These Easy Shrimp Tacos are quick, tasty, and perfect for a fun meal! Juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and zesty lime come together in a soft tortilla for a bite of deliciousness.
I love how you can get creative with toppings like salsa or avocado. It’s like a mini fiesta on your plate! 🌮 Who said tacos have to be complicated? Not me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor and texture. If you’re allergic or prefer not to use shrimp, try firm tofu or grilled chicken as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give the shrimp a nice kick. If you want it milder, cut back on the chili powder or use paprika only. Taco seasoning can also work as a blend substitution.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas have a lovely flavor that pairs well with shrimp, but flour tortillas are softer and easier to fold. If gluten-free is needed, look for rice tortillas or lettuce wraps.
Cabbage: Shredded cabbage adds crunch and freshness. You can use shredded lettuce or even coleslaw mix for convenience. I love the pop of color from purple cabbage too!
Avocado: It adds creaminess, but if you’re not a fan, try sour cream or yogurt for a different flavor. You could also use salsa for added zest.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is simple, but timing is crucial. Overcooked shrimp turns rubbery, so here’s what to do:
- Make sure shrimp are in a single layer in the skillet for even cooking.
- Cook for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They should form a “C” shape when cooked properly.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them beforehand for quick cooking. Pat them dry to help them sear instead of steam!
Easy Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp taco recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 5 minutes mixing up the shrimp seasoning and then just a few minutes cooking and assembling everything. It’s a quick meal that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated with the spices. This will give your shrimp a lovely flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. It’s so easy!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While your shrimp are cooking, you can warm the tortillas. You can do this in a separate skillet or directly over the flame of your stovetop, just until they’re soft and pliable. This step makes a big difference in the taste and texture!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put your tacos together! On each tortilla, start with a layer of shredded cabbage. Then, add a few pieces of the cooked shrimp. Next, pile on some avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and chopped red onion. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for extra flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finish up by serving your tacos with lime wedges on the side. Just squeeze some lime juice over the top before you take a bite for that extra zing! Enjoy your scrumptious shrimp tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The easiest way to do this is by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they cook evenly.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices Listed?
No problem! You can substitute the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika with a premade taco seasoning if you have it on hand. Just use about 3 tablespoons for the shrimp – it will still deliver great flavor!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, place the shrimp in one airtight container and keep the toppings (like cabbage, avocado, and tomato) in separate containers. This will maintain their freshness. Consume within 1-2 days for the best quality. Renowned rule: never store assembled tacos for later as they can get soggy!
Can I Make These Tacos Vegeterian?
Yes! You can easily replace the shrimp with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. Just season them with the same spices and follow the same cooking instructions for the best results!
