Shrimp tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, bringing a burst of flavor and freshness to your meal. With a crispy slaw and perfectly seasoned shrimp, these tacos are not only easy to make but also a hit for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just whipping up a quick dinner, shrimp tacos are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
Making shrimp tacos is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, they are quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of succulent shrimp and crunchy slaw adds texture and a variety of flavors to each bite. Additionally, this recipe is versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings. Plus, shrimp is a healthy source of protein, making these tacos both delicious and nutritious!
How to Make Shrimp Tacos
Follow these simple steps to create your own shrimp tacos at home:
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup shredded red cabbage
- ¾ cup shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrot
- ¼ cup finely chopped scallions
- ½ tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1½ tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons taco seasoning
- 6 to 8 flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, warmed)
- Cubed or sliced avocado
- Fresh lime juice
- Sesame seeds
- Freshly chopped cilantro
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together all the slaw ingredients.
- In a small bowl or jug, make the Asian dressing by whisking together all the ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss together until evenly coated. Set aside.
- In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the butter and olive oil. Allow to heat up.
- Once hot, add the shrimp and taco seasoning and mix together; cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Assemble the tacos by placing a serving of the Asian slaw in the center of a warmed tortilla. Top with a few of the prepared shrimp.
- Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp, and add some avocado, sesame seeds, and fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
How to Serve Shrimp Tacos
To serve shrimp tacos, arrange them on a platter and offer extra toppings like avocado, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro on the side. This allows everyone to customize their tacos according to their taste. You can also serve them with a side of chips or a light salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Shrimp Tacos
If you have leftovers, it is best to store the components separately to maintain freshness. Place the shrimp and slaw in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat the shrimp gently and assemble the tacos fresh.
Tips to Make Shrimp Tacos
- Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- For added crunch, feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes in your slaw.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to your tacos.
Variation
If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you can swap out the shrimp for fish or chicken. Grilling the protein instead of cooking it in a skillet can also add a nice flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Q: Are there any gluten-free options for the tortillas?
A: Absolutely! You can easily find gluten-free tortillas made from corn or other gluten-free grains.
Q: How can I make these tacos spicier?
A: You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slaw or shrimp for an extra kick.
Enjoy making these scrumptious shrimp tacos, packed with flavor and goodness!
Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
For the Slaw
- ¾ cup shredded red cabbage
- ¾ cup shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrot
- ¼ cup finely chopped scallions
- ½ tablespoon minced fresh ginger
For the Dressing
- 1½ tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
For the Tacos
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons taco seasoning
- 6 to 8 pieces flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, warmed)
- Cubed or sliced avocado
- Fresh lime juice
- Sesame seeds
- Freshly chopped cilantro
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together all the slaw ingredients.
- In a small bowl or jug, make the Asian dressing by whisking together all the ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss together until evenly coated. Set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the butter and olive oil. Allow to heat up.
- Once hot, add the shrimp and taco seasoning and mix together; cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Assembly
- Assemble the tacos by placing a serving of the Asian slaw in the center of a warmed tortilla. Top with a few of the prepared shrimp.
- Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp, and add some avocado, sesame seeds, and fresh chopped cilantro.
