Description
These mouthwatering shrimp tacos are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week. Juicy shrimp seasoned with smoked paprika and chili powder are pan-seared to perfection, then paired with a tangy cabbage and tomato slaw, creamy avocado slices, and blue cheese crumbles wrapped in warm flour tortillas. A refreshing squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro tie all the vibrant flavors together, creating a delicious and satisfying taco experience in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-off)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Slaw and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (red and green mix)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
Other
- 8 small flour tortillas
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a slight char. Remove the shrimp from the heat to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the Slaw: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded red and green cabbage and diced tomatoes. Add half of the lime juice and a pinch of salt, then toss thoroughly to blend the flavors and slightly soften the vegetables.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas either in a dry skillet or directly over a low flame until they are warmed through and lightly charred, making them pliable and adding subtle smoky flavor.
- Assemble the Tacos: Layer the cabbage-tomato slaw on each tortilla, add 2 to 3 cooked shrimp, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles, place avocado slices, drizzle the remaining lime juice, and finish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for optimal freshness and taste.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning mix.
- Substitute blue cheese with feta or cotija for a different flavor profile.
- Use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option.
- To make ahead, prepare the slaw and shrimp separately, then assemble just before serving to keep tortillas from becoming soggy.
- Leftover shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
