier consistency. Additionally, for a more pronounced garlic flavor, allow the aioli to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Balancing the acidity is also crucial in aioli-making. The lemon juice not only brightens the flavor but also complements the richness of the mayonnaise. If you’re looking for an alternative, lime juice can provide a slightly different, but equally delicious, zesty kick. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning; a pinch more salt or pepper can truly elevate the aioli to perfection.

Cooking the Shrimp to Perfection

When cooking shrimp, timing is everything. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat; the shrimp should turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so it's important to keep an eye on them. Using a non-stick skillet helps to prevent sticking, ensuring that the shrimp cook evenly and are easy to toss with the aioli later. If you’re unsure, cut one in half to check; perfectly cooked shrimp should be firm yet tender inside.

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for about 15-30 minutes prior to cooking. A simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lime juice will create layers of flavor that pair brilliantly with the aioli. This step isn't necessary, but it can elevate the overall taste and impress your guests with an unexpected twist.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a scrumptious Cilantro Garlic Aioli Shrimp dish:

For the Cilantro Garlic Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cilantro Garlic Aioli Shrimp:

Prepare the Aioli

In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from heat and toss with the cilantro garlic aioli. Serve immediately with extra aioli on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños to the aioli mixture.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover aioli, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keep in mind the flavors may intensify as it sits, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you notice separation, simply stir it before serving. The shrimp are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but should you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated and reheated briefly in the skillet over low heat until just warmed through, approximately 2-3 minutes.

For meal prepping, you can cook the shrimp ahead of time and store them separately from the aioli. This will maintain the freshness of both components. Just remember, when reheating, be cautious not to overcook them again, as shrimp lack moisture, making them prone to drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Cilantro garlic aioli shrimp can be served in numerous ways. For a casual gathering, consider serving it on skewers as an appetizer. Simply thread the shrimp onto skewers before cooking; they are easy to handle and visually appealing. Pair with some crunchy bread or tortilla chips to scoop up the aioli for a fun, interactive dish that guests can enjoy at their leisure.

For a more formal presentation, serve the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a bit of the aioli. This adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich aioli and complements the shrimp beautifully. You can also garnish with additional cilantro leaves or lemon wedges for a decorative touch that enhances the dish’s appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and dried before cooking for the best results.

→ How long can I store the aioli?

The aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I use another herb in place of cilantro?

Absolutely! Parsley or basil can also work well, depending on your taste preferences.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.