Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp Recipe

I absolutely adore this Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp recipe because it combines the perfect amount of zest and kick, making every bite feel like a mini-vacation on a plate. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, so I get to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right from my own backyard grill without any hassle!

When I prepare these Tequila Lime Shrimp on the grill, the colors and flavors of the tequila and fresh lime juice make the dish something you could serve any time of year but which feels especially perfect for summer. I think that’s because the light acidity of the limes and the vibrant citrus flavor you get from the juice really seem to balance the more kind-of robust, earthy flavors coming from the garlic, the cilantro, and the shrimp itself.

Just the simple act of heating the shrimp over high fire and letting the flame kiss it the way they do in the part of the coastline where I vacation in Mexico makes the whole thing feel like a fiesta.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: A lean source of protein, low in fat, and rich in omega-3s and vitamin B12.
• Tequila: Adds a distinctive, smooth flavor that enhances the marinade’s complexity.
• Lime Juice: Offers a zesty, tangy taste while providing vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fats with anti-inflammatory properties, adding richness to the dish.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb with vitamin K, adds a vibrant, citrusy flavor to complement lime.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup tequila
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. In a big mixing bowl, blend the tequila, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, lime zest, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to form the marinade.

2. Place the shrimp in the marinade and make sure they are well-coated. Put in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and blend together.

3. A grill or grill pan should be preheated to medium-high heat.

4. Skewering the shrimp that have been marinated. Discarding old marinade. Reusing for the basting syringe.

5. Apply a little oil to the grill grates so that food doesn’t stick.

6. Put the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

7. Take the shrimp off the grill and permit them a one-minute rest prior to serving.

8. Put the shrimp that have been grilled on a platter, and top them with even more chopped cilantro and lime cut into wedges.

9. Warm the shrimp and serve them with fresh lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the wedges over the shrimp just before eating to enhance the already-citrusy flavor.

10. Savor your Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp as an enthralling starter or splendid main course.

Equipment Needed

1. Big mixing bowl
2. Whisk or spoon for mixing
3. Refrigerator
4. Grill or grill pan
5. Skewers
6. Basting syringe (optional)
7. Oil brush or paper towel for applying oil
8. Platter for serving
9. Knife for chopping cilantro and cutting lime wedges

FAQ

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?You can indeed utilize shrimp that have been frozen. Just ensure that they are thawed completely and dried thoroughly before being marinated.
• What kind of tequila is best for this recipe?A tequila blanco or silver is a good choice, for it has a clean, agave-forward taste that pairs beautifully with the lime and shrimp.
• Can I marinate the shrimp overnight?The shrimp should ideally be marinated for a period ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour. If the shrimp is allowed to marinate for too long, the texture might be affected.
• What can I use instead of cilantro?If you are not a fan of cilantro, use fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor. They provide a delicious flavor profile with turmeric. Whenever I make chickpeas, I typically season them with turmeric.
• How do I know when the shrimp are done?When they are opaque and firm to the touch, the shrimp are done; this usually takes about 2–3 minutes per side on the grill.
• Can I cook this recipe without a grill?Certainly, if a grill is unavailable, you can use a grill pan or a standard skillet on the stovetop.
• What can I serve with Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp?Rice, tortilla wraps, or a fresh salad make a complete meal when paired with them.

Substitutions and Variations

Tequila: Replace with the same quantity of white rum or skip altogether for a non-alcoholic version.
Lime juice, freshly squeezed: Use fluid extract of lemon to achieve a different citrus flavor.
Avocado oil: Substitute with melted coconut oil or use olive oil as an alternative.
Fresh cilantro: Substitute fresh parsley for cilantro if you can’t find it or if it’s not to your liking.
Chili powder: If you want a milder flavor, substitute with paprika. If you want more heat, use cayenne pepper.

Pro Tips

1. Marinating Time: For even more flavor, marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours, but no longer, as the acid in the lime juice can start to “cook” the shrimp.