The moment I take my first bite of these Spicy Shrimp Tacos, I’m transported to a vibrant seaside fiesta where flavors dance on my tongue. The succulent shrimp, marinated in a smoky and spicy blend, perfectly complement the rich and creamy avocado crema. When I first experimented with this recipe, I never imagined how quickly it would become my go-to dish for easy weeknight dinners and lively gatherings alike.
With the crunch of fresh cabbage slaw adding that satisfying texture, these tacos are a burst of freshness that remind me to savor the simple pleasures in life. Whether you’re planning a Taco Tuesday or just craving something memorable, you’ll love how quick and effortless these Spicy Shrimp Tacos come together. Plus, by using corn tortillas, they cater to gluten-free diets effortlessly. Join me in the kitchen and let’s whip up a plateful of joy that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Why Love Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema?
Bursting with flavor, these tacos are a fiesta on your plate!
Quick prep means you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Gluten-free goodness is easily achieved with corn tortillas.
Versatile enough for any occasion, they’re perfect for Taco Tuesdays or family gatherings.
Fresh ingredients create a healthy option that’s still indulgent.
Crowd-pleaser alert! Everyone will be asking for seconds!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Ingredients
For the Shrimp Marinade
• Large, deveined shrimp – Fresh shrimp provides the best texture and flavor for this taco dish.
• Dark chili powder – This spice adds a lovely smokiness to the marinade.
• Smoked paprika – Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle depth of smokiness.
• Ground cumin – Contributes earthy tones that elevate the shrimp’s overall taste.
• Dried oregano – Offers a hint of herbal notes to balance the spices.
• Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic adds fragrant depth; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
• Red pepper flakes – Use to adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.
• Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing and bringing all flavors together.
• Lime juice – Fresh acidity brightens the dish; around 2 tsp from one lime will do.
• Avocado oil – This healthy fat helps activate the marinade’s flavors.
For the Avocado Crema
• Avocado – The star ingredient for creaminess and healthy fats in the crema.
• Cilantro – Adds a fresh burst; don’t forget the stems for blending!
• Jalapeño – For a kick of heat, remove seeds for a milder crema.
• Plain Greek yogurt – Provides tanginess and creaminess, a perfect substitute for sour cream.
• Water – Adjusts the consistency of the crema to your liking.
• Salt – A pinch enhances the overall flavor of the crema.
For the Tacos
• Shredded green and purple cabbage – Adds crunch and lovely color to the tacos.
• Tortillas (flour or corn) – Small tortillas are best for tacos; corn tortillas make them gluten-free.
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges – Essential garnishes that add fresh flavor bursts to each bite.
Dive into making these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema and bring a fiesta to your dining table!
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
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Prepare Marinade: 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 until well combined.
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Marinate Shrimp: Add the large, deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes for optimal flavor absorption.
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Make Avocado Crema: In a blender, combine the avocado, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, plain Greek yogurt, avocado oil, and salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency, adding a bit of water if needed to thin it out.
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Prepare Slaw: Thinly slice both green and purple cabbage. In a bowl, toss the cabbage with a spoonful of avocado crema until lightly coated for added flavor and crunch.
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Cook Shrimp: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated shrimp for 4-6 minutes, flipping once, until they curl into a ‘C’ shape, indicating they’re done.
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Assemble Tacos: Warm your tortillas briefly on the grill or skillet. Fill them with the cabbage slaw and cooked shrimp. Top generously with avocado crema, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for that extra zing!
Optional: Serve with a side of chips and salsa for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Variations
Delight in the freedom to personalize your tacos with these creative ideas!
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Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a tropical twist—great for those avoiding dairy!
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Protein Swap: Choose scallops or firm tofu instead of shrimp, keeping the marinade the same for a unique flair.
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Tortilla Type: Try using whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a nutritious twist, adding flavor and color to your plate.
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Flavor Boost: Incorporate fresh mango or pineapple salsa as a topping for a delightful sweetness that complements the spice.
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Extra Crunch: Add thinly sliced radishes to the slaw for an extra crunch and a peppery kick to balance the creamy avocado.
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Spice Level: If you crave more heat, toss in chopped serrano peppers to the marinade or layered inside the tacos!
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Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh parsley or mint instead of cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note that changes the taco dynamic.
