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Shrimp Tacos Recipe (Fresh, Zesty, and Built for Texture)
Isla Marie

Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Quick, flavorful shrimp tacos with seasoned shrimp, crisp cabbage slaw, and a creamy lime sauce. Fresh, balanced, and ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 cups green or purple cabbage shredded
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice for slaw
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice for sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • Optional: avocado slices jalapeño slices, hot sauce

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step 1. Season the Shrimp
  1. Pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2. Prepare the Slaw
  1. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage with 1 tablespoon lime juice and a pinch of salt. Toss lightly and set aside.
Step 3. Make the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with remaining lime juice and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 4. Cook the Shrimp
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Step 5. Warm the Tortillas
  1. Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 20–30 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
Step 6. Assemble the Tacos
  1. Divide shrimp among tortillas. Top with slaw, drizzle with sauce, and sprinkle with cilantro. Add optional toppings as desired.
Step 7. Serve Immediately
  1. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Video

Notes

  • Do not overcook shrimp; they become rubbery quickly.
  • Warm tortillas to prevent cracking.
  • Keep slaw lightly dressed to avoid soggy tacos.
  • Shrimp are best served fresh, not reheated.