Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp: A Flavorful Recipe for Your Next BBQ

Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp is a dish that never fails to impress at summer barbecues and family gatherings. The vibrant flavors of zesty lime and smooth tequila create a marinade that infuses the shrimp with a delightful taste that dances on your palate. This recipe has roots in Mexican cuisine, where the combination of citrus and spirits is often celebrated for its refreshing qualities. I love how this dish not only brings a burst of flavor but also offers a wonderful texture, with the shrimp becoming tender and juicy when grilled to perfection.

People adore Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp for its simplicity and convenience; it comes together in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. The balance of tangy and savory notes makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to zesty rice. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup tequila
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, I start by combining the tequila and fresh lime juice. The acidity from the lime juice will help to tenderize the shrimp while infusing them with flavor. 2. Next, I add the olive oil to the bowl. This will help to keep the shrimp moist during grilling and add a nice richness to the marinade. 3. I then add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if I want a little kick). I whisk everything together until well combined. The aroma of the spices and lime is simply irresistible!

Marinating the Shrimp

4. Now, I place the peeled and deveined shrimp into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. I pour the marinade over the shrimp, making sure they are all well coated. 5. I seal the bag (or cover the dish) and place it in the refrigerator. I let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if I have time, I prefer to let them soak for up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the shrimp.

Preparing the Grill

6. While the shrimp are marinating, I prepare my grill. If I’m using a charcoal grill, I light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with white ash. For a gas grill, I preheat it to medium-high heat. 7. I make sure to clean the grill grates with a grill brush to prevent sticking. If I’m feeling extra cautious, I’ll wipe the grates with a paper towel dipped in oil using tongs.

Skewering the Shrimp

8. After the shrimp have marinated, I take them out of the refrigerator. I remove them from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. I can discard the leftover marinade since it has been in contact with raw shrimp. 9. I thread the shrimp onto skewers. If I’m using wooden skewers, I make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill. I usually thread 4-5 shrimp per skewer, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking.

Grilling the Shrimp

10. Once the grill is hot, I place the skewers on the grill grates. I grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and opaque. 11. I carefully flip the skewers using tongs and grill for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. The shrimp cook quickly, so I keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. They’re done when they are fully opaque and have nice grill marks. 12. Once cooked, I remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. I like to squeeze a little extra lime juice over the top for an added burst of flavor.

Serving the Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp

13. To serve, I garnish the shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro. The bright green color adds a lovely touch and enhances the flavor. 14. I also like to serve the shrimp with lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to add a little more lime juice if they desire. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp

15. If you want to add a little more depth to the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the marinade. It complements the tequila and lime beautifully. 16. For a smoky flavor, I sometimes add a few wood chips to the grill. Soaking them in water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the coals can create a delicious smoky aroma. 17. If you’re looking for a different presentation, I sometimes serve the shrimp in taco

Conclusion:

In summary, this Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game and impress their friends and family. The combination of zesty lime and smooth tequila creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and tantalizing, making it perfect for summer barbecues, beach parties, or even a cozy dinner at home. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these succulent shrimp with a side of cilantro-lime rice or a fresh avocado salad to complement the vibrant flavors. You can also get creative with variations—try adding a dash of chili powder for some heat, or marinating the shrimp with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. I encourage you to give this Tequila Lime Grilled Shrimp recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your dish. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!

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