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Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

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!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300

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.