This Tequila Lime Shrimp is a zesty and fun dish! Juicy shrimp are marinated in a bright lime sauce with a kick of tequila, perfect for a sunny day or a taco night.
Trust me, these shrimp will dance right off your plate! I love serving them with rice or tacos while enjoying a cold drink. It’s such a tasty way to bring the beach vibes home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider scallops or firm fish. Just adjust the cooking time, as these may vary.
Tequila: Don’t have tequila on hand? You could use white wine or chicken broth to give the shrimp flavor without the alcohol. For a different twist, a splash of orange juice can also brighten the dish!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor! In a pinch, bottled lime juice works too, but fresh is always my go-to when possible.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth. You can use regular paprika if you prefer less smoke, or even a pinch of cayenne for extra heat instead of chili powder.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Just chop them up finely to keep the flavors bright!
How do I get perfectly cooked shrimp?
Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but it’s essential to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The key is knowing when they’re done.
- Start by heating the skillet to medium-high. This ensures a nice sear on your shrimp.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side. You’ll know one side is ready when it’s pink and slightly browned.
- Flip them gently and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. They should be opaque all the way through.
- Remove from heat as soon as they change color to avoid rubbery texture!
With these tips, your shrimp will turn out juicy and flavorful every time! Enjoy!
Tequila Lime Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp tequila
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 5-7 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll need about 15-20 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the tequila, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s all mixed up nicely.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss them gently to make sure they are all coated well. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature to soak up all those tasty flavors. If you have a bit more time, you can let them sit in the fridge for up to an hour.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
While the shrimp is marinating, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, remove the shrimp from the marinade (discard the marinade) and add them to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and start to brown.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re fully cooked and opaque. They should be juicy and tender.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the fresh chopped cilantro over the shrimp. Serve them hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
These Tequila Lime Shrimp are perfect served with rice, rolled in tortillas, or on a fresh salad for a bright and flavorful meal! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Tequila?
If you don’t have tequila, you can substitute it with white wine or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. For an alternative flavor, a splash of orange juice can also bring a nice zest!
How Long Can I Marinate the Shrimp?
For optimal flavor, marinate the shrimp for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. Marinating for too long can make the shrimp mushy due to the acidity of the lime juice.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Tequila Lime Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, warm tortillas, or a light salad. You can also serve it with grilled veggies or a zesty slaw to complement the flavors of the shrimp!
