These easy shrimp tacos are a fun and tasty meal! Juicy shrimp, crisp veggies, and a splash of lime come together in soft tortillas for a quick bite that’s sure to please.
They’re perfect for any night when you’re too tired to cook a big dinner. Plus, I always load mine with extra toppings—because who doesn’t love a taco mountain? 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are key for this dish. If you’re avoiding seafood, grilled chicken or even beans make great substitutes!
Olive Oil: This is perfect for cooking the shrimp, but you can swap it for avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed. Some people even like using flavored oils for an added twist!
Spices: Chili powder, paprika, and cumin add depth to the dish. Feel free to adjust these or use taco seasoning if you have it on hand. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the chili powder.
Tortillas: Corn is traditional, but flour tortillas are a nice soft alternative. Gluten-free wraps are perfect for those with dietary restrictions, and cauliflower tortillas can add a unique twist.
Fresh Ingredients: Avocado and cilantro brighten the tacos. If avocado isn’t ripe, you could use lettuce for crunch, and parsley is a good cilantro alternative if you’re not a fan.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp can be quick and easy, but it’s easy to overcook them! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes per side. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
- Avoid crowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed to allow steam to escape and get a nice sear.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time—no rubbery texture here!
How to Make Easy Shrimp Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 20 minutes to make delicious shrimp tacos that are fresh and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the shrimp are evenly coated with spices. This will give your shrimp great flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque—this means they’re cooked through and ready to enjoy!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp is cooking, you can warm the tortillas. Use another skillet or just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easy to fold and fill!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now for the fun part! Take 2-3 cooked shrimp and lay them in the center of each tortilla. Top with slices of avocado, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. You can be as generous as you like with the toppings!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the lime over the tacos for a zesty finish. Enjoy your tasty shrimp tacos with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they cook nicely.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you prefer, you can use other cooking oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil as a substitute for olive oil. Both will work well and won’t alter the flavor too much. Just ensure the oil has a high smoke point for best cooking results.
How Can I Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the shrimp separately from the tortillas and toppings. Place shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the tortillas, keep them in a sealed bag. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet until warmed through before assembling your tacos again.
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Tacos?
Of course! Feel free to customize your shrimp tacos with additional toppings such as shredded cabbage, diced jalapeños, sour cream, or hot sauce for an extra kick. You can mix and match according to your taste!
