Description
This Margarita Grilled Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of lime and orange juice, tequila, honey, and spices, then grilled to perfection. It’s a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick summer dinner or entertaining guests, showcasing bold citrus and smoky flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup tequila
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, tequila, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the shrimp to absorb the vibrant flavors.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, place it over medium-high heat on the stovetop to get it hot, ensuring the shrimp will cook quickly and develop a nice char.
- Grill the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, turning once, until they are opaque, firm to the touch, and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over, enhancing the bright, citrusy flavor.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Do not overcook shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery quickly.
- Marinating for a longer time (up to 1 hour) intensifies the flavors but avoid exceeding this to prevent the acid from breaking down the shrimp texture.
- Serve the shrimp immediately after grilling for best taste and texture.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
