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Tequila Lime Shrimp Recipe

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4.3 from 7 reviews

This Tequila Lime Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Succulent jumbo shrimp are marinated with a vibrant blend of tequila, lime, and spices, then sautéed to perfection with garlic and jalapeño for a zesty, slightly smoky kick. Topped with fresh cilantro and lime zest, this dish offers a refreshing balance of citrus and spice in just 20 minutes.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade and Seasoning

  • 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder

Cooking Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp tequila or mezcal
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lime, juice and zest
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and brown sugar. Toss well to evenly coat the shrimp with the spice mixture.
  2. Heat the pan and sauté garlic. Warm olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  3. Cook the shrimp. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the underside is pink and slightly charred.
  4. Flip and add tequila and jalapeño. Turn the shrimp over to the other side, then immediately pour in the tequila (or mezcal), add lime juice, and diced jalapeño. The alcohol will deglaze the pan, creating a flavorful sauce.
  5. Finish cooking the shrimp. Continue cooking the shrimp for another 2 minutes, or until they become opaque and are fully cooked through, allowing the flavors to meld with the tequila-lime sauce.
  6. Garnish and serve. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the cooked shrimp with fresh lime zest and roughly chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy it as is or with your favorite side.

Notes

  • You can substitute mezcal for tequila if you want a smokier flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your heat preference.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh green salad.
  • For best results, use fresh lime juice and zest.
  • If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace tequila with fresh lime juice and a splash of orange juice.