Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp Tacos are a quick, flavorful, and vibrant meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining. With tender, seasoned shrimp, fresh toppings, and zesty sauces all wrapped in warm tortillas, each bite bursts with flavor and texture. They’re light yet satisfying and easy to customize with your favorite garnishes.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shrimp (peeled and deveined)olive oillime juicegarlic powdersmoked paprikachilicuminoregano saltsmall corn or flour tortillasshredded cabbage or slawfresh cilantroavocado or guacamolesour cream or Mexican crema (optional)fresh lime wedges (for serving)
directions
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, paprika, chili, cumin, oregano, and salt.
Let marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prep toppings.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
Assemble tacos by layering shrimp, cabbage, avocado, and your preferred toppings.
Drizzle with sour cream or crema, and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 tacos (serves 4).Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 10-15 minutesCooking time: 6-8 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
Use chipotle mayo or spicy aioli for heat.
Top with mango salsa or pineapple for a sweet twist.
Add pickled red onions for a tangy crunch.
Use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Swap shrimp with grilled fish, tofu, or chicken for variety.
storage/reheating
Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave just until warmed.Tortillas and toppings should be stored separately for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
What’s the best shrimp size?
Medium or large shrimp work well for tacos.
Are shrimp tacos spicy?
They can be mild or spicy depending on your seasoning—adjust chili to taste.
Can I grill the shrimp?
Absolutely, grilled shrimp adds a smoky flavor that’s perfect for tacos.
What toppings go best?
Cabbage, avocado, lime, cilantro, and crema are classics, but feel free to get creative.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, just omit the crema or use a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
Shrimp Tacos are a fun, delicious, and customizable meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting taco night or just craving something fresh and flavorful, these tacos are a sure hit that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Shrimp Tacos
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Shrimp Tacos are packed with juicy, seasoned shrimp, a crunchy slaw, and a creamy lime sauce, all wrapped in warm tortillas. They’re fast, flavorful, and perfect for taco night or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
-
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails off)
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
1/2 tsp cumin
-
1/2 tsp paprika
-
1/4 tsp garlic powder
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
Juice of 1/2 lime
For the Slaw:
-
2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
-
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lime Crema:
-
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
-
1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for richness)
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
1/4 tsp garlic powder
-
Pinch of salt
Extras:
-
8 small corn or flour tortillas
-
Diced avocado or guacamole (optional)
-
Hot sauce, for serving
-
Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and lime juice. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
Make the slaw:
In a medium bowl, mix the cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well and set aside.
Make the lime crema:
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and mayo (if using). Chill until ready to use.
Cook the shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Warm the tortillas:
Toast tortillas in a dry skillet or over a gas burner for 15–20 seconds per side until warm and slightly charred.
Assemble the tacos:
Spread some lime crema on each tortilla, add a scoop of slaw, top with shrimp, and add avocado or hot sauce if desired. Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
-
You can grill the shrimp instead of cooking them on the stovetop.
-
Swap shrimp with fish, chicken, or tofu for different variations.
-
Add pickled onions or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *