Irresistibly Juicy Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Recipe

Introduction

These Irresistibly Juicy Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, they make a vibrant and satisfying meal ideal for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 avocado
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 cups cabbage or slaw mix
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 8 corn or flour tortillas

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
2. Step 2: While the shrimp marinate, cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. In a blender, combine avocado flesh, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed to reach desired consistency. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and slightly charred.
4. Step 4: Warm the tortillas by placing them in a hot skillet for 15-30 seconds per side or wrap them in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
5. Step 5: Assemble the tacos by layering cabbage on a warmed tortilla, adding a generous portion of cooked shrimp, drizzling with avocado crema, sprinkling with cilantro, and finishing with a squeeze of lime juice. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Tips & Variations

• Try swapping shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your preference or dietary needs.
• Adjust chili powder quantity to control the spice level according to your taste.
• Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder in the avocado crema for a bolder flavor.
• For extra crunch, add pickled jalapeños or radishes to your tacos.
• Warm tortillas thoroughly to make them more pliable and enhance their flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cooked shrimp and avocado crema separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking. Avocado crema is best enjoyed fresh but can be stirred before use if stored. Keep tortillas wrapped to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to keep the dish gluten-free.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked properly?

Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque with a slight char on the surface, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on size. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.

Irresistibly Juicy Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Recipe

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4.6 from 133 reviews

These Irresistibly Juicy Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema combine perfectly seasoned seared shrimp with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce and fresh crunchy slaw. Ready in just 30 minutes, they offer a vibrant and flavorful twist on classic tacos, ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 pound Shrimp
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 2 tablespoons Lime Juice

Avocado Crema

• 1 Avocado
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
• 1 teaspoon Lime Juice (additional, for crema)
• 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder (for crema)
• Pinch of Salt (for crema)

Toppings and Assembly

• 2 cups Cabbage or Slaw Mix
• 1/4 cup Cilantro
• 8 Corn or Flour Tortillas

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to deepen the flavors.
2. Prepare the Avocado Crema: While the shrimp marinate, cut the ripe avocado in half and remove the pit. In a blender, add the avocado flesh, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding a splash of water if needed to reach desired consistency. Set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid crowding. Sear the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred, indicating they are cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp cook, warm the tortillas either by placing them in a hot skillet for 15-30 seconds on each side or wrapping them in foil and heating in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This softens the tortillas and enhances their flavor.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Lay a warmed tortilla on a plate. Layer a handful of shredded cabbage for crunch, add a generous amount of cooked shrimp, then drizzle with the creamy avocado crema. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and finish with a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. Repeat with remaining ingredients to serve.

Notes

• You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• Adjust chili powder amount to control the spice level.
• Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan-friendly avocado crema.
• Regular paprika can be swapped for smoked paprika if a milder flavor is preferred.
• Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them pliable and fresh.

Keywords: Shrimp tacos, spicy shrimp, avocado crema, quick tacos, Mexican seafood, easy dinner, healthy tacos, seared shrimp