I have crafted a version of Mexican Shrimp Tacos that brings together succulent shrimp seasoned with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder and lime juice, paired with crisp cabbage and diced avocado. I used olive oil and fresh cilantro to add extra brightness, ensuring every bite offers pure, unadulterated flavor.

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I’ve been playing around in the kitchen lately and stumbled upon a flavor combo that blew my mind. Let me tell you about these easy shrimp tacos that are totally next level.

I started with a pound of large shrimp, giving them a quick sizzle in olive oil with a good sprinkle of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, along with salt and pepper. Then, I squeezed in the juice of a whole lime which really brightened up the dish.

I also tossed together a slaw with shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, diced red onion and a bit of jalapeno for some heat. When it’s time to serve, I top everything off with some creamy diced avocado and line up warm tortillas, letting you add extra lime wedges and even a drizzle of sour cream if you fancy.

This recipe is a fresh twist on taco shrimp, and I think it’s one of the best shrimp tacos you’ll try. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe because the flavors just explode in your mouth. I mean, the tanginess of the lime mixed with the heat from the chili powder and cumin makes every bite super flavorful. The shrimp come out perfectly seasoned every time and I love how that zesty taste matches so well with the crunchy cabbage slaw.

I also appreciate that this recipe is really simple and fast to put together. Even when I’m in a rush, I can easily whip up these tacos and still enjoy an amazing meal that doesn’t feel heavy or overly fancy.

Plus, the mix of fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and the optional jalapeno makes it feel really healthy and refreshing. It gives me that fun, bright vibe that I love about a good taco night, and I feel like I’m eating something that’s both good for me and totally tasty.

Ingredients

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Large shrimp: High-quality protein, low fat, and slightly sweet taste, perfect for a light meal.
Olive oil: Healthy fat that helps sear shrimp with a smooth, rich flavor every time.
Lime juice: Crisp, sour acidity brightens the dish and adds a burst of vitamin C.
Cabbage: Crunchy, fiber-packed vegetable offering refreshing texture and a hint of natural sweetness.
Cilantro: Fragrant herb that gives a fresh, citrusy kick for an extra flavor boost.
Avocado: Creamy fruit providing healthy fats, rich texture, and a slightly buttery note.
Tortillas: Soft carbohydrates that serve as a versatile base for all the tasty fillings.

Ingredient Quantities

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/4 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Juice of 1 lime

2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1/4 cup diced red onion

1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped (optional)

1 ripe avocado, diced

8 small corn or flour tortillas

Extra lime wedges for serving

Sour cream or crema to drizzle (optional)

How to Make this

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1. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the juice of one lime.

2. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

3. Meanwhile, mix the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and finely chopped jalapeno (if using) in another bowl. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little extra lime juice if you like it zesty.

4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp in a single layer.

5. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.

6. While the shrimp is cooking, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they’re pliable.

7. Dice the avocado and keep it ready for serving.

8. Assemble the tacos by placing a scoop of the cabbage slaw on each tortilla.

9. Top the slaw with a few cooked shrimp and then add a generous sprinkle of diced avocado.

10. Drizzle sour cream or crema over the top if you want, squeeze an extra lime wedge over it, and enjoy your fresh and tasty cilantro lime shrimp tacos!

Equipment Needed

1. One medium bowl for tossing the shrimp with the marinade
2. One separate bowl for mixing the cabbage slaw
3. A sharp knife for chopping the cilantro, red onion, jalapeno, and dicing the avocado
4. A cutting board to prep all your veggies
5. A skillet to cook the shrimp and another option for warming the tortillas or you can use the microwave with a microwave-safe plate
6. A spatula or tongs for flipping and handling the shrimp
7. A citrus juicer or reamer for getting the lime juice out of the lime

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning so they cook evenly.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking? The shrimp will turn pink and become firm. They only need a few minutes on each side so be careful not to overcook them or they'll turn rubbery.

Can I substitute the shredded cabbage? You can use lettuce if you dont have cabbage but keep in mind it wont give you the same crunch and flavor the cabbage does.

What type of tortilla is best for these tacos? Corn tortillas are most traditional but flour tortillas work too if you prefer a softer texture.

Can I add other toppings for extra flavor? Totally! You can add hot sauce, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of queso fresco if youd like a little more kick.

Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If youre not into shrimp, you could try using scallops or firm white fish as a tasty alternative.
If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or even canola oil will do just fine.
Instead of chili powder, mix some smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne pepper to get a similar kick.
Not a fan of jalapeno heat? Swap it out for green bell pepper or just use a small sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
For a healthier twist on sour cream, plain Greek yogurt makes a great alternative.

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to make your tacos even tastier:

1. Make sure you dont overcook the shrimp. Overcooking makes them kinda rubbery, so keep an eye on them while they cook so they stay nice and tender.
2. Let the shrimp sit in that spice mix for at least 10 minutes. That extra time really helps the flavors sink in, and if you want an even tangier kick, squeeze in a bit more lime juice.
3. Try warming up the spices in a dry pan before tossing them with the shrimp. It might seem like an extra step, but it brings out a deeper flavor in the taco seasoning.
4. Don’t forget to warm your tortillas properly. If they arent warm enough, they may crack or feel dry, so just heat them for a short while in a skillet or microwave until theyre soft and ready to hold all your yummy fillings.