Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

There’s something truly magical about summer evenings filled with the aroma of fresh grilled food. That’s when I often whip up these Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos. The combination of juicy, perfectly grilled shrimp, vibrant toppings, and creamy cotija cheese creates an explosion of flavor that dances on your palate. Every bite reminds me of sun-drenched days spent by the beach, with laughter echoing in the background and the sound of waves crashing nearby. Tacos are a universal love language, and these ones bring everyone to the table, ready to share in the joy of good food and great company. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a celebration with friends, these tacos have a way of bringing everyone together. I can almost hear the chatter and see the smiles around the table as we savor every single bite.

What to Buy for Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for making delicious Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos. Each element plays a significant role in creating the ultimate balance of flavors and textures. The combination of fresh seafood, colorful vegetables, and zesty seasonings brings these tacos to life, making them a delightful treat any day of the week.

• 1 pound raw shrimp: The star of the dish. Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: Essential for marinating the shrimp and adding richness.
• Juice + zest of 1 lemon: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the shrimp.
• Juice + zest of 1 lime: Enhances the freshness of the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
• 2 cloves garlic: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder: A hint of heat that adds a layer of complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 cup watermelon: Adds a refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp.
• 6-8 flour or corn tortillas: The perfect vessel for holding all the delicious fillings.
• Quinoa or rice: A hearty addition to the tacos, making them more filling.
• Fresh cilantro and basil: For garnish and an added burst of freshness.
• 1/2 cup Cotija cheese: A creamy, salty cheese that adds richness; feta can be used if needed.
• 1 ear grilled corn: Sweet and smoky, it’s an essential taco topping.
• 1 avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• 1 jalapeño: For those who enjoy a little extra spice, diced and ready to go!
• 1/4 cup basil: A fragrant herb that enhances the flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup cilantro: For a fresh, herbal note.
• Juice of 1/2 a lime: For that final zing of freshness.

Preparation Steps for Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Preparing these Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos is an enjoyable experience that brings the kitchen to life. The process is straightforward, allowing you to feel accomplished as you create something wonderful. Let’s dive into the steps, and you’ll see how easy it is to bring this delicious dish to your table!

1. Start by placing the shrimp in a large bowl. Pour in the olive oil, followed by the juice and zest of 1 lemon and 1 lime. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, cumin, and salt. Toss everything together until the shrimp is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for 15 to 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
2. While the shrimp marinates, let’s make the corn salsa. In another bowl, combine the crumbled Cotija cheese, the kernels from the grilled corn, diced jalapeño, basil, cilantro, and the lime juice. Gently toss everything together to ensure even mixing. This salsa will add freshness to your tacos!
3. Once the shrimp has marinated, heat your grill or grill pan to high. If using skewers, thread the shrimp onto them; if not, you can use a grilling basket to keep them from falling through the grates. This is where the magic happens!
4. Grill the shrimp for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re looking for light char marks to appear, indicating they are perfectly cooked and flavorful. If you have any leftover marinade, feel free to brush some of it over the shrimp once you place them on the grill for added moisture and flavor.
5. After grilling, remove the shrimp from the grill. If desired, a squeeze of additional lemon and lime juice can enhance the taste even more. Finish with a sprinkle of basil and cilantro for freshness.
6. Now, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Start by spreading a layer of warmed quinoa or rice inside each tortilla. Add a generous amount of the grilled shrimp on top, followed by the fresh watermelon and the vibrant corn salsa. Don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro and basil to take the flavor to the next level.
7. Finally, it’s time to enjoy your creation! Fold the tortillas over the fillings and take a big bite! The combination of flavors will surely have you coming back for more.

Helpful Hints

Here are some valuable tips to enhance your experience while making Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos. Each of these suggestions can help you achieve the best results while enjoying the process!

• Storage: Store any leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess in the tortillas.
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated shrimp for up to three months; just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: These tacos are fantastic with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Make-ahead: Prepare the salsa and marinade for the shrimp ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to grill.
• Serving Style: Consider serving the shrimp on a large platter for a family-style meal, allowing everyone to build their own tacos.

What to Pair With Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

• Quinoa or Rice: These provide a hearty base for your tacos, making them more filling and satisfying.
• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of colorful grilled vegetables adds freshness and crunch, enhancing your meal.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can complement the tacos nicely and adds a refreshing element.
• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is always a fantastic accompaniment to tacos, adding extra flavor and texture.
• Chips and Salsa: For a fun appetizer, serve some crispy tortilla chips with a zesty salsa on the side to get everyone in the taco mood!
• Seasonal Occasions: These tacos are perfect for summer gatherings, festive barbecues, or even a relaxed weeknight dinner.
• Drink Pairing: Consider serving these tacos with a refreshing non-alcoholic drink like homemade lemonade or a fruity mocktail.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that make them truly special. They’re perfect for gatherings or a quick family dinner, bringing a taste of summer to your table any time of the year. I encourage you to try making these tacos; they’re sure to become a favorite in your household!

Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Craving something fresh and flavorful? These Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos are bursting with juicy grilled shrimp, sweet corn, and creamy cotija cheese, making them the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Enjoy a bright and zesty culinary experience that everyone will love!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound raw shrimp peeled + deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 whole lemon juice + zest
• 1 whole lime juice + zest
• 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup watermelon diced
• 6-8 whole flour or corn tortillas warmed
• 1 cup quinoa or rice for serving
• 1/2 cup Cotija cheese crumbled (may sub feta cheese)
• 1 ear grilled corn kernels removed
• 1 whole avocado diced
• 1 whole jalapeño seeded + diced
• 1/4 cup basil chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
• 1/2 whole lime juice

Equipment

• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Add the shrimp to a bowl. Add the olive oil, juice + zest of 1 lemon, juice + zest of 1 lime, garlic, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, cumin, and salt. Toss well and let the shrimp sit for 15-30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, make the salsa. In a bowl, combine the Cotija cheese, corn, jalapeño, basil, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss to combine. Gently stir in the diced avocado. Cover and store in the fridge until ready to serve.
3. Heat a grill or grill pan to high. Thread the shrimp on skewers if using an outdoor grill (or use a grilling basket). Once hot, grill the shrimp for 3-4 minutes per side or until light char marks appear. I like to brush some of the marinade left in the bowl over the shrimp when I first put the shrimp on.
4. Once done cooking, remove the shrimp from the grill and if desired squeeze with a little lemon and lime juice. Sprinkle with basil + cilantro.
5. To serve, spread a little quinoa or rice inside each warmed tortilla. Add the watermelon and shrimp. Top with salad and garnish with cilantro. Eat!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess in the tortillas.
• Tip 2: You can freeze marinated shrimp for up to three months; just ensure it's well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Tip 3: These tacos are fantastic with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Prepare the salsa and marinade for the shrimp ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to grill.
• Tip 5: Consider serving the shrimp on a large platter for a family-style meal, allowing everyone to build their own tacos.

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Meet Diana Foster

I appreciate the beauty of a well-made meal, but I also value simplicity. I’m always looking for that perfect balance of big flavor and low stress. I developed this recipe to be reliable, tasty, and perfect for your daily rotation.