These easy shrimp tacos are a hit with everyone! Juicy shrimp come together with crunchy veggies, wrapped up in soft tortillas. They’re fresh, fun, and ready in no time!
Who doesn’t love tacos? I often make them for a quick dinner, and they’re perfect for adding your favorite toppings like salsa or avocado. Yum!
I love how simple these shrimp tacos are to whip up. Just season the shrimp, cook them quickly, and load ’em up—less time in the kitchen means more time to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works perfectly! If using frozen, make sure to thaw them first. For a change, you could swap shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika bring great flavors. If you want less heat, use mild paprika instead of spicy. You can also try taco seasoning for faster prep!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are more traditional, but flour tortillas are softer and easier to handle. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas are your best bet. You could also use leaf lettuce for a lighter option.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess. If it’s not in season, use a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream as a creamy alternative.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key, but if you’re not a fan (or can’t find it), parsley can offer a fresh flavor too!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Without Overcooking It?
Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky, but here are some quick tips to keep it tender:
- Start with medium-high heat. This helps to sear the shrimp quickly.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that lovely pink color and opaque center.
- Remove shrimp from the heat as soon as they are done! Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery.
Also, make sure your shrimp are spread out in the skillet. Crowding the pan will steam them instead of sear them, which could affect the texture.
Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together, making sure the shrimp are well coated with the spices. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them, so they cook perfectly without getting tough!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp is cooking, it’s a great time to warm your tortillas. You can do this by placing them on another pan for a few minutes until heated through, or wrapping them in foil and putting them in a warm oven. This step makes a big difference in enjoying your tacos!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Take a warm tortilla and add a few shrimp to the center. Top them with slices of avocado, diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to load them up just the way you like!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before digging in, squeeze some fresh lime juice over your tacos for that extra zing. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy your easy shrimp tacos and the smiles they bring!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking. You can do this by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry to ensure they cook evenly and get that lovely sear!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! If you’re missing any spices, you can use a pre-made taco seasoning instead. Just replace the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder with an equal amount of taco seasoning. Adjust to taste and your tacos will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp and toppings separate from the tortillas. Place them in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will last for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat the shrimp on the stove and warm up the tortillas!
Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can swap the shrimp for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Season them the same way you would the shrimp. You could also use black beans or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian option!
