Are you looking for ways to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further! Lime is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of dishes, from savory curries and seafood skewers to sweet treats like pie and popsicles. In this article, we’ll explore 18 zesty lime recipes that are sure to refresh your palate.
From classic flavors like key lime pie and margaritas, to international twists like coconut curry and cilantro rice, these recipes showcase the best of what lime has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these ideas will inspire you to get creative with this versatile citrus fruit.
Lime and Coconut Chicken Curry
Experience the tropical flavors of India with this creamy and zesty curry recipe. Succulent chicken pieces are cooked in a rich coconut milk base, infused with the brightness of lime juice and the warmth of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and lime juice; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and black pepper, then garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lime Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQs with these flavorful and easy-to-make Grilled Lime Shrimp Skewers. Marinated in a zesty lime mixture, these succulent shrimp are perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and ginger.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Avocado Lime Crema Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and refreshing Avocado Lime Crema Dressing! This recipe combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of lime juice, making it perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend with lime juice in a food processor until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add the avocado mixture to the yogurt mixture and blend until creamy and well mixed.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (hands-on) | 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This beloved dessert is a refreshing twist on traditional pie, featuring a tangy key lime filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and lime zest for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into egg yolk mixture until combined.
6. Pour filling into cooled crust and bake for 15 minutes or until set.
7. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 23-25 minutes
Spicy Lime and Cilantro Rice
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this vibrant and aromatic rice dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a side for your favorite Latin-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (depending on desired heat level)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
2. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt to taste.
3. Add sriracha sauce and stir until well combined.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lime Garlic Butter Salmon
This flavorful salmon dish combines the brightness of lime juice with the richness of garlic butter, resulting in a tender and aromatic seafood masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, lime juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Lime Margarita
Experience the bright, citrusy flavors of Mexico with this classic cocktail recipe featuring fresh lime juice and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila (silver or reposado work well)
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge or wheel.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Lime and Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and tangy glazed carrot recipe, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Place the glazed carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dot the top of the carrots with butter.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lime Infused Quinoa Salad
This refreshing quinoa salad is infused with the bright and zesty flavor of lime, making it perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (assuming cooked quinoa is used)
Tips: Adjust the amount of lime juice to your liking. This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Chili Lime Roasted Chickpeas
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and crunchy recipe that combines the sweetness of lime with the spiciness of chili flakes. Perfect as a quick pick-me-up or a healthy addition to your favorite movie night.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp lime zest
– Salt, to taste
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and lime zest.
3. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chickpeas out in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt and lime juice.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lime Basil Mojito Mocktail
Refresh your summer with this zesty and refreshing mocktail, perfect for hot days or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 cups club soda
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar)
• 10-12 fresh basil leaves
• Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lime juice, simple syrup, and crushed ice.
2. Muddle the basil leaves in the mixture using a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Add club soda and stir gently.
5. Chill the mocktail in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick, easy, and ready to serve in no time.
Tips:
• Adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste, depending on how sweet you like your drinks.
• Use a flavored simple syrup, like lime or mint, for an added layer of flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Lime Basil Mojito Mocktail!
Lime and Ginger Marinated Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a refreshing and aromatic marinade featuring the zesty flavors of lime and ginger. This simple recipe yields tender, flavorful chops perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Place pork chops in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chops, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook pork chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Creamy Lime Popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing creamy lime popsicles! Made with just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this sweet and tangy treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– Ice pop molds (6-8 cups)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and lime juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the mixture from the heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Cooking Time: None! These popsicles are chilled in the refrigerator.
Lime and Jalapeño Cornbread
Brighten up your meal with a burst of citrusy flavor! This recipe combines the warmth of jalapeños with the zesty zing of lime juice, all wrapped up in a tender cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, lime juice, and chopped jalapeño.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lime Cilantro Coleslaw
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your BBQs and picnics with this refreshing Lime Cilantro Coleslaw recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy salad that’s ready in no time.
Lime and Mint Cucumber Water
Stay cool this summer with a refreshing glass of Lime and Mint Cucumber Water. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of cucumber, the zing of lime juice, and the cooling essence of mint for a perfect pick-me-up drink.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced cucumber and fresh mint leaves.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the cucumber and mint mixture.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer your drink chilled.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Lime Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, tangy lime juice, and aromatic garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lime juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and shrimp mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lime and Coconut Chia Pudding
This refreshing dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut with the zesty brightness of lime, all wrapped up in a nutritious chia seed pudding. Perfect for warm weather or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh lime zest and shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and unsweetened coconut milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Add freshly squeezed lime juice, honey or maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
4. Top with fresh lime zest and shredded coconut (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-24 hours (depending on chilling time)
Summary
Add some zesty fun to your meals with these refreshing lime recipes! From savory dishes like Lime and Coconut Chicken Curry and Grilled Lime Shrimp Skewers, to sweet treats like Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust, there’s something for everyone. Plus, get creative with condiments like Avocado Lime Crema Dressing and Lime Garlic Butter Salmon. Don’t forget the drinks – try a Fresh Lime Margarita or a Lime Basil Mojito Mocktail! Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, sweet, or tangy, these 18 zesty lime recipes have got you covered.
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