Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with these incredible Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers! This recipe combines the bold, zesty flavors of a classic margarita cocktail with succulent grilled shrimp, creating a dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or any time you want to add a little fiesta to your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are the perfect marriage of fresh, vibrant flavors and simple preparation. The combination of citrusy lime, aromatic spices, and optional tequila creates a marinade that infuses every bite with restaurant-quality taste. The high heat of the grill gives the shrimp a beautiful char while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a casual weekend cookout or planning an elegant dinner party, these skewers deliver impressive results with minimal effort. The marinade can be prepared hours ahead, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy entertaining schedules.
The smoky paprika and warm spices complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the fresh lime and cilantro add brightness that cuts through the richness. Each skewer is a perfect balance of flavors that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound raw extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 per pound), peeled and deveined
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 large garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced jalapeño
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons tequila (optional)
- Thin slices of fresh lime (if placing shrimp on skewers)
For Garnish:
- Chopped cilantro
- Wedges of fresh lime for squeezing over grilled shrimp
How to Make Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, roughly chopped garlic, minced jalapeño, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. If using tequila, add it to the mixture. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined and the brown sugar is dissolved.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor penetration. Avoid marinating longer than 2 hours, as the acid can begin to “cook” the shrimp.
Step 3: Prepare the Grill and Skewers Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, alternating with thin lime slices if desired. Leave small spaces between each shrimp to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with beautiful grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
Step 5: Finish and Serve Remove the skewers from the grill and immediately garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their shrimp. The combination of the smoky grilled flavors with the bright, fresh lime juice is absolutely divine.
Helpful Tips
Shrimp Selection: Choose extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 per pound) for the best results. Larger shrimp are easier to grill without overcooking and provide a more impressive presentation on skewers.
Marinade Balance: The brown sugar in the marinade helps create beautiful caramelization on the grill while balancing the heat from the spices. Don’t skip this ingredient!
Grill Preparation: Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the shrimp from sticking. A grill basket can be used as an alternative to skewers if preferred.
Timing is Key: Shrimp cook very quickly, so stay close to the grill. Overcooked shrimp become tough and chewy, so remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Make-Ahead Option: The marinade can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The shrimp can be marinated and threaded onto skewers up to 4 hours before grilling.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 2 hours marinating time) Cook Time: 6-8 minutes Total Time: 21-23 minutes (not including marinating time) Servings: 4-6 people Difficulty Level: Easy Equipment Needed: Grill, mixing bowl, skewers (metal or wooden)
Notes
The optional tequila in this recipe adds an authentic margarita flavor, but the skewers are equally delicious without it for those who prefer to omit alcohol. If you don’t have access to a grill, these shrimp can be cooked in a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with excellent results.
For those who enjoy extra heat, increase the jalapeño to 1½ teaspoons or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. The spice level can easily be adjusted to suit your family’s preferences.
When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with black spots, a strong fishy odor, or slimy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating. Frozen shrimp often contain more water, which can dilute the marinade flavors.
Q: How long should I marinate the shrimp? A: Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours maximum. Longer marinating times can make the shrimp mushy due to the acid in the lime and other ingredients.
Q: Can I make these without a grill? A: Absolutely! Use a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or even broil them in the oven. Cook for the same amount of time, watching carefully to avoid overcooking.
Q: What sides pair well with Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers? A: These pair beautifully with cilantro lime rice, grilled vegetables, Mexican street corn, or a fresh avocado salad.
Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time? A: The shrimp can be marinated and skewered up to 4 hours before grilling. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator Storage: Leftover grilled shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Remove from skewers before storing to save space.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, or enjoy cold in salads, tacos, or grain bowls. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Freezing: While not recommended due to texture changes, cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Marinade Storage: Unused marinade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Never reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw shrimp.
Conclusion
These Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers bring the spirit of summer and the flavors of Mexico right to your backyard. With their perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and citrusy notes, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your grilling repertoire. The simple preparation and impressive presentation make them ideal for everything from casual family dinners to elegant entertaining.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to transport you to a beachside cantina with just one bite. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, the char from the grill, and the brightness of fresh lime creates a symphony of flavors that celebrates the best of outdoor cooking.
Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned barbecue master, these Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are sure to impress your family and friends. Fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to create some delicious memories with this fantastic recipe that captures the essence of summer in every succulent bite.