The sound of sizzling shrimp fills the air, instantly transporting me to a vibrant taco stand on a bustling street. These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema aren’t just a meal; they’re a fiesta on your plate! Combining tender, marinated shrimp with creamy avocado crema and a colorful cabbage slaw, this recipe is an easy, must-make choice for taco night or any time you crave a burst of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopper for your next gathering, these tacos promise to delight. Plus, they’re gluten-free when you use corn tortillas, making them a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Ready to spice up your Taco Tuesday? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Spicy Shrimp Tacos Special?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors with spicy shrimp, creamy avocado crema, and crunchy cabbage slaw that simply dance together.
Healthy Twist: A fantastic gluten-free option awaits when you use corn tortillas, allowing everyone to indulge without worry.
Quick and Easy: You can whip these tacos up in no time—ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for taco night, they are sure to impress your family and friends, bringing festivity to any table.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match toppings or proteins like mahi-mahi or chicken for a different twist. Incorporate them into your meal rotation with delicious options like Sweet Spicy Korean Fried Chicken for variety.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
For the Shrimp Marinade
• Shrimp – uncooked, peeled, and deveined; the star of the dish, providing tender texture and flavor.
• Dark Chili Powder – adds depth and spiciness; substitute with cayenne for an extra kick.
• Smoked Paprika – imparts smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used for a milder taste.
• Ground Cumin – brings warmth; no direct substitutes, but coriander can offer a different flavor.
• Dried Oregano – herbal note; use fresh if available, but adjust quantity accordingly.
• Garlic (minced or powder) – enhances flavor; fresh garlic is ideal, but powder works in a pinch.
• Red Pepper Flakes – adjust according to spice preference for personalized heat.
• Kosher Salt – enhances overall flavor; sea salt is a suitable alternative.
• Juice of Lime – fresh acidity balances flavors; always go for fresh over bottled.
• Avocado Oil – provides healthy fats in the marinade; substitute with olive oil as needed.
For the Avocado Crema
• Avocado – ensures creaminess in the crema; use a ripe avocado for a smooth texture.
• Cilantro – adds refreshing flavor; stems are usable, or substitute with parsley for a twist.
• Jalapeño – for extra heat; omit for a milder version if preferred.
• Garlic (in crema) – fresh garlic enhances boldness; adjust to taste for preference.
• Plain Greek Yogurt – offers creaminess and tang; can be replaced with sour cream if desired.
For the Cabbage Slaw
• Green Cabbage & Purple Cabbage – both add color and crunch to your tacos; use them together or separately.
For the Tacos
• Small Tortillas – choose flour or corn based on preference; corn tortillas provide a gluten-free option for these spicy shrimp tacos with avocado crema.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, whisk together dark chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, lime juice, and avocado oil. Add uncooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Crema
In a blender or food processor, combine a ripe avocado, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, plain Greek yogurt, avocado oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, adding water gradually to reach your desired creaminess. Taste the crema and adjust seasoning before transferring it to a bowl. This creamy avocado crema will enhance your spicy shrimp tacos.
Step 3: Make the Cabbage Slaw
Thinly slice both green and purple cabbage to create a colorful blend for the slaw. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage with a few spoonfuls of the prepared avocado crema until just coated. This slaw will provide a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp. Set the slaw aside while you cook the shrimp to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook them for about 4-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and curl into a ‘C’ shape. Remove the shrimp from heat and let them sit briefly to retain their juiciness for the spicy shrimp tacos.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm your small tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable. On each tortilla, layer the cooked shrimp, followed by the colorful cabbage slaw, and a generous drizzle of avocado crema on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of flavor. Your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are now ready to be served and celebrated!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Variations
Feel free to get creative with these tacos—there are so many delightful twists to explore!
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Mahi-Mahi: Swap shrimp for mahi-mahi for a delicious fish alternative that will still shine with the spicy marinade.
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Chicken: For a heartier option, use grilled chicken in place of shrimp. Season it well for a tasty twist!
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Mango Salsa: Top your tacos with a vibrant mango salsa for a refreshing burst of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
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Pickled Red Onions: Add tangy pickled red onions for an extra zing that cuts through the richness of the avocado crema.
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Air-Fried Shrimp: For a healthier preparation, try air-frying your shrimp instead of sautéing or grilling. This keeps them crispy without excess oil.
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Dairy-Free Crema: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version of the avocado crema—smooth, creamy, and deliciously tropical!
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Spice Level Adjustment: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or jalapeños based on your heat preference—if you like it spicy, load them on!
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Avocado Oil Swap: Use sesame oil instead of avocado oil in the marinade for an added nutty flavor that pairs well with the shrimp.
