Sauteed Tequila Lime Shrimp Recipe
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
10 mins
-
Cook Time
8 mins
-
Total Time
18 mins
-
Servings
4 people
-
Calories
143 kcal
-
Course
Main Course, Dinner
-
Cuisine
South American, American, Mexican, Tex-Mex
Sauteed Tequila Lime Shrimp Recipe
Description
The core of this recipe centers on sautéing peeled and deveined large shrimp in butter infused with garlic, which provides a rich, savory base. Adding tequila introduces a subtle smoky, slightly sharp note, balanced by lime zest and lime juice for citrus brightness. The crushed red pepper adds a hint of heat without overwhelming, and fresh cilantro leaf at the end lifts the overall flavor profile.
The shrimp are cooked just until pink and curled into a gentle C shape, ensuring they remain tender and juicy without becoming tough or rubbery. The quick sauté method in a hot skillet allows flavors to meld rapidly and retain shrimp's natural sweetness.
This shrimp dish works well as a standalone main, appetizer, or as an addition over rice or salad. For best flavor and texture, serve immediately after cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off, large raw
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup tequila blanco
- 1 lime 1 tsp zest + 2 Tb juice
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper
- ¼ cup cilantro chopped
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Place a large 12-14 inch skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the tequila, lime zest, lime juice, crushed red pepper, and cilantro. Stir. Then add in the shrimp. Salt and pepper liberally.
- Sauté the shrimp for 5-7 minutes. Make sure they are fully pink, yet that the shrimp are still in the C shape, not closed like an O shape. (Remember, O is for overcooked.)
- Turn off the heat. Then taste and salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- Using pre-cleaned shrimp significantly reduces preparation time.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to control the spice level according to preference.
- Consume shrimp soon after cooking for optimal tenderness; leftovers can be refrigerated for 2–3 days and used cold on salads or gently reheated at medium-low power.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 143 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 8oz | |
| Calories | 143kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 0.4g | 1% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4g | 2% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 0.5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 30mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 92mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 32mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 0.3g | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 433IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 12mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.2mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.