Cuban Mojo Shrimp is a bright and zesty dish full of flavor! It’s made with fresh shrimp marinated in a tangy mix of garlic, citrus juice, and herbs. Yummy!
Imagine the delightful smell of garlic sizzling away! It’s one of my go-to recipes when I want to impress friends with something simple yet special. Serve it with rice or salad for a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined for an easy bite. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works just as well. Make sure to thaw them before cooking. I prefer tail-on shrimp for a nice presentation, but you can remove tails if you like!
Citrus Juices: Fresh lime and orange juice are essential for that zesty flavor. If oranges are out of season, you could use bottled orange juice or substitute with grapefruit juice for a twist. Lemon juice can work too if you want a sharper taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but it won’t be as vibrant. 4 cloves might seem a lot, but I promise it’s worth it! Adjust based on your taste preference.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a fresh herbal note. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, or simply leave it out. Some people even prefer a sprinkle of green onions for a different flavor!
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking Them?
Cooking shrimp requires just the right timing to ensure they’re juicy and tender. Here are my favorite tips:
- Start with a hot skillet! Preheat it well before adding the shrimp.
- Cook in a single layer if possible; this helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Look for that pink color—it’s your cue! Shrimp usually take about 2-3 minutes on each side. If they curl up tightly, they are overcooked!
- Remove them from the heat immediately after cooking; they’ll keep cooking a bit from residual heat.
Follow these steps and you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cuban Mojo Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes to cook, plus a marinating time of 30 minutes to 1 hour. Altogether, you’ll spend about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This is where the magic of flavor begins!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the marinade. Toss them well to make sure each shrimp is nicely coated in the flavorful mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 1 hour for more intense flavor.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp along with the marinade. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking—shrimp cook quickly!
4. Add Fresh Herbs and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the shrimp for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of fresh citrus.
This dish pairs beautifully with white rice, sweet plantains, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Cuban Mojo Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it for the shrimp. This can enhance the flavors even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. You can also add a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor!
What Should I Serve with Cuban Mojo Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with white rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with fried plantains or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