For more flavor inspiration, consider trying these alongside delicious dishes like Korean Spicy Beef Bowls or even treat yourself to Sweet Spicy Korean Fried Chicken!
Expert Tips for Spicy Shrimp Tacos
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Marinating Caution: Don’t exceed 30 minutes when marinating shrimp to prevent them from becoming mushy. Freshness is key for these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema.
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Tortilla Size Matters: Use small tortillas for an ideal taco experience. Larger burrito-sized tortillas can overwhelm the flavors and ingredients.
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Seasoning Balance: Always taste your avocado crema and adjust seasoning gradually. It’s easier to add than to fix over-seasoning in this creamy delight.
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Skewers for Grilling: If grilling the shrimp, consider using skewers for easy handling and even cooking, making your taco assembly a breeze.
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Prep Ahead: You can prepare the cabbage slaw and avocado crema in advance. This not only saves time during assembly but also lets the flavors develop beautifully!
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Mix It Up: Experiment with additional toppings like pickled onions or mango salsa for a unique twist on these Spicy Shrimp Tacos.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Keep leftover spicy shrimp tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, store components separately, if possible.
Freezer: You can freeze marinated shrimp and avocado crema for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking the shrimp and re-blending the crema.
Avocado Crema: The crema may require re-blending due to separation after being stored in the fridge. Ensure it’s well mixed before serving again.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes, keeping them juicy for your spicy shrimp tacos with avocado crema.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the shrimp up to 30 minutes in advance—just coat them in the marinade and cover to refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, the avocado crema can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours; just give it a quick re-blend to restore its creaminess before serving. For the cabbage slaw, you can slice the cabbage and toss it with a bit of crema to coat, storing it separately for up to 3 days for maximum crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the shrimp and warm the tortillas, and you’ll have a vibrant taco night with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Enhance your taco night with delightful sides and drinks that complement this flavor-packed fiesta on your plate.
- Mexican Garden Chicken Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad featuring crisp veggies and zesty dressing adds a crunchy contrast that lightens up the meal.
- Cheesy Queso Fundido: This warm, gooey cheese dip, perfect for sharing, offers a rich and indulgent touch to balance the spice of the tacos.
- Southwestern Stuffed Poblano Peppers: These flavorful peppers stuffed with rice and black beans create a hearty side dish that feels like a warm hug.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime zest brings a wonderful freshness that pairs beautifully with spicy shrimp.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn brushed with lime and cotija cheese makes a delicious, seasonal addition that complements the shrimp’s heat.
- Classic Margaritas: A zesty lime margarita is a perfect drink pairing, cutting through the richness of the avocado crema with its bright acidity.
- Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal with these crispy, sugary treats served with warm chocolate sauce for a delightful sweet finish.
- Agua Fresca: Refreshing and fruity agua fresca offers a light and cooling drink option, balancing the heat of the tacos perfectly.
- Tortilla Chips and Salsa: A simple but classic side, crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa provide an irresistible start to your taco feast.
- Pineapple Salsa: A tropical twist, this sweet and tangy salsa brings a refreshing pop of flavor that compliments the spicy shrimp perfectly.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados for the avocado crema?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch without any dark spots all over. Gently squeeze the avocado; if it yields a bit, it’s ripe and perfect for a creamy texture in your crema.
How long do leftovers of spicy shrimp tacos last in the fridge?
Leftover spicy shrimp tacos can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the taco components fresh, especially the avocado crema, it’s best to store them separately when possible.
Can I freeze the marinated shrimp and avocado crema?
Yes, you can! Freeze the marinated shrimp and the avocado crema in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight, then cook the shrimp as usual and re-blend the crema to restore its smooth texture.
What should I do if my shrimp end up overcooked or mushy?
Very! To avoid mushy shrimp, stick to the recommended marinating time of 20-30 minutes. If they do end up overcooked, incorporate them into a fish taco salad or serve alongside rice; the added toppings can help balance the texture and taste.
Are there any dietary considerations with shrimp?
Indeed! If you’re serving to guests, remember that shrimp can be an allergen for some people. Always check with your diners about seafood allergies beforehand. For a different twist, consider substituting shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for those who prefer alternative proteins.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema for Taco Night Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together dark chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, lime juice, and avocado oil. Add the shrimp, cover, and marinate for 20-30 minutes.
- In a blender, combine avocado, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, Greek yogurt, avocado oil, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water to reach desired consistency.
- Thinly slice both cabbages and toss with some avocado crema until coated. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Cook the marinated shrimp for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until pink and curled.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet for 30 seconds per side. Layer shrimp, cabbage slaw, and drizzle with avocado crema. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
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