This Honey Tequila Lime Shrimp is juicy and full of flavor! With a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s perfect for a quick meal or a fun party dish.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss the shrimp in the sweet sauce and grill them for a few minutes. Serve with rice or tacos, and watch them disappear! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If you’re unable to find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work well. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Tequila: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the tequila with lime juice or soda. You won’t get the same depth, but it will still be tasty!
Honey: If you’re looking for a vegan option, swap honey for agave nectar or maple syrup. Both will add sweetness, but check for the perfect balance for your taste.
Jalapeño: If you want to tone down the heat, you can use bell peppers instead. They still add color and crunch without the spice.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure they’re juicy and tender:
- Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. This helps the shrimp sear nicely.
- Cook the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Watch for color change: shrimp should go from grey to pink. Once they turn opaque, they’re ready!
- Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can get tough. Usually, 3-5 minutes is all you need.
A good tip is to take them off the heat as soon as they’re done. They’ll continue to cook slightly from residual heat, keeping them tender!
Honey Tequila Lime Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup tequila
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious option for a weeknight dinner or when you have guests. Enjoy a burst of flavor in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sauté the garlic and shrimp, but not smoking.
2. Sauté Garlic and Jalapeño:
Add the minced garlic and thinly sliced jalapeño to the skillet. Sauté them for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and slightly golden.
4. Add the Tequila:
Carefully flip the shrimp over and pour in the tequila. Allow it to cook for about 1 minute—this helps the alcohol evaporate and adds depth to your dish.
5. Mix in the Glaze:
Stir in the honey, lime juice, and lime zest. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated in the sweet, tangy glaze.
6. Complete the Cooking:
Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The shrimp should be opaque and juicy. Don’t overcook them!
7. Finish Up and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Serve warm, garnished with lime wedges for that extra zing!
Enjoy this vibrant, sweet, and tangy shrimp dish! It’s perfect paired with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. The best method is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Tequila?
If you prefer to skip the tequila, you can use additional lime juice or a splash of chicken or vegetable broth. It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Honey Tequila Lime Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little lime juice or water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! You can add more jalapeños or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference!
