Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Jumbo shrimp take center stage in these Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs! This dish brings together vibrant flavors that reflect the spirit of Mexican cuisine, making it perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of fresh lime and spices, along with the option to include tequila, adds a unique twist that will delight your taste buds. These kabobs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile—serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a taco night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: This recipe features a zesty marinade packed with garlic and spices that infuse the shrimp with delicious taste.
• Quick prep time: With just 30 minutes of prep and 6 minutes of cooking, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
• Perfect for gatherings: These kabobs are great for parties and barbecues, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spices or omit tequila to match your preferences.
• Healthy and satisfying: Low in carbs and high in protein, these grilled shrimp fit well into various diet plans.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make everything smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds a delightful char to your shrimp.
• Mixing bowl: Using a wide bowl makes marinating easier; you can mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Immersion blender: This tool helps create a smooth marinade quickly, ensuring proper flavor distribution.

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: Prepare Your Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers for your kabobs, start soaking them in water while you prepare the marinade. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place shrimp in a wide shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine 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 blend until smooth. Pour this marinade over the shrimp and gently stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs

If desired, drizzle tequila over the marinated shrimp and gently fold to combine. If using skewers, thread shrimp onto them with folded slices of lime between each shrimp.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high. Ensure that the grates are clean and oiled well before placing the kabobs on them.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Set shrimp on the grill grates and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. They should be opaque and have a nice char when done. Remember that smaller shrimp will cook faster.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

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

How to Serve Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. Their vibrant flavors and easy preparation make them a crowd-pleaser. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

On Skewers

• Serve shrimp on skewers for an eye-catching presentation. Add thin slices of lime between the shrimp for added flavor and decoration.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pair with a refreshing salsa, such as pico de gallo or mango salsa. The fruity and zesty notes complement the grilled shrimp beautifully.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Lay the grilled shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This will soak up the bold flavors from the marinade and provide a hearty base.

In Tacos

• Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos. Top with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious twist.

With Avocado Crema

• Serve alongside homemade avocado crema. Its creaminess perfectly balances the spicy kick from the shrimp kabobs.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top just before serving for an extra burst of freshness that enhances both flavor and color.

How to Perfect Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

To ensure your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and produce will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Marinate properly: Allowing shrimp to marinate for at least 2 hours helps infuse bold flavors.
• Don’t overcook: Grill shrimp just until they are opaque; overcooking can lead to rubbery textures.
• Maintain grill temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for optimal cooking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices in the marinade to match your personal taste preferences.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy your kabobs right off the grill for the best flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs can enhance your meal further. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy salad featuring grilled corn, cheese, and spices that complements the kabobs nicely.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime adds freshness and pairs well with the flavors of the shrimp.
3. Black Bean Salsa: A hearty salsa made from black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime juice provides a delightful contrast.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables grilled alongside the kabobs create a colorful and nutritious side.
5. Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips makes for a fun appetizer or side dish.
6. Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that adds zing and brightness to each bite of shrimp kabob.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a healthy alternative that absorbs all the delicious juices from the shrimp.
8. Chips and Salsa Verde: Crisp tortilla chips served with tangy salsa verde provide a crunchy complement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Over-marinating the shrimp: Marinating shrimp for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for 2 to 3 hours maximum to keep them tender and flavorful.
• Skipping the soaking of skewers: If using wooden skewers, not soaking them can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can result in uneven cooking and sticking. Always heat your grill to medium-high before placing the shrimp on it.
• Grilling shrimp too long: Overcooking shrimp makes them tough. Grill for just 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are opaque and slightly charred.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The spice level may vary based on personal preference. Taste your marinade before adding it to the shrimp and adjust accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

• Place cooked kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs more spicy?

You can increase the minced jalapeno or add a dash of cayenne pepper to enhance the heat level of your marinade.

Can I use frozen shrimp for these kabobs?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

What sides pair well with Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs?

Pairing these kabobs with Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad makes for a well-rounded meal.

How do I customize my Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or veggies according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. Give it a try, and enjoy the burst of flavors!