Easy Shrimp Tacos
These Shrimp Tacos are a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight. Featuring juicy, seasoned shrimp, a creamy tangy sauce, and a vibrant slaw, they're an explosion of fresh flavors and textures in every bite. This easy recipe will become your new go-to for taco night.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper optional
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, hot sauce, pickled onions
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or over a gas flame until pliable and slightly charred.
- Place a few shrimp in each warm tortilla.
- Top with the slaw and a drizzle of the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with lime wedges and any other desired toppings.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Don't overcook the shrimp; it's the most important thing. To spice it up, add cayenne pepper to the shrimp or creamy sauce. You can prep the slaw and creamy sauce ahead of time. Get creative with toppings like pickled onions or diced mango. Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas are also delicious. Store leftover shrimp, slaw, and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.