These Whole30 Blackened Shrimp Tacos are a burst of flavor in every bite! Perfectly seasoned shrimp are served in crisp lettuce wraps, making them light and tasty.
I love how easy they are to whip up for a quick dinner. Plus, my family thinks I’m a mad kitchen genius when tacos are on the table—who doesn’t love that? 🌮
Enjoy them with your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa. They’re refreshing and will keep you feeling great—perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for this recipe due to their size and flavor. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can use smaller shrimp. For a seafood-free option, try using grilled chicken or even marinated tofu for a suitable alternative.
Olive Oil: This is used to help the spices stick and add flavor. If you want, you can substitute avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and is great for high-heat cooking. My go-to is extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika brings a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will do, but the smokiness won’t be the same. For those who like heat, you can adjust the cayenne pepper amount according to your spice tolerance. I find that using smoked sea salt can enhance the flavor too!
Lettuce: Romaine lettuce serves as the taco shell here, but you can also use other leafy greens like butter lettuce or even cabbage for a crunchier factor. Just make sure the leaves are big enough to hold the fillings.
How Do I Get Perfectly Blackened Shrimp?
Getting that amazing blackened look is all about the heat and timing. Start by making sure your skillet is really hot before adding the shrimp. This will help them cook evenly and develop a beautiful char. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot. A test is to flick a little water on it; it should sizzle.
- Lay the shrimp in a single layer; avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a good sear.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a pink center and a charred exterior.
Remember, don’t rush it! Letting the shrimp sit in the pan without stirring helps them get that nice blackened look that makes these tacos stand out.
How to Make Whole30 Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blackened Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Toppings:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated for tacos
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes to cook, totaling about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll quickly mix the shrimp with spices, cook them in a skillet, and prepare fresh toppings for an easy and flavorful taco night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until it’s all combined into a nice seasoning paste.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the seasoning mixture. Toss the shrimp gently in the bowl, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the delicious spices. This will give your shrimp that fantastic flavor!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re fully cooked and have a lovely charred, blackened appearance. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
4. Prepare the Toppings:
While the shrimp are cooking, grab another bowl to prepare your toppings. Mix together the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño (if you like it spicy). This refreshing salsa will add a perfect contrast to the blackened shrimp!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Take a lettuce leaf and place it flat on a plate. Fill it with a few pieces of the blackened shrimp, then spoon some of the mango salsa on top. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your whole30 blackened shrimp tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some juice over the top for an extra zing before diving in. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. To thaw, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely in the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you need an alternative, avocado oil works great as a substitute due to its high smoke point. You can also use coconut oil for a different flavor, although it might add a hint of sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos?
Store leftover shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp can last for up to 2 days, while the salsa toppings are best eaten within 1 day for optimal freshness. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet before assembling your tacos again.
Can I Make This Topping Mix Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa mix a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making your tacos even tastier!
