Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Weeknights in our household are often a whirlwind of activities, leaving little time for elaborate dinners. That’s why quick, flavorful, and satisfying meals are absolute lifesavers. These Shrimp Tacos have become a recent staple for us, and for good reason! From the moment the seasoned shrimp sizzles in the pan, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, to the first bite bursting with juicy shrimp, tangy slaw, and creamy avocado, these tacos are a complete delight. Even my picky eaters, who can sometimes be skeptical about seafood, devoured these with gusto, requesting seconds and even thirds! The jalapeño lime slaw adds a refreshing crunch and a zesty kick that perfectly complements the savory shrimp. What I love most is how easily customizable they are – you can adjust the spice level, add your favorite toppings, and have a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly tasty meal on the table in under 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a fast, fresh, and family-approved dinner option, look no further than these incredible shrimp tacos. They are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your rotation, just like they have in ours!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavorful Shrimp Tacos

This recipe utilizes a simple yet impactful ingredient list that focuses on fresh flavors and ease of preparation. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of textures and tastes in your shrimp tacos. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why they are essential for this recipe:

For the Star of the Show: The Shrimp

• 1 pound uncooked (31-40/pound size) shrimp thawed & peeled, tails removed: The shrimp is, of course, the hero of this dish. Using uncooked shrimp allows you to infuse it with the delicious spice blend, ensuring maximum flavor penetration. The 31-40 shrimp size refers to the count per pound, meaning you’ll get a good amount of shrimp per taco without being overwhelming. Thawing the shrimp completely is crucial for even cooking and preventing them from becoming watery. Peeling and removing the tails beforehand makes for a more enjoyable taco eating experience, allowing your guests to dive in without any extra work.
  • Choosing Your Shrimp: When selecting shrimp, consider both fresh and frozen options. Frozen shrimp is often frozen at peak freshness and can be a more budget-friendly and convenient option. If using frozen, ensure it’s properly thawed by placing it in a colander and running cool water over it or by thawing it overnight in the refrigerator. For fresh shrimp, look for firm, plump shrimp with a mild ocean smell. Avoid shrimp that smells fishy or ammonia-like.
  • Shrimp Size Variations: While 31-40 size is recommended, you can use slightly larger or smaller shrimp. If using larger shrimp, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through without becoming rubbery. Smaller shrimp will cook faster, so keep a close eye on them.

The Flavor Boosters: Spices and Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is used to cook the shrimp, providing a healthy fat base and preventing the shrimp from sticking to the skillet. Its mild flavor allows the spices to shine through. You can also use other neutral oils like avocado oil or canola oil if preferred.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Chili powder is a blend of dried chili peppers and other spices, lending a warm, slightly smoky, and subtly spicy flavor to the shrimp. It forms the backbone of the taco seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth and complexity to the shrimp. It complements the chili powder and enhances the overall savory profile. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used, but you’ll miss out on the distinct smoky note.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a convenient way to infuse the shrimp with garlic flavor. It blends seamlessly with the other spices and adds a pungent, savory element. Fresh minced garlic can also be used for a stronger garlic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin adds an earthy, warm, and slightly citrusy note to the spice blend. It’s a classic spice in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine and pairs beautifully with shrimp and chili powder.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors and bring balance to the dish. Season generously to taste, adjusting according to your preference.

The Refreshing Slaw: Crunch and Tang

• 1/2 cup mayo: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the slaw dressing, providing richness and binding all the ingredients together. Use your favorite type of mayonnaise, whether it’s full-fat, light, or even vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess to the slaw dressing, complementing the mayonnaise and balancing the sweetness of the cabbage. Greek yogurt can be substituted for a slightly tangier and lighter option. For a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream or coconut cream.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key to brightening up the slaw and adding a zesty, citrusy punch. It cuts through the richness of the mayo and sour cream and complements the other flavors perfectly. Lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch, but lime juice provides a more authentic taco flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt in the slaw dressing enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and balances the acidity of the lime juice.
• 3 cups finely shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix: Cabbage provides the essential crunch and texture to the slaw. You can use green cabbage, red cabbage, or a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience. Finely shredded cabbage ensures a delicate texture and allows the dressing to coat it evenly.
• 1/3 cup chopped red onions or to taste: Red onions add a pungent, slightly sweet, and sharp flavor to the slaw. They also provide a beautiful color contrast. Adjust the amount to your preference – some prefer a milder onion flavor, while others enjoy a more pronounced onion taste.
• 1 jalapeño pepper chopped finely: Jalapeño pepper brings a welcome heat and subtle fruity flavor to the slaw. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat, or leave them in for a spicier slaw. If you are sensitive to spice, you can start with half a jalapeño and taste before adding more, or substitute with a milder pepper like poblano for flavor without the heat.
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy flavor to the slaw, completing the flavor profile and adding a touch of freshness. If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley or omit it altogether.

