This tequila lime shrimp is a zesty treat packed with flavor! With fresh shrimp coated in tangy lime juice and a splash of tequila, it’s perfect for a quick meal or as a fun appetizer.
Cooking it is a breeze, and it smells amazing! I love serving it with rice or tortillas. You might find yourself humming a little mariachi tune while you cook! 🎶
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work just as well! Just remember to thaw them before cooking. I love using shrimp that are wild-caught for better flavor and texture.
Tequila: A white tequila is best for a light flavor, but feel free to skip it if you prefer non-alcoholic. A splash of chicken broth or lime juice can add a similar flavor profile without the alcohol.
Olive Oil: This adds great richness. You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil, but olive oil gives a lovely taste and complements the lime nicely.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor, but if it’s not available, regular paprika or even chili powder can work in a pinch. Don’t forget to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness to the dish! If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a good substitute, but the flavor will be a bit different.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp is quick, but getting it just right can be tricky. Overcooked shrimp can be tough, so here are some tips:
- Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for about 2 minutes on each side. Look for that beautiful pink color!
- The shrimp should curl into a “C” shape when done. If they curl into an “O,” they might be overcooked.
- Let them marinate for just 15-20 minutes for flavor. If left too long, the acid from the lime juice can start to cook the shrimp.
With these tips, your tequila lime shrimp will be a hit at the dinner table! Happy cooking!
Tequila Lime Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tequila
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered (optional)
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Estimated Time Needed:
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 5-6 minutes of cooking time. Including marinating, you can expect the total time to be around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and zesty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, tequila, lime juice, lime zest, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a nice, smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss the shrimp until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl or transfer the shrimp to a resealable bag, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This is where the flavor really develops!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp along with the marinade (reserve any extra marinade for later). Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely pink and are cooked through. Easy peasy!
4. Add the Tomatoes (Optional):
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, toss them into the skillet during the last minute of cooking. Gently stir to warm them through—this adds a lovely freshness to the dish!
5. Finish It Off:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the shrimp and give it a gentle toss to mix everything together. It’s looking delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tequila lime shrimp immediately, garnished with fresh lime wedges on the side. This dish is fantastic over rice, in tacos, or just on its own. Enjoy the bright, tangy, and slightly smoky flavors!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a kick, simply increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also serve it with sliced jalapeños for an extra spicy touch!
What Can I Substitute for Tequila?
If you prefer to omit tequila, you can replace it with a splash of chicken broth or lime juice. Both options will still provide a fresh, zesty flavor without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat until just heated through—be careful not to overcook!
