Shrimp Tacos

These easy Shrimp Tacos With Slaw are a delightful way to enjoy a burst of fresh flavors! Perfect for summer gatherings, quick dinners, or taco night with friends, these tacos deliver juicy shrimp, crunchy slaw, and creamy toppings in every bite. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up these scrumptious shrimp tacos that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with vibrant veggies and zesty flavors, each shrimp taco is a wholesome delight.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or jalapeños to make each taco your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these shrimp tacos are always a hit.
• Health-Conscious Choice: With lean shrimp and plenty of veggies, these tacos are both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make these Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp while allowing them to sear beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Helps you combine the slaw ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

These easy Shrimp Tacos With Slaw are packed with fresh flavors and only take 20 minutes to make! Each tortilla is filled with juicy, seasoned shrimp, homemade slaw, cilantro lime crema, and all your favorite toppings…making these shrimp tacos perfect for Summer!

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 Tacos 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 the most delicious Shrimp Tacos you’ve ever tasted!

Step 1: Prepare the Slaw

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and diced red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss well to combine.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil to the skillet once hot.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and toss until evenly coated.
4. Cook the shrimp in the skillet for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm corn tortillas in another skillet or directly over an open flame briefly.
2. Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla.
3. Top with prepared slaw, crumbled cheese, cilantro lime crema, avocado or guacamole, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and lime wedges as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Shrimp Tacos!

How to Serve Shrimp Tacos

Serving shrimp tacos is all about enhancing their fresh flavors. With a variety of toppings and sides, you can create a personalized taco experience for everyone at the table.

Classic Toppings

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the tacos with a refreshing zing.
• Pico De Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor and texture, making each bite enjoyable.

Creamy Additions

• Cilantro Lime Crema: This creamy sauce brings richness and tanginess to your tacos.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado provides a smooth texture that balances the spices in the shrimp.

Spicy Enhancements

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, jalapeños add a kick to your shrimp tacos.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Shrimp Tacos

Making perfect shrimp tacos is easy with a few simple techniques. These tips will help elevate your dish to new heights.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season the shrimp well with Cajun spices to enhance their natural flavors.
• Warm tortillas: Warm corn tortillas before serving to keep them pliable and flavorful.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for slaw and toppings; they add crunch and vibrancy.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can make them rubbery.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your shrimp tacos can create a delightful meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice is a classic complement to any taco meal.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, balancing the meal’s textures.
3. Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with fresh herbs and lime creates a refreshing side dish.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an easy starter or snack.
5. Black Bean Salad: A hearty black bean salad offers fiber and protein along with vibrant flavors.
6. Guacamole Dip: Pair guacamole with tortilla chips for an irresistible appetizer that pairs well with tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making shrimp tacos can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish.

• Bold seasoning: Over-seasoning shrimp can mask the natural flavors. Use just enough Cajun seasoning to enhance without overpowering.
• Bold tortilla choice: Using stale or cold tortillas can make the tacos less enjoyable. Always warm your corn tortillas before serving for optimal taste and texture.
• Bold slaw preparation: Skipping the lime juice in your slaw can result in a bland filling. The acidity brightens up the flavors, so don’t skip it!
• Bold shrimp cooking time: Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Aim for just 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
• Bold toppings overload: Adding too many toppings can make tacos messy and hard to eat. Choose a few fresh ingredients to keep flavors balanced and enjoyable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store shrimp tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the slaw and shrimp separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shrimp Tacos

• For best results, freeze cooked shrimp separately from tortillas and toppings.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Shrimp Tacos

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30 seconds intervals until hot.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making shrimp tacos, we’ve got answers!

How to make shrimp tacos?

To make shrimp tacos, season your shrimp with Cajun spices, cook them quickly, then assemble them in warmed tortillas with slaw and your choice of toppings.

What toppings go well with shrimp tacos?

Popular toppings include avocado or guacamole, cilantro lime crema, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp for my tacos?

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results.

How long do shrimp tacos last?

Shrimp tacos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freeze components separately for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Shrimp Tacos are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different toppings or sauces based on your preference. Give this recipe a try this summer; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!