These Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos offer a delicious combination of smoky, spicy shrimp and the creamy, fresh flavor of ripe avocado. The sweet crunch of the cabbage and the tang of the lime add even more depth to the flavors, making each bite irresistible. This recipe is as customizable as it is tasty. You can add more heat with extra chili powder or jalapeños, or make it milder for those who prefer less spice. The colorful toppings not only enhance the flavor but also create a visually stunning plate, perfect for any meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 avocado, diced
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1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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8 small corn tortillas
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1 lime, cut into wedges
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1 tablespoon sour cream (optional)
Directions:
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In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss shrimp with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
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To assemble the tacos, layer shrimp, diced avocado, red cabbage, and cilantro onto each tortilla.
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Serve with lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos – A Flavorful and Healthy Mexican-Inspired Meal
If you’re craving a meal that packs a punch of flavor while still being fresh and healthy, look no further than these Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos. This recipe brings together the heat of perfectly seasoned shrimp, the creaminess of avocado crema, and the crunch of fresh cabbage. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining, these tacos are sure to please anyone at your table.
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of spicy shrimp and cool avocado crema is a classic pairing that creates an irresistible balance. The shrimp is seasoned with a zesty mix of chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, and garlic powder, creating the perfect amount of spice and smokiness. When cooked to perfection, the shrimp becomes tender and juicy, while the avocado crema cools things down with its creamy texture, which has a subtle tang from sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Topped with fresh cabbage and cilantro, this dish not only bursts with flavor but also with vibrant colors, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. A squeeze of lime adds the finishing touch, enhancing all the flavors while adding a touch of brightness to the tacos.
Benefits of Shrimp in Your Diet
Shrimp is a lean, low-calorie source of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal while maintaining a healthy diet. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, shrimp promotes heart health and can contribute to improved brain function. Additionally, shrimp contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, which support your overall health.
By using shrimp as the main protein source, this recipe remains light yet satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone following a low-calorie or high-protein diet. Moreover, shrimp can be easily substituted for other proteins like chicken or tofu, making this recipe versatile for various dietary preferences.
The Importance of Avocado Crema
Avocado crema serves as the perfect complement to the spicy shrimp, offering a cooling sensation and a creamy texture that balances the heat. Avocados are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, which can help support heart health and digestion. The addition of sour cream or Greek yogurt in the crema gives it a tangy flavor while making it rich and velvety. This creamy topping not only enhances the taste of the tacos but also contributes to making them more nutritious.
Why This Recipe is the Best
What sets this Spicy Shrimp Avocado Taco recipe apart from other taco recipes is the balance of flavors. The shrimp is perfectly spiced, offering just the right amount of heat and smokiness, while the avocado crema offers a cool contrast, making each bite enjoyable and satisfying. The dish is quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes to put together, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet impressive.
Additionally, the taco shells themselves are flexible. You can choose between soft corn or flour tortillas based on your preference, and the toppings can easily be adjusted to suit any dietary needs or preferences. You could add pickled onions for extra zing or swap the sour cream in the crema for a dairy-free option to accommodate allergies. This recipe can be enjoyed by a wide variety of people, from those seeking a gluten-free or dairy-free meal to those simply wanting something fresh and flavorful.
Make-Ahead and Prep Options
One of the most convenient aspects of this recipe is that several components can be prepared ahead of time, allowing for a streamlined cooking process. The avocado crema can be made up to 24 hours in advance, and you can store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent it from browning. The cabbage can be shredded and stored for up to 3 days, making it easy to assemble the tacos in a flash.
The shrimp marinade can be mixed in advance, too. Just remember to add the shrimp to the marinade no more than 10 minutes before cooking to avoid over-marinating and toughening the shrimp. These prep options make this dish ideal for entertaining or when you need a quick meal that still tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Customization Options
This recipe is highly customizable based on your dietary preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. If shrimp isn’t your choice of protein, feel free to substitute with firm white fish, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The spices in the seasoning mix work wonderfully with a variety of proteins, and the smoky flavor of paprika ensures the dish remains savory and rich.
If you prefer a milder taco, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and increase the amount of smoked paprika for a more subtle flavor. On the other hand, if you’re craving more heat, add extra cayenne or top your tacos with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos are versatile and can be paired with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. A simple side of Mexican rice or black beans would complement the flavors perfectly. For a more refreshing side, try a tangy mango or pineapple salsa to add a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the heat of the shrimp.
If you’re looking to serve something more substantial, consider adding refried beans, a fresh salad with lime dressing, or Mexican street corn (elote) for an authentic touch. And don’t forget to set out lime wedges, pickled onions, and additional hot sauce for guests to personalize their tacos.
Conclusion
These Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos are the perfect blend of heat, freshness, and flavor, making them a go-to choice for any taco lover. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and offer a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these tacos are sure to become a favorite. Plus, with the ability to prep components in advance and a variety of substitutions available, they are as convenient as they are tasty. Try them today and elevate your taco game with this vibrant, Mexican-inspired dish!
