Shrimp tacos are a crowd-pleasing favorite for their vibrant flavors and quick preparation. Succulent shrimp, seasoned to perfection, combine with fresh toppings and a creamy lime sauce to create a taco night you won’t forget. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Lime Crema:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt (to taste)
Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño (sliced, optional)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Preparation
Prepare the Lime Crema
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic.
- Season with a pinch of salt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Season and Cook the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss them in a bowl with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until warm and pliable. You can also warm them in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Assemble the Tacos
- Spread a spoonful of lime crema on each tortilla.
- Top with cooked shrimp, shredded red cabbage, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño slices, and avocado.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning.
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Grill the shrimp on skewers instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
- Mango Salsa Tacos: Top the tacos with a sweet and spicy mango salsa instead of red onion.
Cooking Note
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can turn rubbery. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
- Use fresh lime juice for the crema to ensure the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these tacos with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
- Serve with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer.
- Offer a variety of hot sauces on the side to let guests customize their heat level.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp for 10-15 minutes in the spice mixture before cooking.
- Use pre-shredded cabbage or a coleslaw mix for quicker preparation.
- Double the lime crema recipe to use as a dip for chips or drizzle on other dishes.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)**
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sodium: 360mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking.
What tortillas are best for shrimp tacos?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well. Choose based on your preference—corn is more traditional, while flour is softer and more pliable.
How do I make shrimp tacos dairy-free?
Substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise in the lime crema with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt or a vegan mayo.
Conclusion
Shrimp tacos with lime crema are a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or hosting taco night, these tacos are sure to impress. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of coastal-inspired cuisine at home!