Shrimp Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Tacos are quick to prepare, light yet satisfying, and bursting with vibrant flavors and textures. The shrimp cook in just minutes, making this an ideal dish for busy nights. With endless topping options—from creamy avocado to zesty slaw—these tacos are easy to customize and always a hit with family and guests.

Ingredients

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

shrimp (peeled and deveined)
olive oil
garlic (minced)
lime juice
chili powder
cumin
paprika
salt
pepper
corn or flour tortillas
optional toppings: shredded cabbage or slaw, avocado, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, sour cream, hot sauce

Directions

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
3. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
4. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp in tortillas and adding your favorite toppings such as slaw, avocado, cilantro, or sour cream.
5. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people (about 8 tacos).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Total time: 21 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
• Grilled Shrimp: Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill instead of pan-searing.
• Creamy Sauce: Mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice and hot sauce for a zesty drizzle.
• Baja Style: Add pickled onions, cotija cheese, and shredded cabbage for a street taco vibe.
• Tropical Twist: Top with pineapple or mango salsa for a sweet and spicy combination.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals.
Tortillas and toppings are best stored separately and assembled fresh when serving.
Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated after freezing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating and cooking.

What size shrimp should I use?

Medium or large shrimp work best for tacos—easy to eat but still satisfying.

Are shrimp tacos healthy?

Yes, they’re high in protein and can be made lighter with fresh veggies and minimal oil.

Can I make them ahead of time?

You can prep the toppings and marinate the shrimp ahead, but cook the shrimp fresh for best texture.

What tortillas are best?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well too—choose your preference.

Can I bake the shrimp?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make shrimp tacos dairy-free?

Skip cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives like avocado or vegan crema.

What sides go with shrimp tacos?

Great options include rice, black beans, chips and salsa, or a fresh corn salad.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but just warm them quickly with the seasoning mix—avoid overcooking.

How do I keep the tortillas from tearing?

Warm them before serving and stack with a double layer for added strength if needed.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant, fast, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, bold seasonings, and endless topping possibilities, they’re an easy way to bring variety and excitement to your dinner table. Fresh, customizable, and always delicious, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Shrimp Tacos

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Shrimp Tacos are a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender, spiced shrimp served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like slaw, avocado, and lime. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or a fast weeknight meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 8 tacos)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: shredded cabbage or slaw, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, sliced jalapeño, sour cream, hot sauce, lime wedges

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
3. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft.
4. Assemble tacos: divide shrimp among tortillas and top with desired toppings like slaw, avocado, cilantro, or sour cream.
5. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and firm.
• Prep toppings while the shrimp marinates to save time.
• Use corn tortillas for a more authentic taste, or flour tortillas for softer texture.
• Make a creamy taco sauce by mixing sour cream, lime juice, and a dash of hot sauce.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 170mg