Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are juicy, zesty, and bursting with bright citrus and tequila flavor. Marinated in a margarita-inspired blend and grilled to perfection, these shrimp are ideal for summer cookouts, taco nights, or as a fresh and flavorful appetizer.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
large shrimp (peeled and deveined)lime juiceorange juicezest of lime and orangeolive oiltequila (optional)garlic (minced)honey or agavesaltpepperchili flakes or jalapeño (optional)fresh cilantro (for garnish)lime wedges (for serving)wooden or metal skewers
directions
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, zest, tequila (if using), olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
Add shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Thread shrimp onto skewers and discard marinade.
Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and lightly charred.
Serve immediately with cilantro and lime wedges.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutesGrilling time: 6 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes
Variations
Add pineapple chunks or bell peppers to the skewers.
Use the marinade as a sauce—boil it first to make it safe.
Swap tequila with extra citrus juice for an alcohol-free version.
Serve over rice, salad, or in tacos.
storage/reheating
Best served fresh. Store leftover shrimp in the fridge for up to 2 days.Reheat gently in a skillet or enjoy cold over salad.Not recommended for freezing once cooked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely before marinating.
Is tequila necessary?
No, it adds flavor but can be omitted or replaced.
How long should I marinate shrimp?
No more than 30 minutes—longer can cause the shrimp to become mushy.
Can I bake these instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
What sides go well with it?
Try cilantro-lime rice, grilled corn, or a fresh mango salsa.
Conclusion
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a light, flavorful dish that captures the spirit of summer with every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or a festive appetizer, these zesty skewers are sure to impress.
Print
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are zesty, smoky, and refreshing seafood skewers marinated in a lime, tequila, and cilantro mixture—perfect for summer grilling and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp tequila
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, tequila, olive oil, cilantro, honey, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and slightly charred.
- Serve hot with lime wedges and extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Do not over-marinate shrimp; the acid can start to cook them.
- These skewers are great served with rice, grilled veggies, or over salad.
- You can substitute tequila with orange juice for an alcohol-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx. 1/4 lb shrimp)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
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