Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Recipe

Spicy shrimp tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, seasoned with spices like chili powder and cumin, and the refreshing avocado crema creates a balanced, delicious taco experience. These tacos are topped with crunchy cabbage, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra zing. The creamy avocado crema not only cools the heat from the shrimp but adds a smooth, rich texture to each bite.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the avocado crema and toppings.

2. Make the Avocado Crema

In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water to reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Set the avocado crema aside in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are pink, opaque, and slightly charred around the edges. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

4. Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp rests, warm your tortillas. You can either heat them directly over a gas flame for a slightly charred flavor or warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. If you prefer soft tortillas, wrap them in foil and place them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes.

5. Assemble the Tacos

To assemble the tacos, spread a generous spoonful of avocado crema onto each tortilla. Add 3-4 cooked shrimp per taco, then top with shredded red cabbage, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for extra brightness and serve immediately.

Optional Variations:

• Add spice: For those who love extra heat, top the tacos with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with a spicy hot sauce.
• Swap the protein: These tacos are also great with grilled chicken or fish if you want to change up the protein.
• Pineapple salsa: Add a sweet and tangy element by topping the tacos with a pineapple salsa made of diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Tacos:

1. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them will make them rubbery. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat.
2. Fresh tortillas: Using fresh tortillas can elevate the flavor and texture of your tacos. If you can, try to find freshly made corn or flour tortillas.
3. Charring the tortillas: If you have a gas stove, lightly char the tortillas over an open flame for a smoky flavor that enhances the tacos.

Serving Suggestions:

• With a side of rice and beans: Serve these spicy shrimp tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a full, hearty meal.
• Margaritas or aguas frescas: Pair the tacos with a refreshing drink like a classic margarita, sparkling water, or a fruity aguas frescas for a perfect accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating:

If you have leftover shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado crema can also be stored in the fridge, but it’s best to use it within a day to avoid discoloration. To reheat the shrimp, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

Conclusion:

Spicy shrimp tacos with avocado crema are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The blend of spice from the shrimp, the creaminess of the avocado crema, and the freshness of the toppings create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re making them for Taco Tuesday or simply want a quick and delicious seafood option, these tacos are sure to become a favorite.

Yield: 4

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Recipe

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Spicy shrimp tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, seasoned with spices like chili powder and cumin, and the refreshing avocado crema creates a balanced, delicious taco experience. These tacos are topped with crunchy cabbage, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for extra zing. The creamy avocado crema not only cools the heat from the shrimp but adds a smooth, rich texture to each bite.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• For the Avocado Crema:
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Water, if needed for thinning
• For the Tacos:
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for extra heat)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the avocado crema.
   
2. Make the Avocado Crema:
   In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Set aside.
   
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
   
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   In each warmed tortilla, add a layer of shredded red cabbage, a few spicy shrimp, and a drizzle of avocado crema. Top with chopped cilantro and jalapeño slices if you like extra heat.
   
5. Serve:
   Serve the shrimp tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
   

Notes

For added crunch, you can also top the tacos with crispy tortilla strips or crumbled queso fresco.

If you prefer a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the shrimp seasoning.

To save time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but fresh shrimp will give the best flavor.

You can also grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet for a smoky flavor.