Margarita Shrimp

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

Juicy shrimp are sautéed with onion and garlic, then flamed with tequila and finished with lime, creating a zesty, flavorful dish perfect for seafood lovers and gatherings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 5 Tbsp. corn oil
  • 1 lb. uncooked peeled shrimp
  • 1/2 c. minced onion
  • 2 large minced garlic cloves
  • 1/4 c. tequila
  • 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp. margarita salt
  • lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat corn oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add shrimp, minced onion, and minced garlic; sauté until shrimp turns pink, about 1 minute.
  3. Remove from heat and add tequila; return to heat and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits.
  4. Transfer to a medium bowl and cool.
  5. Toss shrimp with fresh lime juice and margarita salt.
  6. Garnish with lime wedges and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the shrimp while sautéing. If tequila is unavailable, a splash of white wine or even broth can work as a substitute. Always ensure the shrimp are fresh to avoid rubbery texture; they should be translucent before cooking. This recipe can be easily turned into a delicious shrimp taco filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Margarita Shrimp over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with lime wedges and can be complemented by a side of guacamole or chips. For a festive gathering, consider serving it as an appetizer with a refreshing drink, making it a perfect addition to your Mexican recipes collection.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or as a topping for tortilla chips, making it a versatile dish for any meal.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Margarita Shrimp contains roughly 609 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 963mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).

609 kcal 30% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.9g 12% DV
Total Fat 46.5g 60% DV
Carbs 41.8g 15% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 6g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 963mg 42% DV
Potassium 161.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 9.5mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.2mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 6.4mg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 41.5mg 3% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% DV
Contains Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but it's important to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for about 10 minutes. Ensure they are pat dry to achieve the best sautéing results.

What can I serve with Margarita Shrimp?

Margarita Shrimp pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You might also consider serving it with warm tortillas or as a topping for nachos for a fun twist. For a refreshing drink, serve with a classic margarita or a light beer to enhance the flavors.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the shrimp. You can also sprinkle in some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier flavor. Adjust according to your heat preference for the best experience.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Mexican recipes → Seafood recipes → All recipes →