Grilled Margarita Shrimp for Two

Grilled Margarita Shrimp for Two Recipe - A Taste of Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 7 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Grilled Margarita Shrimp is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a romantic dinner for two. The combination of fresh cilantro, garlic, margarita mix, and tequila creates a unique and zesty marinade for the shrimp. Grilling the shrimp adds a smoky charred flavor that pairs perfectly with the citrusy marinade.

History

The origins of Grilled Margarita Shrimp are not well-documented, but it is likely inspired by the popular cocktail, the Margarita. The combination of tequila, lime, and salt in a Margarita is a classic flavor profile that has been adapted into various dishes, including this grilled shrimp recipe.

Ingredients

1 tbsp of chopped fresh cilantro
1 tsp of minced garlic
0.25 cup of margarita mix (from a 33.8 oz (958 g) bottle)
2 tbsp of tequila
12 shelled deveined uncooked large shrimp with tails left on

How to prepare

Soak 4 bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes.
In a 1 qt (946 ml) resealable food storage plastic bag, combine cilantro, garlic, margarita mix, and tequila.
Add shrimp; seal the bag and shake to coat.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.
Meanwhile, heat the grill.
When ready to grill, thread the shrimp on skewers; discard the marinade.
Place the shrimp on a gas grill over medium heat or on a charcoal grill 4 to 6 inches over medium coals.
Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink, turning several times.

Variations

To broil shrimp, place skewered shrimp on a broiler pan. Broil the shrimp 4 to 6 inches from the heat, using the specified times as a guide. Remember to turn the shrimp several times during the broiling process.
Substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use a different citrus fruit, such as lemon or orange, in place of the margarita mix.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the bamboo skewers in water before grilling helps prevent them from burning.

- Make sure to discard the marinade after threading the shrimp onto the skewers to avoid cross-contamination.

- Cooking the shrimp over medium heat ensures that they cook evenly and do not become overcooked.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Margarita Shrimp can be served with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. It pairs well with a cold beer or a classic Margarita cocktail.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the shrimp over medium heat ensures that they cook quickly and evenly. Turning the shrimp several times while grilling helps them cook through without becoming overcooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have margarita mix on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of lime juice, orange juice, and a splash of agave syrup. You can also use a pre-made margarita mix from the store.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop and infuse into the shrimp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Grilled Margarita Shrimp on a platter with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Grilled Margarita Shrimp pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a light beer or a classic Margarita cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Grilled Margarita Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled Margarita Shrimp contains approximately 70 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grilled Margarita Shrimp contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Grilled Margarita Shrimp contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Grilled Margarita Shrimp contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Grilled Margarita Shrimp is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

Grilled Margarita Shrimp contains shellfish (shrimp) and alcohol (tequila), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Grilled Margarita Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and flavorful option for a romantic dinner for two.

Summary

Grilled Margarita Shrimp is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a romantic dinner for two. The zesty marinade and smoky grilled flavor make this dish a standout option for a special occasion. Enjoy this flavorful shrimp dish with your loved one for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her beach house. We had spent the afternoon lounging in the sun, sipping on margaritas and catching up on each other's lives. As the sun began to set, Maria announced that she would be making her famous Grilled Margarita Shrimp for dinner. I watched in awe as she effortlessly prepared the ingredients and grilled the shrimp to perfection.

I couldn't wait to learn her secret recipe, so I eagerly offered to help her in the kitchen. Maria chuckled and handed me a cutting board and a knife, instructing me to slice the limes for the marinade. As I worked, she shared with me the story behind the recipe.

She explained that she had first discovered this dish while vacationing in Mexico many years ago. She had stumbled upon a small beachside restaurant where the chef served up the most delicious grilled shrimp she had ever tasted. After a few attempts at recreating the dish at home, Maria had perfected her own version of the recipe, adding her own personal touch with a splash of tequila and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal that evening, I couldn't help but marvel at the flavors bursting in my mouth. The shrimp were tender and juicy, with a subtle hint of tequila and lime that danced on my taste buds. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the years, I honed my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with different variations of the recipe until I had perfected it to my liking. I shared the dish with my family and friends, who all raved about how delicious it was. It became a staple at our summer barbecues and dinner parties, always eliciting compliments and requests for the recipe.

One day, my granddaughter came to visit me and asked if I could teach her how to make the Grilled Margarita Shrimp. I was thrilled at the opportunity to pass down this cherished recipe to her and show her the ropes in the kitchen. We spent the afternoon together, preparing the marinade, grilling the shrimp, and enjoying the fruits of our labor as we dined al fresco on the patio.

As we sat together, savoring each bite of the flavorful shrimp, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and joy in knowing that I had passed on a piece of my culinary legacy to my granddaughter. I knew that she would continue to make this dish for years to come, sharing it with her own loved ones and creating memories around the dinner table, just as I had done.

And so, the tradition of the Grilled Margarita Shrimp lives on in our family, a beloved recipe that brings us together and reminds us of the special moments shared in the kitchen. As I watch my granddaughter master the art of cooking, I am filled with gratitude for the recipes and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I can only hope that she will carry on this tradition with as much love and passion as I have, creating her own culinary adventures and memories along the way.