Tequila Lime Shrimp Appetizer
Tequila lime shrimp is one of those appetizers that always disappears fast. It’s tangy, a little smoky, and has just enough heat to keep things interesting. Whether you’re throwing a backyard get-together or making snacks for a game day crowd, this shrimp appetizer brings big flavor in a small bite.

This is one of those appetizers that brings real energy to the table. The tequila adds a slight kick, the lime keeps it fresh, and the whole thing cooks in under 10 minutes. It’s a simple way to impress without overcomplicating things.
Helpful Tips
- There is no need to marinate the shrimp, but you can. The lime juice will start to cook the shrimp after 15 minutes, so don’t let it sit too long.
- Use large shrimp so they hold up well when skewered or plated.
- Add a quick garnish of chopped cilantro and lime wedges to dress them up for serving.
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Tequila Lime Shrimp Appetizer
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon blanco tequila
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt AND pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Add it to a with the lime juice, lime zest, tequila, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Stir to coat the shrimp.
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes on each side, until shrimp is lightly charred. Set cooked shrimp aside and repeat with remaining shrimp.
- Turn heat off. Add all shrimp back to hot skillet and stir. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