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Smoky Twist: Turn up the flavor by adding smoked chipotle powder to the marinade for an even bolder taste experience.
Storage Tips for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Fridge: Store assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but note that tortillas may become soggy.
Avocado Crema: Best enjoyed fresh, avocado crema stays good for up to 48 hours in the fridge. Consider freezing excess but re-blend after thawing.
Freezer: If you want to freeze cooked shrimp, do so for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through; avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp up to 30 minutes in advance for optimal flavor, but if you’re short on time, even a quick 15 minutes will do the trick. Prepare the avocado crema and slaw up to 3 days ahead; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. To finish, simply sauté the marinated shrimp for 4-6 minutes when ready to serve, warm your tortillas, and assemble the tacos with the slaw and crema. This way, you can enjoy a delightful meal without the hassle on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema?
Enhance your taco night with these delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of your dish.
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Mexican Rice: This fluffy, flavorful rice dish absorbs spicy flavors beautifully and offers a hearty base to balance your tacos.
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Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh, zesty salsa provide a perfect appetizer that sets the mood for a fun Fiesta evening!
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn adds a touch of summer perfection, enhancing the vibrant taste of the spicy shrimp.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro will brighten this mix of greens, giving a refreshing crunch to your meal.
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Margaritas: A classic pairing! The tangy, sweet flavors complement the spiciness of the shrimp, making every bite more enjoyable.
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Watermelon Salsa: This fruity, vibrant salsa offers a sweet contrast to the spices, creating a balance that’s both refreshing and tasty.
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Key Lime Pie: For dessert, this tart, creamy pie rounds out your meal beautifully with its cool, zesty flavor that leaves a lasting impression.
Expert Tips for Spicy Shrimp Tacos
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Perfect Marinade Time: Avoid marinating shrimp for longer than 30 minutes to prevent a ceviche-like texture that can ruin your delicious tacos.
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Tortilla Tips: Use small tortillas and lightly toast them for easy handling and to enhance their taste. Flour tortillas can offer a different texture, but corn makes them gluten-free.
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Skewer for Grilling: If you choose to grill the shrimp, using skewers simplifies flipping and handling, making the process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Taste Before Serving: After assembling, taste your tacos and adjust with extra lime or cilantro for a fresh pop that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp.
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Serve Immediately: To keep your Spicy Shrimp Tacos warm and the vegetables crisp, serve right after assembling. Timing is key for the best experience!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the Spicy Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! It’s best to choose large, deveined shrimp that are fresh, as they provide the best texture and flavor. Look for shrimp that have a firm texture and a mild ocean scent without any strong fishy odor. If you can get them wild-caught, even better!
How should I store the leftovers of my Spicy Shrimp Tacos?
For the best quality, store the assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the tortillas may become soggy over time, so if possible, store the shrimp and slaw separately from the tortillas and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
Can I freeze the avocado crema?
Yes, you can freeze avocado crema! For optimal freshness, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and re-blend with a touch of water to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
The key to avoiding overcooked shrimp is to cook them just until they form a ‘C’ shape, which usually takes about 4-6 minutes. If you find yourself with overcooked shrimp, consider chopping them up and mixing them into a salad or a pasta dish instead. This way, you can still enjoy the flavors without the rubbery texture.
Is there a gluten-free option for the tortillas?
Very! Simply opt for gluten-free corn tortillas, which work perfectly for this recipe. They’ll hold up well while providing that traditional taco flavor. If you love experimenting, feel free to try out different toppings like pickled onions or salsa to layer more flavors into your gluten-free tacos!
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Definitely! The Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema can be tailored to various dietary needs. If you’re serving someone with a seafood allergy, consider swapping out the shrimp for grilled chicken or mushrooms. Additionally, if you’re concerned about lactose intolerance, substituting Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative will keep the tacos delicious and safe for everyone!
Savor Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Avocado Crema Delight
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 until well combined.
- Add the large, deveined shrimp to the marinade and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes.
- In a blender, combine avocado, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, plain Greek yogurt, avocado oil, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water if needed.
- Thinly slice both green and purple cabbage. Toss with a spoonful of avocado crema until lightly coated.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated shrimp for 4-6 minutes until they curl into a 'C' shape.
- Warm tortillas briefly on the grill or skillet. Fill them with cabbage slaw and cooked shrimp. Top with avocado crema, cilantro, and lime wedges.