Two Tequila Recipes to Upgrade Any Barbecue: The Ultimate Shrimp Appetizer and Cocktail

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Compensation was provided by Hornitos® via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author, Kari Herrera, and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Hornitos.

This morning, we tackled a common obstacle of apartment living with How to Throw the Ultimate Summertime Barbecue without a Grill. Now, we’re taking it a step further. Sure, it’s great not having to stand over an open fire for hours in the hot sun, but ensure your next bash goes far above the expected with more than just brats and beer.

Thanks to the folks at Hornitos®, I’ve been trying out some recipes using their tequila and trying my best to avoid any cocktail rimmed with salt, which is way too expected. Since we are smack dab inside of swimsuit season, I’ve also made sure to keep the calorie count down without sacrificing flavor. The result is an appetizer and drink pairing which won the gold from my friends and family. Try it and let me know what you think!

Tequila recipe

Appetizer: Tequila Shrimp

What you need

  • 2lbs of shrimp (shell can be left on or removed based on preference)

  • 4 tablespoons of olive oil

  • ½ cup of Hornitos® Plata Tequila

  • 1 cup of plain non-fat Greek yogurt

  • 3 jalapenos, sliced thin

  • Salt and pepper

What you do

  • Heat olive oil in cast iron or skillet for 1 minute. Do not allow it to smoke
  • Sauté shrimp one pound at a time over medium heat until pink (4 minutes)

  • Reduce heat and add ¼ cup of tequila. Light shrimp on fire using extreme caution!

  • Shake shrimp until fire dies down.

  • Pour shrimp into large glass bowl.

  • Repeat with last pound of shrimp (2 lbs total)

  • Pour second pound into same large glass bowl as first.

  • Mix with yogurt until evenly coated.

  • Add salt and pepper to taste.

  • Sprinkle with shaved jalapenos once served.

Tequila Recipe

Cocktail: Garnet Grove (from Hornitos)

What you need

2 Parts Hornitos Plata Tequila

½ Part Lemon Juice

1 Part Cranberry Juice

2 Dashes of Bitters

Orange Peel

What you do

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake vigorously and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange peel.

Hornitos® Tequila doesn’t settle for the status quo but believes in taking experiences to the next level with 100% agave tequila. Learn more about what makes us Not Just Any Tequila at www.hornitostequila.com and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Hornitos