These shrimp tacos are a tasty treat, filled with juicy shrimp and topped with a crunchy cilantro cabbage slaw. Perfect for any taco lover!
I love how easy they are to make, and the fresh flavors really brighten up your day. Grab your favorite hot sauce, and get ready for a fiesta in your mouth! 🌮
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I recommend using large shrimp for the best texture. If you’re allergic or prefer not to use shrimp, try using firm tofu or chicken pieces as a substitute, adjusting cooking time and marinade accordingly.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re out, feel free to swap with canola oil or melted coconut oil, though olive oil is my favorite for its distinct taste.
Spices: Chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin are key for flavor. You can use taco seasoning instead of individual spices for a quicker option. If you like heat, adding cayenne pepper is a great idea!
Cabbage: Green cabbage is crunchy and fresh for slaw. If you can’t find it, red cabbage works too. You can also use pre-packaged coleslaw mix to save time.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess. If you want a lighter choice, use plain yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt. Personally, I love the tang of Greek yogurt!
How Do I Marinate the Shrimp for Great Flavor?
Marinating shrimp is simple but crucial for building flavor. Combine shrimp with olive oil, spices, salt, and pepper. Here’s how:
- Make sure all shrimp are evenly coated. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Let them sit for at least 15 minutes, but not more than 30, as shrimp can become mushy.
- Don’t skip this step! The marination allows spices to seep into the shrimp, enhancing the taco experience.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp for Tacos?
Cooking shrimp correctly ensures they’re juicy and flavorful. Here’s a quick guide:
- Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat; this gives a nice sear.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing. If cooking a lot, do it in batches.
How to Make Shrimp Tacos With Cilantro Cabbage Slaw?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional: crumbled feta or cotija cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy your fresh shrimp tacos on the table in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15 minutes to soak up all those yummy flavors.
2. Make the Cilantro Cabbage Slaw:
While the shrimp is marinating, start preparing your slaw. In a separate bowl, mix the thinly sliced green cabbage with chopped cilantro, a pinch of salt, and the juice from half of the lime. Give it a good mix and set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. They should be perfectly cooked and juicy!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp is cooking, warm the corn tortillas to make them pliable. You can do this in a separate pan or on the grill for a little extra flavor. Just a minute or two on each side will do!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
To put your tacos together, take a warm tortilla and place a few shrimp inside. Top it with a generous amount of the cilantro cabbage slaw and some slices of avocado. If you like, drizzle some sour cream or Greek yogurt on top and sprinkle with feta or cotija cheese.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your shrimp tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over your tacos for a tasty kick! Enjoy your homemade shrimp tacos fresh and delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or for a quick option, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking!
Can I Substitute the Shrimp with Something Else?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other proteins like chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For chicken, cook until it’s no longer pink inside, and for fish, flake it with a fork once it’s cooked through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp and cilantro cabbage slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet and assemble with fresh tortillas and slaw to maintain their crunch!
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cilantro cabbage slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. This will allow the flavors to meld, but it’s best to add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green!
