Description
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and crunch. Juicy, seasoned shrimp are paired with a zesty avocado crema and fresh toppings, all wrapped in warm tortillas for an irresistible meal. Perfect for taco night or any time you’re craving bold flavors!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Avocado Crema:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and lime juice.
- Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the avocado crema.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Crema
- In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, salt, and cilantro.
- Blend until smooth, adding 1–2 tbsp water if needed to thin it out.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat for 30 seconds per side, or until warm and pliable.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Spread a spoonful of avocado crema on each tortilla.
- Add shredded cabbage or lettuce, followed by the spicy shrimp.
- Top with diced tomatoes, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
Use Fresh Shrimp – If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly; remove it from the heat as soon as it turns pink.
Make the Crema Ahead – Store in the fridge for up to 2 days for easy taco assembly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired