Shrimp Tacos

These easy Shrimp Tacos With Slaw are a delightful treat that can be prepared in just 20 minutes! Packed with fresh flavors, these tacos feature juicy, seasoned shrimp paired with homemade slaw and cilantro lime crema. They’re perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a delicious meal. Enjoy the vibrant combination of toppings that makes each bite a burst of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh vegetables and herbs ensures a vibrant taste that’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable: Top your tacos with your favorite ingredients, allowing everyone to create their own perfect bite.
• Flavorful Seasoning: The Cajun seasoning adds a lovely kick without being overpowering, making it suitable for all palates.
• Great for Meal Prep: These shrimp tacos can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp, allowing them to become perfectly tender.
• Mixing Bowl: This is crucial for combining the slaw ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in quickly chopping vegetables like cabbage and onions, saving you time.
• Tongs: Using tongs makes it easy to flip the shrimp while cooking and serve them hot directly into your tortillas.

Ingredients

For these vibrant Shrimp Tacos, gather the following ingredients:

For the Slaw

• 3 cups shredded purple cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Shrimp

• 2 pounds shrimp (shells/tails removed and deveined)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

For Assembly

• 12 corn tortillas (warmed)
• Cheese: Cotija or Queso Fresco (crumbled)
• Cilantro Lime Crema (Mexican Crema or Sour Cream)
• Avocado or Guacamole
• Pico De Gallo
• Cilantro
• Jalapeños
• Lime Wedges

How to Make Shrimp Tacos

Follow these simple steps to create delicious Shrimp Tacos:

Step 1: Prepare the Slaw

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, diced red onion, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss until thoroughly mixed. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning.
3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 3: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Take a warmed corn tortilla and add a generous spoonful of slaw.
2. Top with cooked shrimp and any additional toppings such as cheese, cilantro lime crema, avocado, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and lime wedges.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Shrimp Tacos!

How to Serve Shrimp Tacos

Serving shrimp tacos is all about enhancing their fresh flavors and textures. You can mix and match toppings to create a delightful experience for everyone at the table.

Fresh Toppings

• Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado or guacamole balances the spices and adds richness.
• Pico De Gallo: This fresh salsa brings a zesty kick with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños.

Squeeze of Lime

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice over your tacos elevates the flavor profile with a tangy twist.

Cheese Options

• Cotija or Queso Fresco: Crumbled cheese adds a savory creaminess, enhancing each bite.

Spicy Kick

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, fresh jalapeños can be added for an extra kick.

Crunchy Slaw

• Homemade Slaw: The crunchy cabbage slaw gives texture and balances the flavors in the tacos.

How to Perfect Shrimp Tacos

Perfecting shrimp tacos is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your taco-making skills.

• Bold Seasoning: Use Cajun seasoning generously on the shrimp for maximum flavor.
• Warm Tortillas: Always warm your corn tortillas before serving; it enhances their taste and texture.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh veggies for toppings to ensure crispness and vibrant flavors.
• Right Cooking Time: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking makes them tough.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Tacos

Pairing side dishes with shrimp tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements shrimp tacos well.
2. Black Beans: Protein-packed black beans provide a hearty addition that pairs nicely with shrimp.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds sweetness.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies bring smokiness that balances the dish.
5. Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips makes a perfect appetizer.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with lime vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch alongside tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making shrimp tacos, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can enhance your dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Not adequately seasoning the shrimp can lead to bland tacos. Always season your shrimp generously with spices like Cajun seasoning for a flavor boost.

• Boldly neglect the slaw: A dry or flavorless slaw will diminish your taco experience. Ensure your slaw is fresh and well-dressed with lime juice and olive oil for added zest.

• Boldly overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-5 minutes.

• Boldly forget the toppings: Toppings elevate your shrimp tacos but are often overlooked. Don’t skip on garnishes like avocado, pico de gallo, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.

• Boldly rush the tortilla warming: Cold tortillas can ruin the whole experience. Warm your corn tortillas on a skillet or in the oven for a soft and pliable bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep shrimp tacos in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best quality.

Freezing Shrimp Tacos

• Freeze cooked shrimp separately from other ingredients.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Shrimp Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm tacos for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a plate covered with a damp paper towel; heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat; warm each taco for about 1 minute per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making delicious shrimp tacos.

How do I make shrimp tacos?

Making shrimp tacos involves seasoning cooked shrimp, preparing a fresh slaw, and assembling everything in warmed tortillas topped with your favorite garnishes.

What ingredients do I need for shrimp tacos?

Essential ingredients include shrimp, corn tortillas, cabbage or slaw mix, lime juice, olive oil, and desired toppings like cilantro and avocado.

Can I use frozen shrimp for my tacos?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw them properly before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

How do I customize my shrimp tacos?

You can customize by adding different vegetables, using various sauces, or swapping out toppings according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These easy Shrimp Tacos With Slaw are perfect for any occasion. They offer vibrant flavors and quick prep time, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or add extra spice!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Shrimp Tacos

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6 (12 tacos) 1x

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Description

Enjoy vibrant and flavorful Shrimp Tacos that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes! These delightful tacos feature perfectly seasoned shrimp paired with a refreshing slaw and creamy cilantro lime crema, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a delicious meal, each bite is a burst of fresh flavors. Customize your toppings to suit your taste, making these tacos not just a dish but an experience everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups shredded purple cabbage
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 2 pounds shrimp (deveined)
• 12 corn tortillas
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Cotija cheese (optional)
• Cilantro lime crema (optional)
• Avocado or guacamole (optional)
• Pico de gallo (optional)
• Jalapeños (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the slaw by mixing cabbage, red onion, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
3. Assemble tacos by placing slaw on warm tortillas, topping with shrimp and desired garnishes.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 150mg