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Grilled Tequila-Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe

These Margarita Shrimp Skewers are an ideal summer dish: light, fresh, and packed with bright lime, garlic, cilantro and a touch of tequila. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, they grill up in minutes and make a healthy, satisfying meal.

Margarita Shrimp Skewers marinated in garlic, lime, cilantro and tequila

I love shrimp for summer cooking — they’re fast, versatile, and absorb marinades beautifully. These Margarita Shrimp Skewers are simple to make and rely on a handful of fresh ingredients for bold, zesty flavor. The marinade of fresh lime juice and zest, garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil and a splash of tequila complements the shrimp without overpowering them. Because shrimp cook so quickly, this recipe is perfect for weeknight grilling or a weekend barbecue when you want something light, healthy and impressive.

Close-up of Margarita Shrimp Skewers

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb. shrimp – medium to large, peeled and deveined (wild-caught preferred). If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely before marinating.
  • 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice – freshly squeezed for best flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp fresh lime zest – adds concentrated lime aroma.
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil – a good quality cold-pressed olive oil works well.
  • 2 tsp tequila – adds depth and a slight richness to the marinade.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
  • 3 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped – brightens and ties the flavors together.
  • 1/4 tsp salt – adjust to taste.
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper – optional, for a touch of heat.
  • 12 bamboo skewers – soaked for at least 20–30 minutes to prevent burning, or use metal skewers.

How to Make Margarita Shrimp Skewers

  1. Soak skewers. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in cold water for about 20–30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers do not need soaking.
  2. Make the marinade. In a bowl whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, tequila, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt and cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Marinate the shrimp. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. (Do not marinate longer than 4 hours: the lime juice is acidic and will begin to “cook” the shrimp.)
  4. Thread the shrimp. When ready to cook, thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked skewers, distributing them evenly. Discard any excess marinade left in the bag.
  5. Preheat the grill. Heat the grill or a stovetop grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grate or pan so the shrimp won’t stick.
  6. Grill the skewers. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook about 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are opaque and pink with slightly firm texture. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
  7. Finish and serve. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with a little extra chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime if desired. Serve immediately.
Grilled Margarita Shrimp Skewers ready to serve

What to Serve with Shrimp

  • Cilantro lime cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Coconut lime cilantro quinoa for a light, fragrant grain side.
  • Brown rice or a simple cilantro-lime rice for a heartier base.
  • A fresh tomato, cucumber and chickpea salad for bright, crunchy contrast.
  • Pineapple cauliflower rice or grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.

Tips, Variations and Serving Ideas

  • If you prefer no alcohol, substitute the tequila with an additional tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
  • For extra char and smokiness, cook the skewers over direct flame for a minute or two longer, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Add vegetables to the skewers—bell peppers, red onion, or chunks of pineapple work well and grill in a similar time frame if cut small.
  • Make it a meal: serve the skewers over rice or quinoa and finish with avocado slices, a wedge of lime and a light green salad.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for a day and are great cold in salads or tacos.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 6 mins | Total Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

Nutrition (approximate)

Serving: 2 skewers • Calories: 153 kcal • Carbohydrates: 1.7 g • Protein: 23.9 g • Fat: 4.6 g • Saturated Fat: 0.8 g • Sodium: 400 mg • Fiber: 0.1 g • Sugar: 0.2 g

These Margarita Shrimp Skewers deliver bright citrus notes, fragrant cilantro and a hint of tequila—an easy, flavorful choice for grills, gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Enjoy them fresh off the grill with your favorite sides and a squeeze of lime.