I love preparing Grilled Tequila Lime Shrimp for its lively mix of flavors. Marinating jumbo shrimp in fresh lime and orange juices with garlic and smoky paprika creates a distinct profile. A splash of tequila adds an intriguing twist that brightens this dish with a harmonious blend of heat and citrus.

Jump to Recipe

I love cooking up these Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs because they really add a zing to any meal. I start off with 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, and marinate them in an awesome blend of flavors that really shout Mexican cuisine.

I use 1/4 cup fresh lime juice and 1/4 cup orange juice along with 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp tequila if you’re up for a little extra fun. Then there’s the garlic—3 cloves minced to perfection—plus a good pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper.

I also mix in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika to give it an unforgettable kick along with a dash of chopped fresh cilantro. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites among grilled shrimp recipes and it’s a twist on the best bbq shrimp recipes I know.

If you love grilled shrimp kabobs, you’re going to be hooked!

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how the marinade packs a punch of fresh citrus and spices that make every bite burst with flavor, and it really makes me feel like I’m eating something special.
2. I really dig how quick and easy it is to prep this recipe – marinating the shrimp for just 15 to 30 minutes is totally doable even on a busy night.
3. I appreciate that it lets me switch things up just by leaving out the tequila if I’m not in the mood for it, so it’s flexible for any taste.
4. I enjoy the way the shrimp gets that perfect grill char in just a couple of minutes, giving it a smoky taste that feels a little bit fancy yet down to earth.

Ingredients

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

Jumbo shrimp provide lean protein and low saturated fat which makes the meal hearty and healthy.
Fresh lime juice gives a sour kick with vitamin C, brightenin up the overall flavor.
Orange juice adds natural sweetness and a citrus burst that balances out the spices.
Tequila, which is optional, offers a lively twist that enhances the marinade flavor.
Fresh cilantro delivers a burst of herbal freshness and extra antioxidants, making it a tasty garnish.

Ingredient Quantities

1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 cup orange juice

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp tequila (optional, if you prefer to skip it)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make this

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, tequila, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them until they’re well coated in the marinade.

3. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes; don’t marinate too long cause the acid can start cooking them.

4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

5. Thread the shrimp onto skewers evenly; if you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water first so they dont burn.

6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

7. During the last minute of grilling you can brush a little extra marinade over the shrimp for extra flavor.

8. Remove the kabobs from the grill, sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over them, and serve immediately.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Whisk
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Grill (or a grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor one)
6. Skewers (wooden skewers that have been soaked or metal skewers)
7. Tongs
8. Brush for basting extra marinade

These are the key items you’ll need to get started.

FAQ

What type of shrimp should I use?

Use jumbo shrimp because they hold up well on the grill. If you use smaller ones, they'll cook too fast so be careful.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

It’s best to marinate the shrimp for about 20 to 30 minutes. Don't leave them too long, as the citrus can start to cook the shrimp.

Can I skip the tequila?

Yes, you can skip the tequila if you want an alcohol-free option. The lime and orange juices give plenty of flavor on their own.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Look for the shrimp turning pink and curling up slightly on the edges. They cook fast on the grill so keep an eye on them.

Do I need to soak the wooden skewers?

Yes, if you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you can’t find fresh lime juice, try using lemon juice instead – its tart flavor works real good as a substitute.
Don’t have orange juice? Grapefruit juice can be a cool alternative and adds a slightly different tang.
Out of olive oil? Avocado oil or even a mild vegetable oil will do the trick, even if the flavor is a bit different.
If tequila isn’t your thing or you don’t have it, a splash of rum could give a fun tropical twist to your marinade.
No fresh cilantro? Chopped parsley is a great swap, giving you a similar fresh herbal note without being too overpowering.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you dont let the shrimp sit in the marinade for too long cause the citrus can literally “cook” them; 15 minutes is plenty to get all that flavor in but keep ’em tender.

2. If your skewers are wooden, soak them in water for at least a little while before grilling to stop them from catching on fire on the grill.

3. Get your grill really hot (medium high is best) so you can get that awesome sear, but keep an eye on them so they dont overcook and turn all rubbery.

4. Try brushing a bit extra marinade on the shrimp during the last minute of cooking; it’ll freshen up the flavor and give that extra punch at the end.