Shrimp tacos offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a perfect choice for any meal, from casual weeknights to festive gatherings. This recipe will guide you through creating succulent shrimp tacos with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients for Ultimate Shrimp Tacos
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
For the Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple or a mix)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
For the Optional Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Ultimate Shrimp Tacos
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
1.1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
1.2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
1.3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
1.4. Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp and toss to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Slaw:
2.1. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
2.2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, and mayonnaise. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
2.3. Season the slaw with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
3.1. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are pliable and slightly charred.
3.2. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
4.1. Place a warm tortilla on a plate.
4.2. Add a few shrimp to the center of the tortilla.
4.3. Top with a generous portion of the prepared slaw.
4.4. Add slices of avocado and diced tomatoes.
4.5. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
4.6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
4.7. Drizzle with the optional sauce, if desired, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
5. Optional Sauce (if using):
5.1. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and Sriracha or hot sauce. Mix well.
5.2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5.3. Serve the sauce alongside the tacos for drizzling.
About the Main Ingredients
Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp is not only delicious but also quick to cook. Shrimp adds a succulent texture and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold spices used in this recipe. When selecting shrimp, look for fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience.
Cabbage Slaw: The slaw adds a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the tender shrimp. Cabbage is high in fiber and vitamins, making it a healthy choice. Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, while cilantro brings a fresh and herby note.
Tortillas: Tortillas serve as the base for the tacos and can be made from corn or flour. Corn tortillas offer a more authentic flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Either option works well with the shrimp and slaw.
Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and a smooth texture to the tacos. It also complements the spice of the shrimp and the tanginess of the slaw.
Optional Sauce: The optional sauce is a creamy and tangy addition that enhances the flavor of the tacos. It combines the richness of sour cream and mayonnaise with the zesty kick of lime and the heat of Sriracha.
This recipe for shrimp tacos is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
