Margarita Bliss Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Zesty Yogurt Dip
Welcome to a taste of summer with these delightful Margarita Bliss Grilled Shrimp Skewers, perfectly paired with a Zesty Yogurt Dip. This dish is the epitome of a refreshing, tropical meal, offering a burst of citrusy flavors coupled with the mild heat of green pepper sauce. It's an exciting twist on your usual grilled shrimp, sure to impress at any gathering or as a special weeknight treat.
Choosing fresh ingredients is key to the success of this recipe. Look for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp, as their size ensures juiciness and flavor absorption. The frozen margarita mix, when combined with cilantro, adds an irresistible tangy and herby marinade. Using wooden skewers saves time and holds the shrimp securely for even grilling. As for the yogurt dip, opt for a low-fat mango or coconut yogurt, balancing the spice with a creamy sweetness.
Prepping ahead is simple. Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to ensure a hot sear on contact, which is vital for those beautiful char marks. The shrimp need only a brief 10-minute marination, making this recipe both quick and flavorful. Be mindful when threading the shrimp onto the skewers - aim to pass the skewer through both the tail and head to keep them securely in place. Grill until just opaque to retain their tender, succulent texture.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb peeled and deveined large shrimp, tails removed: This provides the main protein and absorbs the marinade flavors beautifully.
- 16 (6-inch) wooden skewers: Essential for holding the shrimp securely while grilling.
- 1 (10-oz) container frozen margarita mix: Offers a sweet and tangy base for the marinade.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
- Cooking spray: Prevents the shrimp from sticking to the grill.
- 1 (6-oz) container low-fat mango or coconut yogurt: Provides a creamy, sweet dip complementing the grilled shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon green pepper sauce: Introduces a touch of heat to the dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for a perfect sear.
- Thread four shrimp onto each skewer. Ensure each shrimp is pierced through both the tail and head to secure them solidly on the skewers.
- In a shallow pan, arrange the skewers in a single layer. Combine the margarita mix with the chopped cilantro and pour this over the shrimp, allowing them to marinate for 10 minutes.
- Once marinated, remove the shrimp from the liquid and lightly coat them with cooking spray for a non-stick surface during grilling.
- Grill the skewers for 1–2 minutes on each side. Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, indicating they are done.
- While the shrimp grill, blend the yogurt with the green pepper sauce in a small bowl to create your zesty dip. This balance of creamy sweetness and mild heat enhances the grilled flavors.
- Serve the shrimp skewers hot off the grill with the yogurt dip on the side for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Shrimp too dry? Ensure not to overcook. Grill until just opaque. If done, add a dash of olive oil post-grill for extra moisture.
- Marinade too thin? Reduce the amount of margarita mix slightly, or chill the marinade longer before use.
- Dip too spicy? Mix in additional plain yogurt to mellow down the heat without losing consistency.
- Shrimp sticking to grill? Before grilling, ensure the grill is adequately preheated and use cooking spray generously.
Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe
Enhance your tropical feast with these pairings:
- Side dishes: A fresh avocado and mango salad adds vibrant color and refreshing flavors.
- Drinks: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy non-alcoholic mocktail pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s tangy and spicy notes.
- Desserts: Finish with a light coconut sorbet to complement the tropical theme.
How to Store Properly
- For refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- For freezing: Lay skewers on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This makes re-serving easy, as you can remove one at a time.
- When reheating from frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge and re-grill or bake at 300°F until heated through.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh margarita mix instead of frozen? Yes, but it may alter the consistency slightly. Ensure the mix is well-chilled.
- Is there an alternative to cilantro? Fresh parsley or basil offers a different but equally delicious herbal note.
- Can I prepare the skewers in advance? Certainly! Marinate the shrimp and assemble the skewers up to a day in advance, keeping them refrigerated.
- Why is cooking spray used? It helps prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill or griddle, ensuring easy flipping and removal.
