These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are a delightful combination of smoky, spiced shrimp and a cool, creamy avocado sauce. Perfect for taco night, these tacos are fresh, flavorful, and come together in just 30 minutes. The tangy lime and cilantro perfectly balance the heat, making this dish a must-try for any taco lover.
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Shrimp Tacos
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: Spicy shrimp combined with a refreshing avocado crema creates the perfect flavor balance.
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh ingredients like lime, cilantro, and avocado.
- Versatile: You can easily customize these tacos with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Tacos
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Avocado Crema:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or frying pan
- Blender or food processor (for the crema)
- Tongs for flipping shrimp
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and lime juice. Make sure the shrimp are well coated in the seasoning.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp 2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Crema 3. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos 4. To assemble, spread a spoonful of avocado crema on each tortilla. 5. Top with a few shrimp, shredded cabbage or lettuce, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
Step 5: Serve 6. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these tacos with Mexican rice or a side of black beans for a complete meal.
- Add some extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, queso fresco, or a drizzle of hot sauce for more flavor.
Tips for the Best Spicy Shrimp Tacos
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Fresh Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side to soften them up before assembling the tacos.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less spice, omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add extra cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover shrimp and avocado crema in separate airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet for a minute or two before serving.
- Freezer: It’s best to enjoy the shrimp fresh, but if you need to freeze them, do so before cooking. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months and thaw before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! For a dairy-free version, replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or a splash of coconut milk for the crema.
Q3: What can I use instead of shrimp?
A: If you don’t eat shrimp, you can use grilled chicken, fish (like cod or tilapia), or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
Conclusion: A Flavorful and Fresh Favorite!
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are the perfect mix of heat and coolness, packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making them for taco night or a casual dinner with friends, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Did you try this recipe? Leave a review and share your experience!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Enjoy your tacos and feel free to get creative with your toppings!
