Print

Quick Zesty Shrimp Tacos

quick zesty shrimp tacos - featured image

A quick and easy 20-minute recipe featuring zesty, smoky shrimp with a fresh, crunchy slaw, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium-sized, tail off)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese, extra lime wedges, pickled jalapeños, avocado slices or guacamole

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp marinade by combining olive oil, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well.
  2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. Make the quick slaw by combining shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrot, and chopped cilantro in a bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour over the veggies and toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or griddle for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred. Keep warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel.
  7. Assemble tacos by placing 3-4 shrimp on each tortilla, topping with quick slaw, and adding optional garnishes as desired. Serve with extra lime wedges.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Marinate shrimp for only 10 minutes to avoid mushy texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a good sear. Warm tortillas on a skillet or griddle for best results. Slaw tastes better after sitting a few hours. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas. Optional garnishes add extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, quick shrimp recipe, zesty shrimp, easy tacos, weeknight dinner, seafood tacos, homemade tacos