Tequila Shrimp
Tangy and spicy tequila-marinated shrimp with fresh cilantro and garlic, perfect for entertaining or a flavorful weeknight meal with bold citrus and chili notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together 3/4 cup tequila, lime juice, salad oil, a pinch of cilantro, 4 smashed garlic cloves, a pinch of minced chilies, sugar, salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Place the shrimp in the marinade and let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Drain the shrimp, reserving the marinade.
- Cook the shrimp as desired (grilling, sautéing, or baking).
- Serve with softened butter and chilled butter for dipping if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, let the shrimp marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if time permits. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of Serrano chilies or substitute with jalapeños. You can also use lime zest for an extra citrus kick. Consider using fresh cilantro for a more vibrant flavor, or try substituting with parsley if cilantro isn’t available.
Serving Suggestions
Tequila Shrimp is delightful when served with a side of Mexican rice or alongside a fresh avocado salad. Consider pairing with a zesty lime crema or a refreshing mango salsa for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes such as Black Bean And Shrimp In Sauce for a complete meal. Don’t forget to serve the shrimp with the softened and chilled butter for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, you can enjoy the shrimp cold in a salad or as part of a seafood platter. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tequila Shrimp contains roughly 2990 calories, with 114g protein, 365g carbohydrates, and 145g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (1111% of the Daily Value), protein (227% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 work well for this dish. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure the flavors absorb well.
What can I substitute for gold tequila?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the gold tequila with a mixture of lime juice and a bit of apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, use a non-alcoholic tequila alternative or simply add extra lime juice and a splash of soda for a refreshing twist.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking just 2-3 minutes per side depending on the cooking method. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery. As they cook, look for the characteristic 'C' shape; if they curl tightly, they are likely overdone.
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).