Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Jumbo shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of margarita flavors make the perfect dish for any occasion. Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are not just ideal for summer barbecues; they also shine at dinner parties or casual weeknight meals. The combination of fresh ingredients and a touch of tequila creates a delightful flavor that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor: The marinade combines garlic, spices, and a splash of tequila, enhancing the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even on a salad for a fresh twist.
• Grill-Friendly: These kabobs can be grilled outdoors or made on an indoor grill pan, making them suitable for any season.
• Healthy Choice: High in protein and low in carbs, these shrimp kabobs fit well into many dietary plans.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Immersion blender or food processor
• Skewers (if using)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that irresistible charred flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: A wide shallow bowl allows for easy mixing and marinating of shrimp without making a mess.
• Immersion Blender: This tool helps achieve a smooth marinade that coats the shrimp evenly.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound raw extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 per pound, peeled and deveined)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 large garlic cloves (roughly chopped)
• 1 teaspoon minced jalapeno
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons tequila (optional)

For Garnish

• Thin slices of fresh lime (if placing shrimp on skewers)
• Chopped cilantro
• Wedges of fresh lime (for squeezing over top of grilled shrimp)

How to Make Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Step 1: Soak Skewers (If Using)

If you’re using wood skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a wide shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, jalapeno, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use an immersion blender to process until smooth. Pour this marinade over the shrimp and gently stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

If you opted to use tequila in your marinade, drizzle it over the marinated shrimp now. Gently fold to combine. If using skewers, thread the shrimp onto them with folded lime slices between each piece.

Step 4: Heat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and oil them well to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp on the grill grates. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are no longer translucent and have nice grill marks. Smaller shrimp will cook faster.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, transfer the kabobs to a platter. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over top. Enjoy your delicious Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs!

How to Serve Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are a flavorful and enticing dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a delicious meal, these shrimp kabobs can be served with a variety of accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

On Skewers

• Serve the shrimp on skewers for an easy-to-handle option that’s perfect for parties.
• Add slices of lime between the shrimp for extra flavor and a colorful presentation.

With Fresh Sides

• Pair with fresh salads like a zesty cilantro-lime slaw to balance the bold flavors.
• Include avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy texture that complements the shrimp.

As Tacos

• Use tortillas to create shrimp tacos; simply add your favorite toppings like cabbage, salsa, or crema.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime juice to enhance the taco experience.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the grilled shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
• Drizzle with extra marinade or lime juice to tie the flavors together.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the cabobs into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at gatherings.
• Offer toothpicks for easy serving and dipping options like spicy mayo or cocktail sauce.

How to Perfect Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Creating the perfect Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your kabobs turn out amazing every time.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh, high-quality jumbo shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 2 hours to absorb all the bold flavors deeply.
• Use High Heat: Grill on medium-high heat to achieve that lovely char without overcooking the shrimp.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between each shrimp on skewers; this promotes even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill until just opaque; typically, 3-4 minutes per side is ideal. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
• Garnish Before Serving: Sprinkle fresh cilantro just before serving for added color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

To complement your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs, consider pairing them with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options that will enhance your meal.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy corn salad mixed with lime, cilantro, and queso fresco brings vibrant flavors.
2. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime zest adds a refreshing touch alongside your kabobs.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and onions provide a colorful and nutritious side option.
4. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and lime juice adds brightness and crunch.
5. Black Bean Salad: A protein-rich bean salad mixed with corn, avocado, and dressing is hearty yet light.
6. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole make for an irresistible snack alongside kabobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating shrimp for less than 2 hours can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 2 to 3 hours to really infuse those bold Mexican flavors.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Grill them just until they’re opaque and have a nice char, usually around 3-4 minutes per side.
• Skipping the oil on the grill: A clean grill is essential, but don’t forget to oil it well. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking for your shrimp kabobs.
• Using large chunks of garlic or jalapeno: Large pieces won’t blend well into the marinade, resulting in uneven flavor distribution. Chop ingredients finely or use an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
• Not using skewers properly: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to prevent burning. Also, don’t overcrowd the skewers; give shrimp space for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

• To freeze, wrap the kabobs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They are best used within 1 month for optimal flavor.

Reheating Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté the kabobs gently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What if I don’t have tequila?

If you prefer not to use tequila, simply leave it out. The marinade will still be flavorful without it!

How do I know when my shrimp are done?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and have a nice pink color with slight char marks. They typically take about 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat.

Can I customize the marinade for my Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices or add citrus juices like orange or grapefruit for extra flavor depth.

Final Thoughts

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs offer a delightful mix of bold flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. They’re versatile too; you can customize the marinade or add vegetables onto skewers alongside the shrimp. Try this recipe at your next gathering and impress your guests with these delicious kebabs!