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Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos combine succulent, spiced shrimp with fresh, crunchy toppings and warm tortillas for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe balances spicy, tangy, and savory flavors with the ease of home cooking and customization options for every taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 lb fresh deveined, peeled shrimp
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 12 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Toppings

  • 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Fresh salsa or pico de gallo, about 1 cup
  • Sour cream or crema, about 1/2 cup
  • Optional: diced tomatoes, chopped onions

Shells

  • 8 soft corn or flour tortillas

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Diced avocado
  • Sliced radishes
  • Crumbled cotija or queso fresco cheese
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. In a bowl, toss shrimp with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and lime juice. Let them marinate briefly while preparing other ingredients.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and keep warm.
  3. Prepare the Toppings: Finely shred cabbage and chop cilantro. Prepare any additional toppings like tomatoes or onions. Mix or prepare creamy sauces such as sour cream or crema and fresh pico de gallo or salsa.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Gently warm tortillas on a dry skillet or wrap in foil and heat in the oven until soft and pliable.
  5. Assemble the Shrimp Tacos: Layer each warm tortilla with shredded cabbage, cooked shrimp, a drizzle of sour cream or crema, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and finish with salsa or pico de gallo. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture; cook until just opaque.
  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best bright flavor.
  • Warm tortillas properly to keep them soft and pliable.
  • Prepare all toppings ahead to speed up assembly.
  • Combine crunchy, creamy, and juicy elements for balanced flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, easy shrimp tacos, Mexican shrimp recipe, gluten free tacos, quick shrimp meal