The tantalizing Tequila Lime Shrimp recipe is an ideal blend of citrus and spice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive party appetizer. The succulent shrimp get a boost of flavor from a marinade of zesty lime, fiery tequila, and aromatic spices creating a dish that's sure to impress your guests or family.
For this recipe, you'll need jumbo shrimp - the star of our dish. It's worth noting that 'jumbo' in shrimp parlance refers to a size of about 16-20 per pound. You can usually find them at a well-stocked grocery store or fish market. Another special ingredient is tequila. Opt for a good quality one which will add a unique, smoky flavor. You'll also need fresh cilantro, don't confuse it with coriander, although they come from the same plant, their flavors are different.
Ingredients for Tequila Lime Shrimp
Jumbo shrimp: These are the main ingredient of the dish and bring a tender, juicy texture.
Ground cumin: This provides a warm, earthy flavor.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: These seasonings enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp, it adds a rich depth to the dish.
Garlic: This adds a robust, pungent flavor.
Red pepper flakes: These add a kick of heat to the dish.
Lime juice: This provides a tangy, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the shrimp.
Tequilla: This gives the dish a unique, smoky flavor.
Fresh cilantro: This adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
One reader, Kermy Richey says:
This tequila lime shrimp recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of tangy and savory, and the shrimp turns out succulent every time. It's become a go-to dish for dinner parties and family gatherings. I highly recommend trying it out for a delightful culinary experience!
Mastering the Techniques for Tequila Lime Shrimp
Seasoning the shrimp: Coat the shrimp with ground cumin, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Cooking the shrimp: Heat a large nonstick skillet over high heat, then add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on one side before turning them over.
Adding tequila: Pour the tequila into the skillet and cook for 30 to 40 seconds until slightly evaporated, adding a unique flavor to the dish.
Squeezing lime juice: After removing the skillet from the heat, squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp to add a zesty citrus flavor.
Adding cilantro: Toss the cooked shrimp with fresh cilantro to infuse the dish with a burst of herbal freshness.
How To Make Tequila Lime Shrimp
Level up your weeknight dinner with this tequila lime shrimp seasoned with cumin, then finished with a squeeze of lime and cilantro.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbjumbo shrimp,peeled and deveined
- ¼tspground cumin
- ¼tspkosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ½tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 4clovesgarlic,crushed
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed
- 2tbsplime juice,from 1 medium lime
- 2oztequilla
- 3tbspfresh cilantro,rough, chopped
Instructions
-
Season the shrimp with cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
-
Heat a very large nonstick skillet over high heat.
-
Add the oil and shrimp to the pan, and cook them undisturbed for about 2 minutes.
-
Turn the shrimp over, add garlic, red pepper flakes, then cook for about 1 minute until opaque throughout.
-
Add the tequila and cook for 30 to 40 seconds until slightly evaporated, remove from heat then squeeze the lime juice over all the shrimp.
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Add the cilantro, toss well, and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 103.01kcal
- Fat: 2.89g
- Saturated Fat: 0.54g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.53g
- Carbohydrates: 2.88g
- Fiber: 0.18g
- Sugar: 0.19g
- Protein: 15.72g
- Cholesterol: 142.88mg
- Sodium: 643.17mg
- Calcium: 70.14mg
- Potassium: 158.26mg
- Iron: 0.42mg
- Vitamin A: 64.68µg
- Vitamin C: 3.47mg
One Simple Technique to Elevate Your Tequila Lime Shrimp
When cooking the shrimp, it's crucial not to overcook them as they can quickly become tough and rubbery. The key is to cook them until they just turn opaque and then remove them from the heat immediately. The residual heat will continue to cook the shrimp to perfection. Additionally, when adding the tequila, be careful as it can flame up. To prevent this, remove the pan from the heat before adding the tequila, then return it to finish cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Shrimp Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and marinate the shrimp in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pan wonder: Opt for a large skillet to cook the shrimp and minimize cleanup.
Quick fix: Use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save time on preparation.
Efficient cooking: Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
Flavor shortcut: Use pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.
Fresh and ready: Keep essential ingredients like lime juice, tequila, and cilantro readily available for quick access during cooking.
Smart timing: Multitask by preparing side dishes while the shrimp cooks to save time overall.
Substitute Ingredients For Tequila Lime Shrimp Recipe
jumbo shrimp - Substitute with large prawns: Large prawns can be used as a substitute for jumbo shrimp, as they have a similar texture and flavor profile.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for ground cumin, as it has a similar warm and citrusy flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, as it provides a similar level of salinity and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra-virgin olive oil, as it has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking the shrimp.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, as they provide a mild, sweet, and slightly pungent flavor to the dish.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes, as it adds a similar level of heat and spiciness to the dish.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, as it provides a similar level of acidity and citrusy flavor to the shrimp.
tequila - Substitute with white wine: White wine can be used as a substitute for tequila, as it adds a depth of flavor and acidity to the dish without the distinct tequila taste.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, as it provides a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Presenting Tequila Lime Shrimp for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern on the plate, slightly overlapping each other to create a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle the fresh cilantro over the shrimp, ensuring it is evenly distributed for a pop of color and added freshness.
