Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Name: Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Avocado slices (optional); Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy these delicious shrimp tacos, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:25:18.105Z

These shrimp tacos are a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The shrimp is seasoned perfectly and paired with a zesty slaw that brings a refreshing crunch. Ideal for taco night or any casual gathering, these tacos are sure to please your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
Fresh and vibrant flavors with every bite
Customizable toppings to suit your taste

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When your schedule is packed but you still want to enjoy a homemade meal, these shrimp tacos are the ideal solution. In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious dish on the table that satisfies everyone. The quick preparation time means you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings with friends.

Not only are these tacos quick to make, but they are also incredibly satisfying. The plump, juicy shrimp combined with the crunchy slaw creates a delightful contrast that will keep your taste buds excited. Plus, with a variety of toppings to choose from, each taco can be customized to suit your personal cravings.

Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients

One of the best things about these shrimp tacos is the freshness of the ingredients. Using fresh shrimp ensures that your tacos are not only tasty but also nutritious. Shrimp is a great source of protein and is low in calories, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

The vibrant slaw made from shredded cabbage, tomatoes, and cilantro adds a refreshing crunch to each bite. Tossed with lime juice, the slaw brightens the flavors of the dish and introduces a zesty twist that complements the shrimp beautifully. This balance of flavors is what makes these tacos stand out.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the standout features of these shrimp tacos is their versatility. You can easily adjust the toppings to cater to different dietary preferences or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Whether you prefer creamy avocado slices, spicy salsa, or a dollop of sour cream, these tacos can be tailored to fit any palate.

This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients, such as adding jalapeños for heat or swapping the slaw for a fresh mango salsa. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to enjoy a different version of shrimp tacos each time you make them.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your shrimp tacos:

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Slaw

2 cups shredded cabbage
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

For Assembly

8 small corn tortillas
Avocado slices (optional)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious shrimp tacos:

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Make the Slaw

In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss until well combined.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with slaw, and add any optional toppings like avocado or sour cream.

Serve

Enjoy your shrimp tacos immediately while they're fresh!

Now that your tacos are ready, gather your friends and enjoy this wonderful meal!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Cooking shrimp might seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before, but it’s actually quite simple. The key is to avoid overcooking; shrimp should be cooked just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain tender and juicy.

If you prefer a bit of a char, consider grilling the shrimp! Skewering them and grilling can add a delightful smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh toppings. Just be sure to watch them closely, as they can cook quickly over high heat.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp tacos are best served immediately while the shrimp are warm and the tortillas are soft. Pair them with a side of chips and fresh salsa for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. A chilled beverage, such as a margarita or a refreshing iced tea, can complement the bright flavors beautifully.

For a more substantial dinner, consider serving the tacos alongside a simple salad or grilled vegetables. This adds a healthy balance to your meal while keeping the focus on the delicious tacos. Don't forget to set out extra toppings so everyone can customize their own tacos!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it's best to warm the shrimp on a skillet to maintain their texture rather than using the microwave, which can make them rubbery.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the shrimp until warmed through and assemble them on fresh tortillas. This way, you'll have a quick and tasty meal ready to go without any fuss!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for corn tortillas?

You can use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

→ How can I make the slaw spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slaw for some extra heat.

→ Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the shrimp in advance and cook them just before serving.