These tasty shrimp tacos are quick to make and packed with flavor! The shrimp is perfectly seasoned and paired with crunchy cabbage slaw for that extra zing.
Honestly, who can resist tacos? I love how fresh and vibrant these feel, especially on a warm day. They’re my go-to for a fun dinner with friends or a cozy night in! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor and texture. If unavailable, try using frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can also substitute shrimp with another protein like chicken or tofu for different flavors.
Cabbage: I prefer using both green and red cabbage for a mix of colors and crunch. If you can’t find either, try using pre-packaged slaw mix or even shredded lettuce. For a different twist, diced bell peppers add nice color and sweetness.
Tortillas: I usually opt for corn tortillas for their authentic taste, but flour tortillas work great too. If you’re gluten-free, there are many corn or gluten-free tortilla options available. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright flavor to this dish. If you’re not a fan or have allergies, parsley is a good substitute, although it has a milder taste. For a kick, try adding a chopped jalapeño for some heat!
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple. The key is to not overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Here’s how to get tender, juicy shrimp every time:
- Start with a hot skillet on medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sear.
- Add the seasoned shrimp and let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side without moving them. This allows them to develop a nice color.
- Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.
- If you’re unsure, check a few shrimp: they should be pink inside with no gray or translucent areas left.
How to Make Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. It’s a quick and tasty meal that you can have ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
Start by taking a large bowl. In this bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated in the seasoning. This will add a lot of flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. When they’re done, take them off the heat and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Cabbage Slaw:
In another bowl, mix the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. Give it a gentle toss to combine everything. This colorful slaw will add crunch and freshness to your tacos!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This sauce will be creamy and delicious on your tacos.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
Take your corn or flour tortillas and warm them in a skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable. This step is important for making sure your tacos don’t break when you fill them.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Now it’s time to build the tacos! Take a warm tortilla and place a generous amount of the cooked shrimp on top. Add a scoop of the cabbage slaw, and finally drizzle some of the creamy sauce over everything.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tasty shrimp tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over your tacos before eating for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or put them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker results. Once thawed, pat them dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
What can I substitute if I don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt on hand, you can use mayonnaise, buttermilk, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar creaminess. Just mix in some lime juice for tanginess to balance the flavors!
How can I adjust the spiciness of the shrimp?
To reduce the spiciness, you can either reduce the amount of chili powder and paprika or omit them entirely. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of sugar to counteract the heat. If you want to amp up the flavor without the heat, consider adding some smoked paprika for a smoky taste without the spice.
How do I store leftover shrimp tacos?
Store any leftover taco components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp, slaw, and creamy sauce apart to maintain freshness. When ready to eat, you can reheat the shrimp in a skillet but avoid reheating the tortillas to keep them soft and pliable.
