Shrimp Tacos
These Shrimp Tacos are a quick and easy meal bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp are paired with crunchy cabbage slaw and creamy sauce wrapped in warm tortillas, creating a deliciously balanced dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Pinch of salt
Other Ingredients
- 6 soft corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced (or 1/4 cup creamy sauce of choice)
- Extra fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat the shrimp dry. Toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to evenly coat and infuse vibrant flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook to keep them juicy and tender.
- Make the Cabbage Slaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Toss well to create a crisp, refreshing slaw that adds crunch and tangy balance.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or over a low flame until pliable and aromatic to prevent tearing when adding the fillings.
- Assemble the Tacos: Layer each warm tortilla with a generous spoonful of cabbage slaw, add the cooked shrimp, then top with slices of avocado or a drizzle of creamy sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook shrimp; cook just until they turn pink.
- Toast tortillas to enhance their aroma and flexibility.
- Make the cabbage slaw ahead of time to save prep during dinner.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your heat preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
Keywords: shrimp tacos, easy shrimp recipe, quick dinner, Mexican tacos, gluten free tacos