For Serving: Completing the Taco Experience

• 8 medium corn tortillas: Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for tacos, offering a slightly nutty flavor and sturdy base to hold the fillings. Look for good quality corn tortillas, preferably fresh or locally made. Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute if preferred, but corn tortillas are generally considered more authentic for shrimp tacos.
• 1 large avocado chopped/sliced: Avocado adds a creamy richness and healthy fats to the tacos. Its smooth texture and mild flavor provide a wonderful contrast to the crunchy slaw and spiced shrimp. Chopping or slicing the avocado allows for easy topping and even distribution in the tacos.
• Lime wedges: Extra lime wedges are essential for serving alongside shrimp tacos. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating brightens up all the flavors and adds a final touch of zest and acidity.

Instructions: Crafting Delicious Shrimp Tacos Step-by-Step

Making these shrimp tacos is incredibly straightforward and quick, perfect for a busy weeknight. Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen:

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp – The Foundation of Flavor

• “Prep your shrimp. If they’re frozen, add them to a colander and run under cool water until thawed.” This first step is crucial for ensuring your shrimp cooks evenly and absorbs the flavorful spices. Frozen shrimp is a convenient and often economical option, but proper thawing is key. The quickest method is to place the frozen shrimp in a colander set in the sink and run cool water over them. Gently toss the shrimp occasionally to ensure even thawing. This process should take about 5-10 minutes, depending on the size and how densely packed the frozen shrimp are. You’ll know they are thawed when they are no longer hard to the touch and easily separate. Alternatively, you can thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator for a slower, more gradual thaw. Never thaw shrimp at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
• “Ensure the shrimp are peeled and tails removed.” This is mentioned in the ingredients, but it’s worth reiterating in the instructions. Peeling and removing the tails beforehand makes the tacos easier and more enjoyable to eat. If you purchased shrimp that is already peeled and deveined, you can skip this step. If you have shell-on shrimp, gently peel off the shells and remove the black vein running along the back of the shrimp (this is the digestive tract).

Step 2: Whip Up the Refreshing Jalapeño Lime Slaw – The Tangy Counterpoint

• “Meanwhile, add the slaw dressing ingredients (mayo, sour cream, lime juice, salt) to a fairly large prep bowl and mix together until smooth…” While the shrimp is thawing or if you’re using fresh shrimp, you can get started on the slaw. Using a large bowl provides ample space for mixing the dressing and then tossing in the cabbage and other slaw ingredients. Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and salt until the dressing is smooth and well combined. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed and the dressing is creamy and luscious.
• “…then add in the shredded cabbage, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro. Toss until coated.” Once the dressing is ready, add the shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix), chopped red onions, finely chopped jalapeño pepper, and roughly chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl. Use tongs or your hands to gently toss all the ingredients together until the cabbage and vegetables are evenly coated in the creamy dressing. Make sure to distribute the jalapeños and red onions evenly throughout the slaw.
• “Taste and adjust as needed.” This is a crucial step in any recipe! Taste the slaw and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Does it need more lime juice for extra tang? A pinch more salt to enhance the flavors? A bit more jalapeño for extra heat? This is your opportunity to customize the slaw to your personal preference. You can also add a touch of sugar or honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter slaw. Set the slaw aside in the refrigerator while you cook the shrimp to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to chill.

