Delicious and Easy-to-Make Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup guacamole
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and coat with the olive oil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all the shrimp is evenly coated with the spices.
  3. Place the spiced shrimp on the grill or skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and no longer translucent.
  4. While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the taco toppings. Slice the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, onions, and chop the cilantro.
  5. Warm the tortillas in the oven or on the stovetop until they are pliable.
  6. Assemble the tacos by layering the warm tortillas with the cooked shrimp, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and chopped cilantro.
  7. Add a spoonful of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa to each taco. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  8. Garnish each taco with a lime wedge. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tools for making

  • Grill or Skillet - To cook the shrimp
  • Mixing bowl - To combine the shrimp with spices
  • Tongs - To flip the shrimp while cooking
  • Knife - To slice the lettuce, dice the tomatoes and onions, and chop the cilantro
  • Cutting board - To provide a surface for cutting and chopping
  • Oven or Stovetop - To warm the tortillas
  • Spoon - To add sour cream, guacamole, and salsa to the tacos
  • Grater - To grate the cheese
  • Lime squeezer - To extract juice from the lime

Recipe variations

  • Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
  • Swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or fish for a different protein option.
  • Add some spice by including diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
  • Create a crunchy texture by adding crushed tortilla chips on top of the taco fillings.
  • Experiment with different toppings such as pickled red onions, sliced avocado, or sliced radishes.
  • Try a different sauce or dressing, such as chipotle mayo or avocado lime crema.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Incorporate different seasonings or marinades for the shrimp, such as Cajun seasoning or teriyaki sauce.
  • Make it a "baja-style" taco by serving with a cabbage slaw instead of lettuce.

Recipe overview

Get ready for a flavorful journey with these delicious Shrimp Tacos. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these tacos are filled with succulent, spiced shrimp and a variety of fresh, colorful toppings. The combination of crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, zesty onions, and aromatic cilantro, topped off with creamy guacamole, tangy sour cream, and spicy salsa, is a treat for your taste buds. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor and garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a citrusy finish. Warm, soft tortillas hold it all together to create a perfect bite every time. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, great for both novice and experienced cooks. In just a few steps, you'll have a meal that's sure to impress. So, let's get started on this culinary adventure!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
  2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. They will add a different flavor and texture to the tacos.
  3. Can I grill the shrimp instead of using a skillet? Absolutely! Grilling the shrimp will add a smoky flavor to the tacos. Just make sure to preheat the grill and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Can I substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt? Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt if you prefer a healthier option. It will still add a creamy element to the tacos.
  5. What can I use as a vegetarian alternative to shrimp? If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the shrimp with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
  6. Can I make the taco toppings ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the taco toppings ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. Just assemble the tacos when you are ready to serve.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Tacos, in their many shapes and forms, have a rich history steeped in the culinary traditions of Mexico. The concept of a taco predates the arrival of Europeans in Mexico, with evidence suggesting that indigenous people living in the lake region of the Valley of Mexico traditionally ate tacos filled with small fish. Over time, the simple taco has evolved and been reimagined in countless ways, with regional variations popping up all across Mexico and, eventually, the world. Shrimp tacos, in particular, are a specialty of the coastal regions of Mexico where seafood is plentiful. These delightful handheld meals represent a perfect blend of the country’s abundant seafood and its love for fresh, vibrant flavors. The vibrant mix of textures and flavors in a shrimp taco - the succulent shrimp, the tangy salsa, the creaminess of the guacamole - can transport you straight to a beachside taco stand in Baja California, with the sound of waves crashing in the background. Enjoying a shrimp taco is not just about savoring delicious food; it's about partaking in a culinary tradition that goes back centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.