Name: Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, or crumbled cotija cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chipotle or hot sauce (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how quick and vibrant these Shrimp Tacos are. They’re light yet packed with flavor, combining smoky shrimp, tangy lime, and creamy toppings for the ultimate bite. They’re also versatile—easy to make spicy, mild, or completely customized to your preferences. Plus, they’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy days.

Ingredients

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

Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Chili powder
Paprika
Cumin
Lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Corn or flour tortillas
Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, or crumbled cotija cheese

For the sauce (optional):

Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
Lime juice
Garlic powder
Chipotle or hot sauce (optional for heat)

Directions

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, mix the sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasoning or spice to taste.
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
Assemble the tacos by layering cabbage or slaw, shrimp, sauce, and toppings like avocado and cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings (8 tacos).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or use chipotle sauce for extra heat.
Grilled version: Grill shrimp on skewers instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
Low-carb: Serve shrimp over lettuce wraps or cauliflower tortillas.
Creamy: Add sliced avocado or drizzle extra lime crema on top.
Mango twist: Top with mango salsa for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Store the tortillas and toppings separately to keep them fresh. Avoid freezing cooked shrimp tacos, as the texture of shrimp can become rubbery once thawed.

FAQs

1. What kind of shrimp should I use?

Medium or large raw shrimp work best; just make sure they’re peeled and deveined before cooking.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking.

3. Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Absolutely—grilling adds great smoky flavor. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side.

4. What’s the best tortilla for shrimp tacos?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well too depending on your preference.

5. How can I make the tacos dairy-free?

Use dairy-free yogurt for the sauce or skip the cheese.

6. What sides go well with shrimp tacos?

Try rice, black beans, grilled corn, or a simple side salad.

7. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through—don’t overcook them.

8. How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warm them before serving and cover with a damp towel to keep them soft.

9. Can I meal prep shrimp tacos?

You can prep the slaw, sauce, and seasoning in advance. Cook the shrimp fresh for best texture.

10. What sauce pairs best with shrimp tacos?

A tangy lime crema, chipotle mayo, or avocado sauce pairs perfectly with the shrimp’s flavor.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos are a quick, vibrant, and satisfying meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. With tender, seasoned shrimp, crunchy slaw, and creamy sauce all wrapped in warm tortillas, every bite is a perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether for taco night or a light summer dinner, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Shrimp Tacos

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These Shrimp Tacos are fresh, zesty, and ready in just 20 minutes. Featuring juicy, seasoned shrimp with crisp slaw and creamy sauce wrapped in warm tortillas, they make a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for taco night or a light summer dinner.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (8 tacos)
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Seared
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Low Fat

Instructions

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
Assemble the tacos by layering shredded cabbage or slaw, shrimp, sauce, and toppings like avocado, cilantro, or cheese.
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Use fresh or thawed shrimp and pat dry before cooking for best results.
Adjust spice level by adding cayenne or using chipotle sauce.
Grill shrimp for a smoky flavor instead of pan-searing.
Keep tortillas warm and covered to prevent breaking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tacos
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 170mg