Eating shrimp offers a variety of health benefits. Shrimp is packed with several vitamins and minerals and is a great source of protein.
Added to that eating shrimp can also promote a healthy heart and brain due to the fact that shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids and the antioxidant astaxanthin.
We’re going to be creating a delicious spicy shrimp loaded taco that is packed with flavor and healthy goodness.
Homemade Spicy Shrimp Tacos
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are a flavor explosion, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering. The juicy, spicy shrimp pairs perfectly with crunchy slaw and your favorite toppings. Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth!
- For the Spicy Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-2 jalapeños (thinly sliced (seeds in for extra heat, remove for milder))
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Slaw:
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- For Serving:
- 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
- Your favorite toppings:
- Avocado or guacamole
- Pico de gallo or salsa
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Queso fresco (crumbled)
- Hot sauce
- Lime wedges
- Prepare the Spicy Shrimp Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, sliced jalapeños, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), cumin, and lime juice.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Do not marinate for longer than 30 minutes as the lime juice can start to “cook” the shrimp.
- Prepare the Slaw:
- In a separate medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, mayonnaise (if using), salt, and sugar (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine. Set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- While the shrimp are cooking, warm the tortillas according to package instructions. You can warm them in a dry skillet, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or directly over a gas flame for a slightly charred flavor.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- To assemble the tacos, place a few pieces of the spicy shrimp in the center of a warm tortilla.
- Top with a generous spoonful of the slaw and your favorite toppings like avocado, pico de gallo, sour cream, and queso fresco.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy, flavorful goodness!
Tips and Variations:
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder taco, omit the cayenne and remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slaw, such as thinly sliced red onion or bell peppers.
Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy element, whisk together some sour cream or Mexican crema with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt. Drizzle over the tacos.
Grilled Shrimp: You can also grill the marinated shrimp on skewers for a smoky flavor.
Make Ahead: The slaw can be made up to a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The shrimp is best cooked fresh.
Enjoy your homemade Spicy Shrimp Tacos! They’re sure to be a hit.