Drizzle with tequila lime reduction: Create an artistic drizzle of the tequila lime reduction around the edge of the plate, adding a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Incorporate lime wedges: Place small lime wedges strategically around the shrimp to add a vibrant and citrusy element to the presentation.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through without overwhelming the visual appeal.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tequila Lime Shrimp
Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing, frying, and searing ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves with ease.
Citrus juicer: A device designed to extract juice from citrus fruits such as lemons and limes.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Tongs: A versatile kitchen tool used for gripping and lifting hot items, such as shrimp, while cooking.
Microplane grater: A fine grater used to zest citrus fruits and grate garlic with precision.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
Lime squeezer: A handheld tool used to extract juice from limes efficiently.
Tequila: A type of alcoholic spirit made from the blue agave plant, used to add flavor to the dish.
Storing and Freezing Tequila Lime Shrimp for Later
- To store leftover tequila lime shrimp, allow the shrimp to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When ready to reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, taking care not to overcook them as they can become tough and rubbery.
- To freeze the cooked shrimp, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1 hour, or until the shrimp are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen tequila lime shrimp, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow the shrimp to thaw overnight. Alternatively, place the frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them until they are thawed, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Reheat thawed shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long.
- While it's best to enjoy the tequila lime shrimp fresh for optimal flavor and texture, storing and freezing them properly can help you enjoy this delicious dish at a later time without compromising its quality too much.
The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Tequila Lime Shrimp
Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Add a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to brighten up the flavors.
For a quick and easy option, microwave the leftover shrimp in 30-second intervals until heated through. Place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Stir in a bit of lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Transform your leftover tequila lime shrimp into a delicious salad. Toss the chilled shrimp with mixed greens, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. The cool, refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Create a flavorful shrimp quesadilla by placing the leftover shrimp, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro between two tortillas. Cook the quesadilla in a skillet or on a griddle until the cheese melts and the tortillas are golden brown. Serve with salsa and sour cream for dipping.
Use the leftover tequila lime shrimp as a topping for a comforting bowl of shrimp and grits. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet with a touch of butter and garlic, then serve over creamy, cheesy grits. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress.
A Surprising Fact About Tequila Lime Shrimp
Tequila lime shrimp is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine and is often enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. The combination of tequila and lime juice gives the shrimp a tangy and flavorful taste, while the cilantro adds a fresh and aromatic element to the dish. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy and delicious option for seafood lovers. This dish is also versatile and can be served with rice, pasta, or as a filling for tacos or burritos. It's a great way to add a taste of Mexico to your meal!
Tequila Lime Shrimp: Budget-Friendly or Splurge-Worthy?
The cost-effectiveness of this tequila lime shrimp recipe is quite favorable. The main ingredients, such as shrimp, garlic, and lime, are reasonably priced and widely available. The addition of tequila may be a bit more expensive, but the small quantity used keeps the overall cost manageable. This flavorful dish offers a delightful balance of zesty and savory flavors, earning a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $25, making it an affordable and impressive option for a special dinner.
Is This Shrimp Recipe Healthy or Not?
The tequila lime shrimp recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its lean protein source and the use of fresh ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's health aspects:
- Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood that provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin B12.
- Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health when consumed in moderation.
- Garlic and cilantro offer various health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and aiding digestion.
- Lime juice provides vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and aids in iron absorption.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- The recipe calls for jumbo shrimp, which may have higher levels of cholesterol compared to smaller shrimp. Opting for smaller shrimp or reducing the overall portion size can help manage cholesterol intake.
- Tequila, while used in small amounts, still contributes to the overall alcohol content of the dish. Alcohol consumption should be moderated, especially for those with certain health conditions.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Serve the shrimp with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables, such as roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a colorful salad. This will increase the fiber content and provide additional vitamins and minerals.
- Replace the olive oil with a healthier alternative, such as avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Reduce the amount of added salt and instead rely on the natural flavors of the lime juice, garlic, and cilantro to season the dish. This will help keep sodium levels in check, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
- If you're looking to cut back on alcohol, consider replacing the tequila with a splash of low-sodium vegetable broth or additional lime juice. This will maintain the dish's flavor profile while reducing the alcohol content.
Our Editor's Honest Opinion on Tequila Lime Shrimp
This Tequila Lime Shrimp recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of zesty lime, fiery tequila, and succulent shrimp creates a dish that is both vibrant and satisfying. The use of fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note, while the garlic and red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick. The cooking process ensures that the shrimp are perfectly cooked, tender, and infused with the bold flavors of the ingredients. Overall, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience that is sure to impress and tantalize the taste buds.
Enhance Your Tequila Lime Shrimp Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Tequila Lime Shrimp
Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Tequila Lime Shrimp
Why trust this Tequila Lime Shrimp Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience, as it features succulent jumbo shrimp infused with the zesty flavors of lime juice and tequila. The aromatic blend of garlic and cilantro adds depth to the dish, while the cumin and red pepper flakes provide a tantalizing kick. With careful attention to detail and a focus on quality, this recipe ensures a harmonious fusion of flavors that will undoubtedly impress your palate.
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