Step 3: Cook the Seasoned Shrimp to Perfection – The Savory Star

• “Add the olive oil and shrimp to a skillet and sprinkle with the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and some salt & pepper.” Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. A skillet with a wide surface area is ideal for cooking shrimp because it allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can steam the shrimp instead of searing them. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the thawed and prepped shrimp to the skillet in a single layer if possible. Sprinkle the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over the shrimp. The hot oil will help bloom the spices, releasing their aromas and flavors.
• “Cook over medium-high heat until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, flipping/stirring them occasionally (about 5 minutes).” Cook the shrimp over medium-high heat for approximately 5 minutes, flipping or stirring them occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. The shrimp will start to turn from translucent gray to opaque pink as they cook. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery and tough. They are cooked through when they are completely pink, opaque, and slightly firm to the touch. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp and the heat of your skillet, so keep a close eye on them. If you are unsure if they are cooked through, you can cut into one to check that it is no longer translucent in the center.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve – The Taco Finale

• “Serve with warmed tortillas, slaw, and avocado.” While the shrimp is cooking, warm your corn tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until softened and slightly charred in spots. Alternatively, you can microwave them briefly wrapped in a damp paper towel, or warm them directly over a gas stovetop flame for a slightly smoky flavor. Once the shrimp is cooked and the tortillas are warmed, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Place a generous spoonful of the jalapeño lime slaw on a warmed tortilla, top with a portion of the seasoned shrimp, and finish with slices or chunks of creamy avocado.
• “Lime wedges.” Don’t forget to serve the tacos with plenty of lime wedges! A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the tacos just before eating adds a final burst of freshness and acidity, tying all the flavors together and elevating the dish to another level.

Cook Mode Option:

• “Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark.” This is a helpful feature for anyone following the recipe on a digital device, preventing the screen from dimming or turning off while you are cooking. Simply activate the “Cook Mode” option (if available on your recipe platform) to keep your screen illuminated throughout the cooking process.

Nutrition Facts: A Balanced and Delicious Meal

While the exact nutritional content can vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (approximately 2 tacos):

• Servings: 8 tacos (4 servings of 2 tacos each) – This recipe is designed to serve approximately 4 people, with each person enjoying 2 delicious shrimp tacos. You can easily adjust the recipe quantities to serve more or fewer people.
• Calories per serving (2 tacos): Approximately 450-550 calories. This is an estimate and can fluctuate based on the type of mayonnaise, sour cream, and avocado used, as well as the size of the tortillas and the amount of toppings.
  • Macronutrient Breakdown (approximate per serving):
    • Protein: 25-30 grams – Shrimp is a lean protein source, contributing significantly to the protein content of these tacos.
    • Fat: 25-35 grams – This includes healthy fats from olive oil, avocado, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
    • Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams – Primarily from corn tortillas, cabbage, and onions.

Important Note: These are estimations only. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. These tacos offer a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making them a satisfying and relatively nutritious meal option. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and seafood.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

One of the best things about this shrimp taco recipe is its speed and ease. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy meal on the table in a hurry.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes – This includes thawing the shrimp (if using frozen), chopping the vegetables for the slaw, and mixing the slaw dressing. Efficient knife skills can help speed up the prep time.
• Cook Time: 10 minutes – The shrimp cooks incredibly quickly in just about 5 minutes, and warming the tortillas takes only a few minutes as well.
• Total Time: 30 minutes – From start to finish, you can have these flavorful shrimp tacos ready to enjoy in just half an hour! This makes them an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

How to Serve: Elevate Your Taco Experience

While these shrimp tacos are delicious as is, there are many ways to elevate your serving presentation and create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:

• Set up a Taco Bar: Make it a fun and interactive meal by setting up a taco bar! Arrange all the components – warmed tortillas, cooked shrimp, slaw, avocado, and various toppings – in separate bowls and let everyone assemble their own tacos to their liking. This is perfect for gatherings and allows for customization.
• Offer a Variety of Toppings: Beyond the avocado and lime wedges, consider offering a selection of other toppings to cater to different tastes and preferences. Some great additions include:
  • Pico de gallo: Freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños.
  • Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa, from mild to spicy.
  • Queso fresco or cotija cheese: Crumbled Mexican cheeses for a salty and cheesy element.
  • Shredded lettuce: Adds extra crunch and freshness.
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema: For extra creaminess.
  • Hot sauce: For those who like extra heat.
• Serve with Complimentary Sides: Round out your meal with some delicious side dishes that complement the shrimp tacos. Consider:
  • Mexican rice: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos.
  • Black beans or refried beans: Add extra protein and fiber to the meal.
  • Corn on the cob or grilled corn salad: Seasonal and flavorful side options.
  • Chips and guacamole or salsa: For a pre-taco appetizer or a side snack.
  • Elote (Mexican street corn): A flavorful and popular Mexican side dish.
• Pair with Refreshing Drinks: Choose beverages that complement the flavors of the tacos and slaw. Great drink pairings include:
  • Margaritas: Classic and always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Mexican beer: Light and refreshing, like Corona or Modelo.
  • Agua fresca: Fruity and hydrating, like watermelon or hibiscus agua fresca.
  • Limeade or lemonade: Non-alcoholic and refreshing options.
  • Iced tea: A simple and versatile choice.
• Presentation Matters: Even for a casual weeknight meal, a little presentation can go a long way. Arrange the tacos on a platter or individual plates, garnish with extra cilantro sprigs or lime wedges, and use colorful serving bowls for the toppings and sides. A visually appealing meal is always more enjoyable!

