Shrimp Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Tacos are a flavorful, quick-to-make dish that brings together juicy shrimp, fresh toppings, and a zesty sauce wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, these tacos are light, refreshing, and packed with bold, coastal flavors that satisfy without feeling heavy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined)olive oilgarlic powderchili powdercuminpaprika saltblack pepperlime juicecorn or flour tortillasshredded cabbagesliced avocadofresh cilantrodiced tomatoes or pico de gallo sour cream or a creamy taco sauce

directions

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice until evenly coated.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat.

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.

Assemble the tacos by layering shredded cabbage, shrimp, avocado slices, diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, and fresh cilantro onto each tortilla.

Drizzle with sour cream or your favorite creamy taco sauce.

Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 tacos (serves 4).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Swap the shrimp for grilled fish or chicken for a different protein.

Add mango salsa or pineapple for a tropical twist.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter sauce.

Top with pickled red onions for extra tang and color.

Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapeños or a spicy chipotle sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
Assemble tacos fresh each time for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Are shrimp tacos spicy?

They have mild heat, but you can adjust spices to your taste.

What tortillas work best?

Either corn or flour tortillas are great—corn offers a more traditional flavor.

Can I grill the shrimp?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that’s perfect for tacos.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the shrimp and toppings in advance, but assemble just before serving.

Are shrimp tacos healthy?

Yes, they’re high in protein and can be light depending on toppings and sauces used.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, it’s recommended for better texture and taste.

How do I keep tortillas from falling apart?

Warm them before filling and avoid overstuffing.

Can I use lettuce instead of tortillas?

Yes, shrimp lettuce wraps are a great low-carb option.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos are a delicious, customizable dish that brings coastal vibes straight to your plate. With minimal prep and bold flavor, they’re perfect for taco night, summer gatherings, or a quick and tasty dinner any day of the week. Dive in and enjoy the zesty, satisfying goodness of shrimp tacos today!

Print