Description
Sizzling Spicy Shrimp Tacos combine zesty Mexican-inspired flavors with a refreshing garlic cilantro lime slaw that dances on your palate. Crisp tortillas cradle succulent shrimp, inviting you to savor each spicy, tangy bite of culinary excitement.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Slaw and Taco Components:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 6–8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro (optional)
- Sliced jalapenos (optional)
- Avocado (optional)
- Guacamole (optional)
Instructions
- Create a zesty slaw by combining shredded green and red cabbage with freshly chopped cilantro, minced garlic, tangy lime juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then thoroughly mix and set aside to allow flavors to meld while preparing the shrimp.
- Marinate the shrimp in a vibrant spice blend featuring chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and a hint of cayenne for extra heat. Coat evenly with olive oil and seasonings to ensure maximum flavor penetration.
- Preheat a skillet to medium-high temperature and carefully place seasoned shrimp into the pan. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into a beautiful pink color and become opaque throughout.
- Gently warm tortillas in a dry skillet or carefully pass over an open flame, creating slightly charred edges and enhancing their pliability.
- Assemble tacos by layering a generous portion of the marinated slaw as the base, then top with the spicy, perfectly cooked shrimp. Finish with a fresh squeeze of lime juice and optional garnishes like sliced avocado or diced jalapeños for an extra flavor kick.
Notes
- Marinate the slaw for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor depth and allow ingredients to meld together beautifully.
- Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more vibrant citrus punch that elevates the entire dish.
- Choose corn tortillas for an authentic Mexican taste and naturally gluten-free option that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.
- Control spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper – start with a pinch and gradually increase for personalized heat intensity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg