The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the backyard as laughter fills the air. There’s something undeniably inviting about the sizzle of shrimp skewers gracing the grill, their vibrant colors a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Inspired by the zestful flavors of a classic margarita, these Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers promise to transport your taste buds straight to a tropical paradise.
With perfectly marinated shrimp kissed by smoky spices and bright lime, this dish is not just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting friends for a summer cookout or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver mouthwatering flavor without the fuss. Plus, they’re easily customizable with or without a splash of tequila to enhance that signature margarita taste. Get ready to impress everyone around the table as we dive into this delicious recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
Why Make Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Simplicity made easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a great choice for busy nights and entertaining guests.
Zesty flavor explosion: Each bite features a delightful blend of spices, garlic, and citrus that transports you to a beachside retreat.
Customization at its finest: Whether you prefer your skewers with or without tequila, this recipe adapts to suit your taste!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for summer gatherings, these skewers will impress friends and family alike, bringing them together around delicious food.
For additional hosting tips, check out our guide on creating the perfect summer barbecue experience!
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers Ingredients
• Elevate your grilling game with these delightful components!
For the Skewers
- Extra Jumbo Shrimp – Use 16-20 per pound, peeled and deveined for a tender protein base.
- Olive Oil – Helps enhance moisture and marinate flavors for juicy shrimp.
- Garlic – Fresh, roughly chopped garlic cloves add aromatic depth to the marinade.
- Minced Jalapeño – Adjust to your spice preference; it gives a nice kick to the dish.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the zesty flavors beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cumin – This spice mix creates complex flavors, and feel free to substitute with your favorites!
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste preferences.
Optional Ingredients
- Tequila – Whether you choose to include it or not, this ingredient elevates the margarita flavor profile!
- Fresh Lime Slices – Include on your skewers for extra citrus aroma while grilling—essential for flavor infusion.
- Chopped Cilantro – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch as a garnish—don’t skip it!
- Lime Wedges – Serve alongside the skewers for a squeeze of brightness that enhances every bite.
How to Make Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
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Soak skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents burning on the grill and ensures your shrimp cook perfectly.
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Prepare marinade: In a spacious bowl, combine the extra jumbo shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, jalapeño, brown sugar, and the spice mix. Gently stir until each shrimp is coated, then cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
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Assemble skewers: Once marinated, thread the shrimp onto the skewers, alternating with fresh lime slices to infuse a zesty aroma as they grill.
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Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking—around 400°F is ideal for grilling shrimp.
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Grill shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for the shrimp to turn opaque and slightly charred—this ensures juicy, flavorful results!
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Serve and garnish: Transfer the grilled skewers to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and offer lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Optional: Serve with margaritas for the perfect pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
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Fridge: Store leftover Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
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Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a short burst or on the stovetop over low heat until just heated through, preserving that juicy texture.
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Freshness Tip: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice after reheating to revive the flavors and enhance the Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers experience.
Tips for the Best Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
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Marination Matters: Ensure to marinate the shrimp for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate—avoid adding citrus to the marinade for ideal texture.
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Perfectly Grilled Shrimp: Grill until the shrimp turn opaque and firm. Be cautious; shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.
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Use Flat Skewers: Opt for flat-shaped skewers to prevent the shrimp from twisting while cooking; this helps them grill evenly.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the spice mix based on your preference. Experiment with different chili powders to get your desired heat!
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Presentation Tip: For an inviting platter, arrange the skewers artfully and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro—this adds a burst of color and flavor.
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Serve with Fresh Lime: Don’t skip the lime wedges; they enhance the Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers with zesty brightness and freshness that complements every bite!
What to Serve with Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Elevate your gathering with the perfect side dishes that create a delightful dining experience.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The bright and zesty flavors of this rice dish complement the shrimp’s smoky notes, making each bite refreshing. It’s a delightful base that soaks up any sauces beautifully.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Tossed in butter and lime, this sweet and charred side brings a touch of summer to your meal. The crunchiness pairs well with the succulent shrimp skewers.
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Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and cool, this avocado dip offers a dreamy contrast to the spicy zing of the shrimp. Perfect for scooping with tortilla chips or as a side.
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Margaritas: A refreshing, ice-cold margarita is the ultimate pairing to these flavorful shrimp. The tangy notes amplify the dish, making for a truly festive experience.
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Mixed Green Salad: Light and crisp, a salad tossed with lime vinaigrette adds fresh textures and balances the richness of the shrimp. Add some mango for a tropical flair!
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Summertime Fruit Salad: Bright and juicy, a medley of seasonal fruits like watermelon, kiwi, and berries provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory shrimp. It’s like sunshine on a plate!
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful array of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus offers a sweet, smoky flavor alongside your skewers. They’re easy to prepare and add nutrition to your meal.
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Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips dipped in vibrant salsa create a fun, shareable appetizer that your guests will love while waiting for the main event.
Choose any of these mouthwatering accompaniments to create an unforgettable summer feast around your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers!
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers Variations
Customize your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers to make them uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
- Tequila-Free: Omit tequila from the marinade for a refreshing non-alcoholic version that still bursts with flavor.
- Herb Twist: Swap in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a different aromatic flair that brightens the dish.
- Spicy Option: Increase the minced jalapeño or add a splash of hot sauce for those who love an extra kick.
- Vegan Delight: Replace shrimp with marinated tofu or zucchini for a plant-based alternative that’s equally delicious.
- Citrus Infusion: Add zesty lime or orange zest to the marinade for a vibrant citrus note that elevates every bite.
- Tropical Flavor: Incorporate diced pineapple or mango onto skewers for a fruity sweetness that works beautifully with the shrimp.
- Smoky Variations: Try adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the marinade to enhance the smokiness of the grilled shrimp.
- Nutty Toast: Sprinkle crushed nuts like pistachios on top before serving for a unique crunchy texture contrast.
Make Ahead Options
These Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the shrimp in advance, up to 24 hours, for enhanced flavor. Simply combine the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, brown sugar, and spices, then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to grill, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers with lime slices. Preheat the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until opaque and charred. This preparation method ensures your skewers are just as delicious as if they were made fresh, letting you enjoy stress-free grilling any night!
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for grilling?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for extra jumbo shrimp that are firm and have a fresh, ocean-like scent. The shrimp should be translucent and without dark spots or unpleasant odors. Ideally, go for shrimp labeled as “16-20 per pound,” which ensures they’re large enough to hold up on the grill.
How long can I store leftover Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Very good question! You can store leftover Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before sealing. Just remember, the faster you eat them, the better their flavor!
Can I freeze Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a short burst or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lime juice over them after reheating to rejuvenate the flavors!
What should I do if my shrimp come out rubbery?
Don’t fret; this happens to the best of us! If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it usually means they were overcooked. To prevent this, aim to grill until the shrimp are no longer translucent, just until they turn opaque and slightly charred—this should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remember, shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. For gluten-free options, ensure your spices are certified gluten-free, and if someone has a shellfish allergy, consider substituting with grilled vegetables or chicken marinated in a similar style. For those avoiding alcohol, simply omit the tequila without sacrificing flavor—trust me, it still tastes delightful!
Can I use different spices in the marinade?
Absolutely! One of the best parts of the Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers recipe is its versatility. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. If you like things a bit zestier, add some lime zest to the marinade or try different chili powders to explore varying heat levels. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!
Savor Summer with Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, brown sugar, and spices. Stir to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, alternating with lime slices.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) and oil the grates.
- Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side until shrimp is opaque and slightly charred.
- Serve the skewers with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.