Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Ingredients

• 454 g (1 lb)Peeled and deveined shrimp
• 15 ml (1 tbsp)Olive oil
• 5 ml (1 tsp)Chilli powder
• 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp)Cumin
• 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp)Garlic powder
• 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp)Salt
• 8Tortillas
• 90 g (1 cup)Shredded cabbage
• 120 g (1/2 cup)Sour cream
• 15 ml (1 tbsp)Lime juice
• 15 g (1/4 cup)Chopped coriander

Instructions

1. 1

   Season the shrimp

   In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with the olive oil, chilli powder, cumin, garlic powder and salt.

2. 2

   Cook the shrimp

   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until pink and cooked through.

3. 3

   Warm the tortillas

   Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or in the microwave.

4. 4

   Assemble the tacos

   Place shrimp on the tortillas, then top with shredded cabbage, sour cream, lime juice and chopped coriander.

What are shrimp tacos?

Tacos are a Mexican dish built around a tortilla folded or filled with toppings. Shrimp is a popular choice for a quick-cooking filling, especially in coastal-style preparations.

This version keeps the seasoning straightforward and balances the warm, spiced shrimp with crisp cabbage, creamy sour cream and bright lime.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 250 calories, 18g protein, 20g carbs, 10g fat.

The tortillas provide most of the carbohydrates, while olive oil and sour cream contribute much of the fat. Shrimp supplies most of the protein. Serve with extra vegetables or a side salad if you want more produce alongside the tacos.

Seasoning the shrimp

The spice mix: chilli powder, cumin, garlic powder and salt coat the shrimp alongside olive oil. Mixing them together in a bowl first helps distribute the seasoning before cooking.

Cooking for a tender texture

The skillet: medium-high heat gives the shrimp a short cooking time. Turn each piece after 2–3 minutes and look for shrimp that have turned pink and are cooked through.

Keeping the toppings fresh

The cabbage: its crunch contrasts with the tender shrimp, so add it when assembling rather than cooking it in the pan.

The finish: sour cream adds creaminess, while lime juice and coriander bring a fresh, tangy note. Add them over the shrimp just before serving.

Warming the tortillas

The method: warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave, as directed, while keeping them ready for filling. Warm tortillas are easier to fold around the toppings.

Serving the tacos

Serve the tacos as soon as they are assembled, while the shrimp are warm and the cabbage is crisp. A simple side of beans or extra vegetables can round out the meal.

Recipe notes & tips

• Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning so excess moisture does not dilute the coating.
• Keep the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet so they cook evenly.
• Use the pink colour and cooked-through appearance as your doneness cues.
• Warm the tortillas shortly before assembling so they are pliable.
• Add the cabbage and fresh toppings just before serving to preserve their texture.

Variations

• Add avocado: top the tacos with sliced avocado for a creamy contrast.
• Add heat: include sliced fresh chilli with the toppings.
• Use a different tortilla: choose corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
• Make it tangier: add extra lime juice at the table.
• Change the crunch: use finely shredded lettuce in place of some cabbage.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Overcooking the shrimp: cook just until pink and cooked through, as shrimp can turn tough if left in the pan too long.
• Crowding the skillet: cook in batches if the shrimp do not fit in a single layer.
• Using cold tortillas: warm them before filling so they fold more easily.
• Adding toppings too early: assemble close to serving time to keep the cabbage crisp.
• Uneven seasoning: mix the shrimp thoroughly with the oil and spices before cooking.

How to store

Store leftover shrimp and toppings separately in covered containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet until hot, then assemble with fresh tortillas and toppings.

Frequently asked questions