Shrimp Tacos Recipe

These Shrimp Tacos are a flavor fiesta! Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp nestled in warm tortillas, topped with a vibrant slaw, creamy avocado, and a tangy homemade sauce that will make your taste buds sing. They’re easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes, and perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun Taco Tuesday celebration, or any occasion where you crave a delicious and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor explosion: The combination of seasoned shrimp, fresh toppings, and that incredible homemade sauce is a symphony of flavors and textures.
• Quick and easy: These tacos come together in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect weeknight meal.
• Healthy and satisfying: Shrimp is a lean protein source, and the fresh toppings add a boost of nutrients.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings or adjust the spiciness of the sauce to your liking.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Shrimp Tacos with the BEST Shrimp Taco Sauce

This recipe uses a combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients and pantry staples to create a truly delicious taco experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp:

• Shrimp: Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent flavor to the shrimp.
• Sea Salt, Black Pepper, Ground Cumin, Cayenne Pepper: A blend of spices that add depth and a touch of heat to the shrimp.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp.

For the Toppings:

• Corn Tortillas: Small, 6-inch corn tortillas are ideal for these tacos. You can also use hard taco shells if you prefer.
• Purple Cabbage: Adds a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Avocado: Provides a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp and tangy bite.
• Cotija Cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty, tangy flavor.
• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
• Lime: Wedges of lime add a bright citrusy flavor.

For the Shrimp Taco Sauce:

• Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Create a creamy base for the sauce.
• Lime Juice: Adds a tangy kick.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• Sriracha Sauce: Adds a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your liking.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Shrimp Tacos with the BEST Shrimp Taco Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Thaw the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with the garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 1-2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Toast the Tortillas

Toast the tortillas over an open gas stovetop flame or in a hot skillet until lightly charred or golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Toppings

While the shrimp is cooking, prepare the toppings. Thinly slice the cabbage, dice the avocado and red onion, and coarsely chop the cilantro.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and sriracha sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve!

To assemble the tacos, arrange the shrimp and toppings over the toasted tortillas. Serve with the homemade shrimp taco sauce and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Shrimp variations: You can use different sizes of shrimp, but medium or large shrimp work best for tacos.
• Tortilla options: You can use flour tortillas or hard taco shells instead of corn tortillas.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and sriracha sauce to your liking.

How to Serve Shrimp Tacos

• Taco night: These tacos are perfect for a fun and easy Taco Tuesday celebration.
• Casual dinner: They also make a great casual weeknight meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce can also be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the shrimp gently in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop until heated through. Warm the tortillas before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply skip the cooking step and proceed with assembling the tacos.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use corn tortillas.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.¹

Can I grill the shrimp instead of sautéing them?
Yes, you can grill the shrimp. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Shrimp Tacos with the BEST Shrimp Taco Sauce. I hope you enjoy it!

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