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A close-up shot showcases delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos, filled with vibrant toppings and ready to eat.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos deliver a perfect balance of heat, flavor, and texture for a satisfying and vibrant meal. The recipe emphasizes flavor layering, spice control, and the importance of balancing heat with acidity, sweetness, and umami for a truly memorable culinary experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage green or red
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced or diced
  • Lime wedges for garnish
  • Cilantro, chopped for garnish
  • Hot sauce optional

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • large skillet
  • tongs
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Dry skillet, microwave, or oven for warming tortillas

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator).
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise (if using), honey, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp mixture to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  4. While the shrimp are cooking, warm the tortillas according to package instructions. You can use a dry skillet, a microwave, or an oven.
  5. To assemble the tacos, place a spoonful of the slaw on each tortilla. Top with a few pieces of the cooked shrimp. Garnish with avocado slices, lime wedges, and cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite hot sauce, if desired.

Notes

Adjust the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper to your spice preference. Marinating the shrimp for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Taste and adjust the seasonings in the slaw to ensure a perfect balance. Warm the tortillas properly to make them more pliable. Garnish generously with avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro.