Cuban Mojo Shrimp is a zesty dish that brings the flavors of citrus and garlic together! Juicy shrimp soak up a delicious marinade made with lime, orange, and spices.
This dish is perfect for a quick and tasty meal. I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad—just makes everything brighter and yummier! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are key for this dish. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works just as well! Just make sure to thaw them before marinating. You can also use chicken or firm fish if you’re looking for alternatives.
Fresh Citrus Juices: The combination of orange and lime juices adds brightness. If you’re out of fresh juice, bottled juice works too, but fresh really does make a difference in flavor. You can mix lemons if needed, but the taste will vary slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, try using garlic powder, but remember—1 clove of garlic equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still add garlicy goodness!
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste, but you can replace it with avocado oil for a different flavor or vegetable oil if you prefer something lighter.
How Do I Marinate Shrimp for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating shrimp is essential to infuse it with flavor. Here’s how I recommend doing it:
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Whisk them until well combined.
- Place the shrimp in the marinade and toss to coat. Cover it well with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the shrimp to soak in all those delicious flavors.
Be careful not to marinate too long (more than 1 hour), as the acidity from the citrus can change the shrimp’s texture!
Cuban Mojo Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime slices
- Optional: 1 small tomato, sliced or diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Cuban Mojo Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 10-12 minutes to cook. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the shrimp for at least 20-30 minutes. In total, plan for about 40-50 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together well until fully mixed. This tasty mojo marinade will infuse your shrimp with incredible flavor!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure every shrimp is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 20 to 30 minutes—this allows the flavors to soak in.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
When your shrimp are ready, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. If you’re using tomatoes, add them to the skillet halfway through cooking, so they can soften a little.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Once the shrimp are cooked, sprinkle the chopped cilantro or parsley over them for a fresh finish. Garnish with lime slices for an extra burst of flavor. Serve your delicious Cuban Mojo Shrimp right away over a bed of quinoa, rice, or your favorite grain.
Enjoy this vibrant and tangy dish perfect for any occasion! 🦐🍊
Can I Use Different Proteins Instead of Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with chicken breast or firm fish like swordfish or mahi-mahi. If using chicken, make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Fish should be cooked until just opaque in the center.
Can I Make the Mojo Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! The mojo marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Just add the shrimp when you’re ready to cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, lightly sauté the shrimp in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through, being careful not to overcook them.
What Can I Serve with Cuban Mojo Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad. For a hearty meal, consider adding roasted vegetables on the side or even some warm tortillas to make tacos!
