Margarita Grilled Shrimp
Grilling season is in full swing at our house, and nothing gets my family more excited than the smoky sizzle of shrimp fresh off the grill. I whipped up this Margarita Grilled Shrimp on a whim one weekend after finding some plump shrimp on sale and realizing I had limes and tequila just waiting to be used. I didn’t expect it to become such a fast favorite, but wow—this dish is bursting with flavor! It’s zesty, a little spicy, and has that bright citrusy kick that makes every bite irresistible. Even my kids, who can be a bit picky with seafood, asked for seconds (and thirds!).
What I love most is how versatile this recipe is. It works great for dinner with rice and grilled veggies, or as a party appetizer on skewers with a cold drink in hand. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but takes barely any time to pull together—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues. I’ve made it both with and without skewers depending on how much time I have, and it always turns out delicious.
Every time I serve this, someone asks for the recipe—and I can’t blame them! There’s something about the combination of garlic, lime, cilantro, and just a splash of tequila that makes these shrimp unforgettable. It’s become a regular request in our home, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I make this recipe without tequila?
Absolutely. Just substitute with orange juice or more lime juice to keep the citrus flavor balanced.
Do I need to use skewers?
Nope! Skewers are great for grilling, but you can also cook the shrimp directly on a grill pan or use foil.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
At least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours. Shrimp marinate quickly and can get mushy if left too long.
What sides go well with this?
We love serving it with cilantro-lime rice, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad.
What You Need to Make Margarita Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp tequila (optional, or sub orange juice)
Zest and juice of 2 limes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp honey
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving
Optional for skewers:
Metal or soaked wooden skewers
Sliced limes or peppers for garnish
Tools:
Mixing bowl
Grill or grill pan
Tongs
Basting brush (optional)
How to Make Margarita Grilled Shrimp
Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, tequila (or juice), lime zest and juice, garlic, honey, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes.
Skewer the Shrimp (Optional): Thread shrimp onto skewers, optionally alternating with lime slices or bell pepper chunks.
Grill: Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until opaque and slightly charred. Don’t overcook—they cook fast!
Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with fresh lime wedges.
Tips for Making the Best Margarita Grilled Shrimp
Don’t Over-Marinate: Shrimp are delicate. Too long in an acidic marinade can make them rubbery.
Preheat the Grill Well: You want those gorgeous grill marks!
Use Large Shrimp: They’re easier to handle and won’t overcook as quickly.
Add Spice: A pinch of cayenne or a sliced jalapeño in the marinade gives it a spicy twist.
Make it a Meal: Serve with rice, tortillas, or in tacos with slaw for a full dinner.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These shrimp were a huge hit at our BBQ! So flavorful and juicy. Will definitely make again!” – Jessica R.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavors, but I think next time I’ll double the chili powder for more kick. Still a great recipe.” – Mark D.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was super easy to prep. I didn’t have tequila, so I used orange juice and it still turned out amazing!” – Emily S.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tasted great but I overcooked them a bit. Make sure to keep an eye on the grill!” – Tanya L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect summer dinner. My kids devoured them, and that says a lot!” – Amanda K.
Printable Recipe
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Margarita Grilled Shrimp
These Margarita Grilled Shrimp are juicy, smoky, and bursting with zesty lime flavor! Marinated in a citrusy tequila-lime blend with hints of garlic, honey, and spice, they grill up beautifully in just minutes. Whether served on skewers as a party appetizer or plated with rice for dinner, this easy shrimp recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. No skewers? No problem—this flexible dish is perfect for busy weeknights or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tequila (optional, or sub orange juice)
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional for skewers:
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
- Sliced limes or peppers for garnish
- Tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Basting brush (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, tequila (or juice), lime zest and juice, garlic, honey, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes.
- Skewer the Shrimp (Optional): Thread shrimp onto skewers, optionally alternating with lime slices or bell pepper chunks.
- Grill: Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until opaque and slightly charred. Don’t overcook—they cook fast!
- Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with fresh lime wedges.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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