Name: Shrimp Tacos Platter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 to 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 lime (optional for juice); 8 to 12 small tortillas (corn or flour); 1 to 2 cups shredded lettuce or cabbage; 1 to 2 tomatoes (diced); 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced); 1 ripe avocado (sliced); fresh cilantro leaves; lime wedges (for serving); sour cream or crema (optional); salsa or pico de gallo (optional); hot sauce (optional); cotija or feta cheese (optional)

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Experience the vibrant flavors of the sea with these juicy, seasoned shrimp tacos. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the tender, spiced shrimp and the fresh, crisp toppings nestled inside warm, soft tortillas. Perfectly suited for casual dinners or festive gatherings, this dish brings a splash of color and zest to your table.

The beauty of this shrimp tacos platter lies in its simplicity and versatility—whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or preparing for a fun get-together, these tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances spice, freshness, and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients yet packed with bold flavors.
Customizable toppings and sauces allow you to tailor each taco to your preference.
Bright, fresh ingredients bring vibrant colors and textures making every bite exciting.

Ingredients

Shrimp (450 g/1 lb): Peeled and deveined shrimp provide a tender, juicy protein base that absorbs seasoning wonderfully.
Olive Oil (1–2 tbsp): Helps coat the shrimp evenly for a perfect sear while adding a subtle fruity richness.
Chili Powder (1 tsp): Adds smoky warmth and mild heat, elevating the shrimp’s flavor profile.
Paprika (1 tsp): Enhances color and brings a sweet, earthy depth to the seasoning mix.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Infuses the shrimp with a gentle garlic aroma without overpowering.
Onion Powder (½ tsp): Provides subtle savory notes that complement the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing all seasonings.
Lime Juice (optional squeeze): Adds a bright citrusy finish that refreshes the palate.
Small Tortillas (8–12): Soft corn or flour tortillas serve as the perfect handheld base for assembling tacos.
Shredded Lettuce or Cabbage (1–2 cups): Crisp greens add crunch and freshness to each taco.
Diced Tomatoes (1–2 tomatoes): Juicy, ripe tomatoes contribute natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Finely Sliced Red Onion (½ onion): Provides sharpness and slight pungency for balance.
Sliced Ripe Avocado (1 unit): Creamy texture and rich flavor mellow the spices and brighten every bite.
Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Herbaceous notes that bring a fresh pop of flavor.
Lime Wedges: Served alongside for an extra burst of tangy citrus that ties flavors together.
Sour Cream or Crema (optional): Adds cool creaminess to calm the heat and add richness.
Salsa or Pico de Gallo (optional): Fresh, zesty topping to complement the shrimp’s seasoning.
Hot Sauce (optional): For those who like to dial up the spice.
Cotija or Feta Cheese (optional): Crumbled cheese adds a salty, tangy contrast to the fresh toppings.

Instructions

Season the Shrimp: Combine shrimp with olive oil and spices (chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) in a bowl. Toss until each piece is evenly coated to ensure bold, consistent flavor throughout the shrimp.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred, maximizing flavor and texture. Optionally, squeeze lime juice over cooked shrimp to brighten their taste.
Warm the Tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet, on a grill, or in the oven until soft and slightly charred, making them pliable for easy folding and imparting a hint of smoky flavor.
Assemble Tacos: Place shredded lettuce or cabbage on each tortilla as a fresh, crunchy base. Add 3–4 shrimp per taco, then layer on diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro to build layers of flavor and texture.
Add Sauces and Serve: Drizzle tacos with sour cream, crema, salsa, or your preferred sauces for creaminess and balance. Serve alongside lime wedges for an optional acidic kick that complements the shrimp.

You Must Know

Spice level can be tailored by adjusting chili powder or adding cayenne for extra heat.
Marinating shrimp briefly in lime juice and garlic before seasoning enhances zest and tenderness.
Corn tortillas offer authentic flavor and texture, while flour tortillas provide softness and flexibility.
Consider pairing with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad to make a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Store cooked shrimp separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Tortillas and fresh toppings are best kept fresh and assembled just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these shrimp tacos with a side of black beans or a vibrant corn salad. For drinks, a chilled margarita or light Mexican beer complements the zest and spices beautifully.

Professional Tips

Use medium-sized shrimp for balanced flavor and texture that fits comfortably in tortillas.
Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure a better sear and avoid steaming.
Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and prevent breakage.
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges enhance the dish’s brightness, so don’t skip these finishing touches.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?: Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just thaw them completely, pat dry, and proceed with seasoning to get the best results.
What is the best type of tortilla to use?: Corn tortillas provide authentic flavor and a slight chew, while flour tortillas are softer and easier to fold. Choose based on your texture preference.
How spicy are these shrimp tacos?: The spice level is moderate but can be adjusted by increasing chili powder or adding cayenne pepper for more heat.
Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?: You can cook the shrimp in advance and store them refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking before assembling tacos.
What other toppings work well with shrimp tacos?: Pickled jalapeños, shredded cheese, diced onions, fresh radishes, or a tangy slaw are all great additions that provide balance and crunch.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?: Absolutely! Using corn tortillas and ensuring all seasonings are gluten-free allows this dish to be gluten-friendly.
How can I make these tacos more filling?: Add beans, rice, or a hearty avocado spread to the tacos, or serve alongside satisfying sides to round out the meal.