Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Quick Shrimp Tacos Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 53 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (2 tacos per person)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Quick Shrimp Tacos recipe offers a flavorful and fast way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired main course. Seasoned shrimp are pan-cooked to perfection and served with fresh cabbage, avocado, red onion, and cilantro on warm tortillas. An optional creamy sauce with lime and hot sauce adds a tangy kick, making these tacos perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasonings

  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Taco Assembly

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Lime wedges for serving

Optional Creamy Sauce

  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce


Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
  2. Cook the shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  3. Warm the tortillas: Warm the tortillas either in a dry skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave until soft and pliable.
  4. Assemble the tacos: Place a portion of shredded cabbage or slaw mix on each tortilla, then top with the cooked shrimp, avocado slices, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
  5. Prepare the optional creamy sauce: If using, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and hot sauce in a small bowl to create a tangy drizzle.
  6. Serve: Drizzle the creamy sauce over the tacos if desired and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Notes

  • For extra brightness and flavor, add mango salsa or pickled onions as toppings.
  • For a low-carb option, substitute tortillas with crisp lettuce wraps.
  • Using corn tortillas makes the recipe gluten-free; ensure other ingredients are gluten-free if needed.