Citrus Mojo Marinade for Pork and Shrimp
Looking to elevate your grilled meats? This citrus mojo marinade recipe brings a burst of flavor that will completely transform your pork or shrimp dishes. The combination of fresh orange, lime, and garlic creates a vibrant base, while cumin adds a hint of warmth, making this marinade a must-try for your next cookout.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a marinade that not only infuses your proteins with delicious citrus notes but also keeps them tender and juicy. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, then this citrus mojo marinade is your new go-to solution.
Whether you’re prepping for a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this marinade is incredibly versatile and easy to make. Just a quick mix, and your meats will be ready to grill in no time!
Vibrant Citrus Mojo Marinade
The citrus mojo marinade is a lively concoction that embodies the essence of summer. Its vivid colors, showcasing bright orange and green hues, not only please the eye but also hint at the refreshing flavors within. The base of freshly squeezed orange and lime juice, combined with aromatic garlic and a touch of ground cumin, creates a marinade that is both zesty and fragrant.
Preparing this marinade is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add a burst of flavor to their grilled meats. The blend of citrus juices provides a tangy foundation, while the garlic infuses each bite with aromatic goodness. A sprinkle of cumin adds depth, rounding out the flavor profile beautifully.
Ingredients That Shine
This marinade is built on a few key ingredients that work harmoniously together. Fresh orange juice offers sweetness and acidity, while lime juice adds a sharper tang. Minced garlic is a crucial element that enhances the overall flavor, giving the marinade a savory punch.
Ground cumin introduces an earthy note that balances the bright citrus. Olive oil contributes to the marinade’s richness, ensuring that the meat remains tender and juicy during grilling. A pinch of salt and black pepper rounds out the seasoning, with optional fresh cilantro providing a hint of herbal freshness.
Preparation Made Easy
Creating the citrus mojo marinade is a simple process. Start by whisking together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, and spices in a bowl. This quick mix takes mere minutes, allowing you to focus on marinating your chosen protein.
Once combined, the marinade can be used right away. Pour it over pork or shrimp in a shallow dish or resealable bag, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. The marinating process is key, as it allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making every bite delicious.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
The length of time you marinate your meat can significantly impact the final result. For a quick flavor infusion, marinating for at least 30 minutes is sufficient. However, allowing the meat to soak in the citrus mojo marinade for up to two hours will yield even more pronounced flavors.
Remember to always discard leftover marinade after removing your protein, as it has been in contact with raw meat. This step is crucial for food safety, ensuring that your meal remains healthy and delicious.
Grilling to Perfection
Once your meat has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheating to medium-high heat is essential for achieving that perfect sear. Cooking times will vary based on the type and thickness of the meat, with shrimp typically taking around 6-8 minutes and pork needing about 15-20 minutes.
Grilling creates a beautiful caramelization on the outside, locking in the juicy flavors from the marinade. Allow your meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain moisture, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once your grilled pork or shrimp is ready, it can be served in various ways. Consider incorporating it into tacos, salads, or simply alongside grilled vegetables for a vibrant meal. The fresh flavors of the citrus mojo marinade will shine through in every dish.
Add a garnish of chopped cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor. This vibrant marinade not only elevates the taste of your proteins but also enhances the overall presentation of your summer dishes.
Citrus Mojo Marinade Recipe for Perfectly Grilled Pork or Shrimp
This citrus mojo marinade is a delightful blend of tangy orange and lime juice, aromatic garlic, and earthy cumin. It pairs beautifully with pork tenderloin or shrimp, adding layers of flavor that are both refreshing and appetizing.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Meat: Place your pork or shrimp in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the protein, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the meat from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Grill the pork or shrimp until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes for shrimp and 15-20 minutes for pork, depending on thickness.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
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