This Cuban Mojo Shrimp is packed with zesty flavors! Juicy shrimp soak in a tangy mix of garlic, citrus, and spices that make every bite burst with goodness.
Cooking this dish feels like a mini vacation! Just marinate the shrimp and then sauté until they’re perfectly tender. You’ll want to serve it with rice to soak up all that tasty sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp give a great texture, but you can use medium or large shrimp if that’s what you have. Frozen shrimp also works well, just ensure they are completely thawed before marinating.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really shines in this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. I love using a garlic press for an easy mincing.
Citrus Juices: Fresh lime and orange juice add zing. For a cozy twist, try substituting with lemon juice for the lime or using grapefruit juice for something different. Just keep the balance of sour and sweet!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the flavor greatly, but if you’re not a fan, you could use parsley or omit it completely. I sometimes use a pinch of dried cilantro when fresh isn’t available!
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are must-haves for flavor. If you don’t have them, a dash of taco seasoning can work in a pinch. Keep an eye on the salt, adjusting according to your taste.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky – you want to avoid overcooking! Here’s a foolproof method:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them sear nicely.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They turn pink and opaque when done, which is key to know.
- If in doubt, take out a shrimp and cut it open to check; they should be firm, not rubbery.
- Give them a quick baste with the marinade while cooking for extra flavor!
Once cooked, remove them promptly from the heat. Enjoy your meal over rice or quinoa for a complete dish!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime or lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes for marinating. After that, it cooks up in just 6-7 minutes! So, expect to enjoy this dish in about 45 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mojo Marinade:
In a good-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. This marinade is where all the amazing flavor comes from!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around gently to ensure each shrimp is coated in that tasty mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors soak in.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to cook! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the shrimp along with the marinade. Be sure not to leave any of that delicious marinade behind!
4. Sauté the Shrimp:
Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Make sure to baste the shrimp with the sauce while they cook for extra flavor. It’s so quick and easy!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top of the shrimp for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lime or lemon wedges on the side. This dish is perfect over a bed of steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or alongside some black beans for a complete meal!
And there you have it! A vibrant and flavorful Cuban Mojo Shrimp that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place the sealed shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes for a quicker option.
Can I Make the Mojo Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mojo sauce in advance! Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to use it, simply marinate the shrimp, and cook as directed!
What Can I Serve with Cuban Mojo Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa, as they soak up the delicious mojo sauce. You can also serve it alongside black beans, a fresh salad, or even in tacos for a fun twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove for the best texture, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to keep them moist.
