Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs make for a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The bold flavors from the marinade bring out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while a splash of tequila adds a fun twist to this easy-to-make recipe. These kabobs are great for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a meal with family, these shrimp kabobs will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: With a mix of spices and garlic, these kabobs pack a punch of flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these shrimp kabobs with rice, salad, or in tacos to suit any meal preference.
• Healthy Choice: Loaded with protein and healthy fats, this dish fits well into various diets without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Grilling: The recipe is designed specifically for grilling, giving your shrimp that delicious charred flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools needed to whip up these tasty Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill is essential for achieving that smoky char on your shrimp.
• Mixing Bowl: A wide shallow bowl allows easy mixing and marinating of the shrimp.
• Immersion Blender: This tool helps blend the marinade smoothly for even coating on shrimp.
• Skewers: If you choose to skewer the shrimp, they make handling on the grill much easier.

Ingredients

Jumbo shrimp are marinated in bold flavors found in many Mexican dishes. A splash of tequila is included for the margarita effect, but you can certainly leave it out if you prefer – this dish is awesome either way!

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 using wood skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

1. Place the shrimp in a wide shallow bowl and set aside.
2. In another bowl, combine all ingredients from olive oil through black pepper.
3. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth or use a food processor.
4. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and gently stir to coat evenly.
5. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours, folding gently about halfway through.

Step 3: Assemble Kabobs (Optional)

If you’re using skewers:
1. Drizzle tequila over marinated shrimp and fold gently to combine.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers with folded lime slices between each piece.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure that the grates are clean and oiled well before adding the shrimp.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Set the marinated shrimp on grates and grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Cook until they are no longer translucent and have developed a nice char.

Step 6: Serve

Place grilled shrimp on 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 not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavors and presentation, making your meal memorable.

With Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime over the shrimp for a bright and zesty finish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kabobs on a bed of fluffy white or cilantro-lime rice for a filling meal.

Accompanied by Guacamole

• Pair with creamy guacamole for a rich contrast that complements the shrimp’s flavors.

As Part of a Taco Bar

• Offer the kabobs alongside tortillas and toppings for guests to create their own tacos.

With a Side Salad

• A light salad with avocado and tomatoes balances the richness of the shrimp dish.

Paired with Cold Beverages

• Serve with refreshing margaritas or chilled beers to enhance the festive atmosphere.

How to Perfect Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

To achieve the best results with your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs, follow these tips that ensure flavor and texture perfection.

• Choose the right shrimp: Use extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 per pound) for maximum juiciness and flavor.
• Marinate adequately: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 2 hours to absorb all the bold flavors.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before cooking to achieve that perfect char without overcooking.
• Watch cooking time: Grill shrimp just until they turn opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Use skewers wisely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
• Add fresh herbs post-cooking: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top after grilling for added freshness and color.

Best Side Dishes for Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Serving side dishes alongside your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cilantro-Lime Rice
   A flavorful rice dish that complements the zesty shrimp perfectly.

2. Mexican Street Corn Salad
   A vibrant salad featuring corn, lime, and cotija cheese adds a delightful crunch.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Assorted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini grilled until tender harmonize well with the kabobs.

4. Chips and Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a great appetizer before diving into the main dish.

5. Black Bean Salad
   This protein-packed salad brings additional texture and flavor, balancing out the meal nicely.

6. Avocado Toast
   Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread offers a modern twist that’s both satisfying and simple.

7. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes is nutritious and pairs well with grilled flavors.

8. Margarita Pasta Salad
   A fun pasta salad infused with margarita flavors rounds out this Mexican-inspired feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs turn out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Over-marinating the shrimp: Marinating for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended 2 to 3 hours for optimal results.

• Using unpeeled shrimp: Leaving the shells on makes it difficult for the marinade to penetrate. Always peel and devein your shrimp for maximum flavor.

• Neglecting skewer prep: If using wooden skewers, soaking them is crucial. This prevents burning on the grill. Always soak for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

• Grilling at too high a temperature: Cooking shrimp too hot can cause them to char quickly and become tough. Medium-high heat is ideal for even cooking.

• Not checking doneness: Shrimp cook quickly and should be removed from the grill as soon as they are opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months before grilling.

Reheating Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts until warm, about 1-2 minutes.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs without tequila?

Yes! The tequila adds flavor but is not necessary. You can skip it or replace it with lime juice for extra zest.

What type of shrimp is best for kabobs?

Extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 per pound) are ideal due to their size and ability to stay juicy while grilling.

How do I know when my shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and firm up. They usually take about 3-4 minutes per side on the grill.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are a delightful blend of flavors that bring a taste of Mexico right to your grill. They’re versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. Feel free to customize your kabobs by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!