Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Tacos

Whenever I crave something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, I instantly think of Shrimp Tacos. It’s that kind of dish that transports you to a sunny beach with every bite. I remember the first time I tried these tacos at a food truck festival. The combination of the crunchy slaw and perfectly cooked shrimp left me utterly speechless. Since then, I’ve been determined to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. And trust me, it’s easier than you might think!

These Shrimp Tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. The juicy shrimp, the tangy pineapple slaw, and the warm tortillas all come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just looking for a quick dinner idea, these tacos are always a hit. The best part is that you can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them not only delicious but also personal.

Join me as I take you through the process of making these delightful Shrimp Tacos. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip them up, and I promise they’ll become a staple in your home just like they have in mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
5 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
25 g
Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Skillet, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Wooden Spoon

Why We Love This Shrimp Tacos

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

One of the reasons I adore Shrimp Tacos is the freshness they bring to the table. Using fresh ingredients, like crisp cabbage and juicy pineapple, not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful texture that’s hard to beat.

Easy to Prepare

These tacos are incredibly easy to make. In under thirty minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to go. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet satisfying!

Endless Customization

Another fantastic aspect of Shrimp Tacos is the ability to customize them. Whether you want to add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, the possibilities are endless!

A Healthy Choice

These tacos are a great way to enjoy seafood without the guilt. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, and pairing it with fresh veggies makes for a wholesome meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Lastly, Shrimp Tacos are versatile enough to be served at any occasion. From casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, they fit right in. Your guests will be impressed!

Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

Shrimp Tacos

When it comes to preparing Shrimp Tacos, the ingredients play a pivotal role in achieving the perfect flavor profile. Each element complements the others beautifully, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture.

  • 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple, chopped
  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
  • 12 tortillas (4-inch or street-sized, flour or corn)
  • Optional: sour cream, Mexican crema, salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, fresh lime, fresh cilantro

Preparation Steps for Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Tacos

Preparing Shrimp Tacos is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly they come together. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

  1. Start by placing the shredded cabbage, chopped pineapple, and finely chopped onion into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, honey, and fresh lime or lemon juice. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. This mixture will serve as your refreshing slaw, adding crunch and a sweet-tangy kick to your tacos. Once mixed, cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the shrimp.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when the shrimp hits the pan. As the oil heats up, take your shrimp and season them generously with salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Make sure each shrimp is nicely coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
  3. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Allow them to cook on one side for about 1 to 2 minutes. You should see them turning pink around the edges. This is an excellent time to start watching closely, as shrimp cooks quickly.
  4. Flip the shrimp over using tongs and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. You want the shrimp to be pink and opaque all the way through. Remove the skillet from heat as soon as they’re done, so they don’t overcook. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, and nobody wants that!
  5. While the shrimp rests, take your tortillas. Wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for about 1 minute or until warm. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and place them in a hot oven until pliable. Warm tortillas are essential for holding your Shrimp Tacos together and enhancing the overall experience.
  6. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Divide the chilled cabbage and pineapple slaw among the warm tortillas. Top each one generously with the cooked shrimp.
  7. Finally, feel free to add any optional toppings you desire, such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. These little extras can elevate your Shrimp Tacos and create an explosion of flavor in each bite.
  8. Serve your Shrimp Tacos immediately while they’re warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be pink and opaque.
  • Shred cabbage by hand: Shredding by hand results in better texture than using a blender, which can release too much water.
  • Warm tortillas: Always warm your tortillas before filling them. This ensures they’re soft, pliable, and won’t split when you eat them.
  • Customize your toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as guacamole, salsa, or even jalapeños for some heat!
  • Plan for leftovers: These tacos make great leftovers. Just store the components separately and reassemble when ready to eat.

Expert Tips about Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Tacos

Let’s dive into some expert tips that will help you master these Shrimp Tacos. With a little guidance, you can make this dish even more enjoyable!

  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store each component separately. Keep the slaw in an airtight container and refrigerate the cooked shrimp for up to two days.
  • Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing shrimp once cooked, as it can alter the texture. However, you can freeze the uncooked shrimp for up to three months.
  • Pairing: Serve these Shrimp Tacos with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.
  • Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce on top of your tacos.
  • Try different proteins: While shrimp is fantastic, consider trying grilled fish or chicken for a new twist on these tacos.

