Best Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with the ultimate flavor fiesta: my spicy shrimp tacos, packed with fresh and zesty ingredients that will make your taste buds dance with joy!

I love making fast, flavorful meals, and these shrimp tacos are a top choice. They use fresh, deveined shrimp that are mixed with smoky chili powder, cumin, and paprika, ensuring a satisfying, tasty dish.

And if that wasn’t enough, crunchy cabbage and creamy avocado add to the nutrition and to the irresistible nature of these tacos.

Best Shrimp Tacos Recipe Ingredients

• Shrimp: High in protein, low in calories, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat that enhances flavor and aids in nutrient absorption.
• Chili Powder: Adds a spicy kick; rich in antioxidants for immune health.
• Cumin: Aromatic spice, aids digestion and boasts anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides smoky depth, contains vitamin A for vision health.
• Avocado: Creamy texture, high in healthy fats and a good source of fiber.
• Fresh Cilantro: Brightens flavor; contains antioxidants and supports detoxification.
• Lime: Adds tanginess; high in vitamin C for immune support.

Best Shrimp Tacos Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)

How to Make this Best Shrimp Tacos Recipe

1. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, and seasonings: chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.

2. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the well-seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are fully cooked and no longer transparent. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, fresh lime juice, and honey. Whisk them together until smooth. Set the bowl aside.

4. Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or until they are flexible and have a light char. An alternative is to wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.

5. To put together the tacos, start by laying down a layer of shredded cabbage on each tortilla.

6. Place a handful of cooked shrimp atop the cabbage.

7. Squeeze the lime-flavored sour cream sauce over the shrimp in each taco.

8. Slice the avocado and layer it on top of each taco. Add a sprinkle of chopped, fresh cilantro.

9. If desired, to each taco add sliced jalapeño to provide extra heat.

10. Lime wedges are to be served along with the tacos for squeezing over the top, and then enjoy!

Best Shrimp Tacos Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium bowl
2. Large skillet
3. Small bowl
4. Whisk
5. Dry skillet
6. Spatula or tongs (for flipping tortillas)
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
9. Measuring spoons
10. Paper towel (optional, for microwave method)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?A: Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas, if you prefer their texture, though it may change the traditional taste ever so slightly.
• Q: How can I store leftover shrimp tacos?A: Keep the shrimp, cabbage, and sauce in the refrigerator, each in its own airtight container, for up to 2 days. Just before eating, put together the tacos.
• Q: Is it necessary to use smoked paprika?A: Smoked paprika gives a taste that goes deep, but if you can’t find it, regular paprika can stand in for it.
• Q: How can I make the tacos spicier?A: For additional heat, you can add more sliced jalapeños or incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper in the shrimp seasoning.
• Q: Can I grill the shrimp instead of cooking them on the stove?A: Of course! Adding grilled shrimp to the tacos is an incredible idea. They take on a nice smoky flavor, which just lights up the tacos. Just handle them like you would any shrimp: marinate them in a little acid (lemon or lime juice) and some seasonings, then grill them on medium heat until they’re opaque and cooked through. They are so good!
• Q: Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce?A: Yes, you can swap out sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a vegan yogurt option.

Best Shrimp Tacos Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Avocado oil or coconut oil can be used in place of olive oil while still achieving a nearly identical texture and flavor that is right in line with the neutral base you want.
Chili powder: For a somewhat different spice profile, try using chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
Cilantro: If you don’t like cilantro, substitute with parsley for a milder flavor.
Guacamole can take the place of avocado, or you can skip this item if you don’t have any and another substitute isn’t available.
Corn tortillas can be substituted with flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate the Shrimp Longer For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the shrimp more deeply.

2. Char the Tortillas Instead of just heating the tortillas, you can grill them over an open flame on your stove or a grill for a few seconds on each side to give them a nice char and enhance their flavor.

3. Use Fresh Lime Juice Generously Squeeze some extra fresh lime juice over the cooked shrimp just before assembling the tacos for a burst of fresh citrus flavor that brightens the dish.

4. Add a Crunchy Element Toast some pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and sprinkle them over the tacos for an added crunchy texture that complements the softness of the shrimp and avocado.

5. Customize the Heat If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or use a hot sauce drizzle on top of the tacos to suit your heat preference.