Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe

I took jumbo shrimp, marinated them in olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and jalapeno, then added a kick with cumin and chili powder. A splash of tequila brings an extra twist to my Grilled Tequila Lime Shrimp that fills every bite with bold, unforgettable flavor. Absolutely.

I’ve always been a huge fan of grilled shrimp, and this Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs recipe is easily one of my top picks. The idea of marinating 1 lb jumbo shrimp in flavors like freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and a bit of tequila always gets me excited to fire up the grill.

I love that this recipe perfectly balances the zest of lime and tang of tequila with a kick from a seeded jalapeno and the smoky warmth of cumin and chili powder. Even if you pass on the tequila, its still super tasty.

I like sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro on top and serving them with lime wedges to really bring out the fiesta flavor. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re enjoying the best grilled shrimp recipes while keeping it simple and fresh.

Enjoy making these fun, flavorful shrimp kabobs.

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe because:
1. I get a fun punch of flavor from the tequila-lime marinade that makes every bite zesty and refreshing.
2. It comes together really fast and is perfect for when I want a quick, tasty meal without too much fuss.
3. The mix of spicy jalapeno, garlic, and fresh cilantro gives each bite a kick that keeps things interesting.
4. Grilling the shrimp to get those slightly charred edges instantly reminds me of summer parties and relaxed evenings outside.

Here’s the recipe reworked like a real person might write it:

Jumbo shrimp get a killer marinade with lime juice, tequila (if you’re feelin’ that margarita vibe), olive oil, garlic, chopped jalapeno, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh cilantro. I mix all these together in a bowl until its all blended. Then I toss the shrimp in so every piece is coated. I let it chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, but I like not to leave it for more than 30.

If you use wooden skewers, just soak ’em in water for about 30 minutes so they dont burn. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and thread the shrimp evenly onto the skewers. Grill them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink with slightly charred edges. Be careful not to overcook them, cause they get tough real quick. Once they’re done, take the kabobs off the grill, squeeze a fresh lime wedge over them or serve extra lime wedges on the side, and just enjoy your Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs however you like.

Ingredients

• Jumbo shrimp: lean protein source that helps build muscle and adds a light seafood flavor.
• Freshly squeezed lime juice: bursts with a sour tang, is full of vitamin C, and brings life to the dish.
• Tequila: optional ingredient that adds a vibrant Margarita twist, its kick makes the flavor pop.
• Olive oil: provides healthy fats and a smooth texture, which helps blend all the ingredients good.
• Jalapeno: introduces a spark of heat, intensifying the overall flavor and giving it a spicy twist.
• Garlic: rich in antioxidants, it elevates the dish’s aroma and taste in a bold way.
• Cilantro: fresh herb that gives a vibrant, slightly citrusy note which just ties it all together.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup tequila (if you wanna add that Margarita vibe, otherwise skip it)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small jalapeno, seeded and chopped (adjust based on your heat level)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

How to Make this

1. In a bowl, mix the tequila, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chopped jalapeno, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper and fresh cilantro until well combined.

2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade, making sure every shrimp gets coated. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, but no more than 30 minutes.

3. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand so they dont burn on the grill.

4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

5. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers evenly.

6. Place the shrimp kabobs onto the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and have slightly charred edges.

7. Be careful not to overcook them because they can get really tough.

8. Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and transfer them to a plate.

9. Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the kabobs or serve extra lime wedges on the side.

10. Enjoy your Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs as they are or with your favorite side dish.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl for combining the marinade ingredients
2. Measuring cups and spoons so you get the right tequila, lime juice, oil and spices
3. Knife and cutting board for mincing garlic, chopping the jalapeno and cilantro
4. Wooden skewers (soaked in water) or metal skewers for threading the shrimp
5. Grill preheated to medium-high heat
6. Tongs for turning the shrimp kabobs on the grill
7. Plate for serving the finished kabobs

FAQ

Juicy Margarita Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have tequila or just want to mix it up, try using white rum or triple sec instead.
• You can swap the lime juice for lemon juice if you’re after a different citrus kick.
• Not big on olive oil? Avocado oil works great and gives a neutral taste.
• If fresh cilantro isn’t available, parsley or basil can do the trick pretty well.

Pro Tips

• Let the shrimp marinate just long enough, cause over-marinating in such a citrusy mixture can actually start “cooking” them before they hit the grill.

• Make sure you soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill. It really helps in keeping your kabobs intact.

• Preheat your grill properly; a steady medium-high heat helps get that perfect char on the shrimp without drying them out.

• For an extra flavor boost, try brushing a little extra olive oil on the shrimp just before they hit the grill. It gives them a nice moisture and flavor kick.