What to Pair With Shrimp Tacos

When it comes to serving Shrimp Tacos, the possibilities are endless! You can create a festive meal that everyone will love.

  • Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully.
  • Black Beans: Serve with seasoned black beans for a delightful and nutritious pairing.
  • Fresh Salad: A light salad with avocado and lime dressing adds a refreshing touch.
  • Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder makes a delicious side dish.
  • Guacamole and Chips: Start your meal with guacamole and tortilla chips for an extra treat.
  • Drinks: Pair with a refreshing non-alcoholic drink like a limeade or a coconut water.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Tacos. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for quicker thawing. Once thawed, pat them dry and follow the recipe as instructed. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious tacos even when you’re short on fresh ingredients!

For the best presentation, serve your Shrimp Tacos on a large platter and let guests assemble their own. Provide a variety of toppings such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and fresh herbs. This interactive approach makes the meal more fun and allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking!

Absolutely! You can prepare the slaw for your Shrimp Tacos a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to mingle and intensify, making each bite even more delicious when you’re ready to assemble your tacos.

If you use gluten-free tortillas, then yes, Shrimp Tacos can easily be made gluten-free. There are many excellent gluten-free tortilla options available in stores. Just check the labels and ensure you’re using a certified gluten-free product. Enjoy your tacos without any worries!

Conclusion

In summary, Shrimp Tacos are a delightful combination of fresh flavors and satisfying textures that can brighten any meal. They’re quick to prepare, making them perfect for any night of the week. I truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try and see just how easy it is to create a delicious dish at home.

So, gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy these tasty tacos together. Trust me, once you try them, they’re bound to become a regular favorite!

Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Tacos

The ultimate comfort food, these Shrimp Tacos are filled with fresh ingredients and vivid flavors. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, they combine juicy shrimp with tangy pineapple slaw, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Make them tonight and enjoy a taste of summer any day of the year!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups green cabbage shredded
  • 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chopped
  • ½ cup red onion finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
  • 12 tortillas tortillas 4-inch or street sized, flour or corn
  • sour cream Mexican crema, salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, fresh lime, fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Peeler
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by placing the shredded cabbage, chopped pineapple, and finely chopped onion into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, honey, and fresh lime or lemon juice. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. This mixture will serve as your refreshing slaw, adding crunch and a sweet-tangy kick to your tacos. Once mixed, cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the shrimp.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when the shrimp hits the pan. As the oil heats up, take your shrimp and season them generously with salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Make sure each shrimp is nicely coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
  3. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Allow them to cook on one side for about 1 to 2 minutes. You should see them turning pink around the edges. This is an excellent time to start watching closely, as shrimp cooks quickly.
  4. Flip the shrimp over using tongs and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. You want the shrimp to be pink and opaque all the way through. Remove the skillet from heat as soon as they're done, so they don’t overcook. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, and nobody wants that!
  5. While the shrimp rests, take your tortillas. Wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for about 1 minute or until warm. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and place them in a hot oven until pliable. Warm tortillas are essential for holding your Shrimp Tacos together and enhancing the overall experience.
  6. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Divide the chilled cabbage and pineapple slaw among the warm tortillas. Top each one generously with the cooked shrimp.
  7. Finally, feel free to add any optional toppings you desire, such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. These little extras can elevate your Shrimp Tacos and create an explosion of flavor in each bite.
  8. Serve your Shrimp Tacos immediately while they’re warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

Notes

  • Tip 1: If you have leftovers, store each component separately. Keep the slaw in an airtight container and refrigerate the cooked shrimp for up to two days.
  • Tip 2: It's best to avoid freezing shrimp once cooked, as it can alter the texture. However, you can freeze the uncooked shrimp for up to three months.
  • Tip 3: Serve these Shrimp Tacos with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce on top of your tacos.
  • Tip 5: While shrimp is fantastic, consider trying grilled fish or chicken for a new twist on these tacos.

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