Additional Tips for Perfect Shrimp Tacos

To ensure your shrimp tacos are a resounding success, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: The biggest mistake you can make with shrimp is overcooking it. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. Cook the shrimp just until it turns pink and opaque, and is slightly firm to the touch. It should only take about 5 minutes, depending on the size. It’s better to slightly undercook than overcook, as they will continue to cook slightly even after you remove them from the heat.
2. Adjust the Spice Level to Your Preference: This recipe offers a mild to medium spice level with the chili powder and jalapeño. If you prefer spicier tacos, you can increase the amount of chili powder, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning, or use a spicier variety of jalapeño, like serrano peppers, in the slaw. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder and remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño, or use a milder pepper like poblano for flavor without the heat.
3. Make the Slaw Ahead of Time (But Not Too Far): The jalapeño lime slaw can be made up to a few hours ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for a little while allows the flavors to meld and deepen. However, don’t make it too far in advance (more than 4-5 hours), as the cabbage can start to soften and lose its crispness. If making ahead, store the slaw covered in the refrigerator.
4. Warm Your Tortillas Properly: Warming tortillas is crucial for improving their texture and flavor. Cold tortillas can be stiff and prone to cracking. Warming them softens them, making them more pliable and bringing out their nutty corn flavor. The best methods for warming tortillas include using a dry skillet, microwave, or directly over a gas flame. Keep warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or tortilla warmer to keep them warm and soft until serving.
5. Experiment with Different Shrimp Marinades: While the simple spice rub in this recipe is delicious, you can also experiment with different marinades to add even more flavor to your shrimp. Consider marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes to an hour in lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and a touch of olive oil before cooking. Or try a spicy marinade with chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. Marinades can add depth and complexity to the shrimp flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Shrimp Tacos

Here are some common questions people ask about making shrimp tacos:

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

A: While it’s best to use uncooked shrimp for the most flavorful results, you can use pre-cooked shrimp in a pinch. If using pre-cooked shrimp, skip the cooking step in the instructions. Simply toss the pre-cooked shrimp with the spice blend and gently warm them in a skillet with olive oil just until heated through. Be careful not to overheat pre-cooked shrimp, as they can become dry and rubbery.

Q2: I don’t like jalapeños. Can I omit them from the slaw?

A: Yes, you can definitely omit the jalapeño pepper from the slaw if you don’t like the heat. The slaw will still be delicious and refreshing without it. If you want a little bit of flavor without the spice, you can substitute with a milder pepper like poblano or bell pepper.

Q3: Can I make the slaw dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! To make the slaw dairy-free, you can easily substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream, coconut cream (the thick part from a chilled can), or a plant-based sour cream alternative. Ensure your mayonnaise is also dairy-free if needed (many vegan mayonnaises are readily available).

Q4: What kind of tortillas are best for shrimp tacos?

A: Corn tortillas are the traditional and most authentic choice for shrimp tacos. They offer a slightly nutty flavor and sturdy texture that holds up well to the fillings. Look for good quality corn tortillas, preferably fresh or locally made. Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute if preferred, but they are less traditional for this type of taco.

Q5: How should I store leftover shrimp tacos and slaw?

A: It’s best to store the leftover shrimp, slaw, and tortillas separately to prevent the tacos from becoming soggy. Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Store the slaw in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days as well, although the cabbage may lose some of its crispness over time. Warm the shrimp and tortillas separately before assembling fresh tacos. It’s generally recommended to assemble tacos fresh for the best texture and flavor.

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