Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the zesty, citrusy flavors of a margarita with tender, juicy shrimp. Perfect for grilling season or as an appetizer at your next party, these skewers are marinated in a tangy lime and tequila mixture, offering a fresh, tropical twist on classic grilled shrimp.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
lime juice (freshly squeezed)
tequila
orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
garlic (minced)
olive oil
chili powder
cumin
salt
black pepper
fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
lime wedges (for serving)

directions

In a bowl, combine lime juice, tequila, orange liqueur, garlic, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure they are arranged in a single layer.

Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque, with a slight char.

Remove the shrimp from the grill and garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Serve immediately, and enjoy the zesty, flavorful shrimp on their own or with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings (8-10 shrimp per skewer).
Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Grilling time: 4-6 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour (including marinating)

Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the marinade.
Use a different protein like scallops or chicken for a variation.
Add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a sweeter citrus note.
Grill the shrimp with veggies such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a colorful skewered meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be used in salads, tacos, or pasta dishes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating.

Do I have to use tequila?
Tequila gives a distinct flavor, but you can substitute it with white wine or leave it out for a non-alcoholic version.

Can I use wooden skewers?
Yes, but be sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking them will make them tough, so keep a close eye on them.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the shrimp the night before and grill them when ready to serve.

Can I grill the shrimp on a grill pan?
Yes, a grill pan works perfectly for indoor grilling, just make sure it’s preheated.

Can I make this recipe without skewers?
Absolutely! Simply grill the shrimp directly on the grill or in a grill pan, flipping them halfway through.

Conclusion

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are the ultimate tropical dish that brings together the vibrant, zesty flavors of a margarita with the smoky goodness of grilled shrimp. With a simple marinade and quick grilling time, this recipe is a perfect choice for a light, refreshing meal or a fun, flavorful appetizer at your next gathering.