Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
SHRIMP MARINADE
1 lb shrimp uncooked, peeled, deveined, tails removed
1 tsp dark chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic minced or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp kosher salt
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tsp)
3 tbsp avocado oil
AVOCADO CREMA
1 medium avocado seed removed and flesh scooped out
1/2 cup cilantro
1 jalapeño seeds removed
3 cloves garlic peeled
2 limes juiced (3 tbsp)
1/2 cup plain greek yogurt
3 tbsp avocado oil
3 tbsp water
1/2 tsp kosher salt
TACO ELEMENTS/GARNISH
1 cup shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
8-10 small flour or corn tortillas (lightly toasted)
Fresh Cilantro
Lime Wedges
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: 3 tbsp avocado oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Add in prepped shrimp, stir to coat all the shrimp with marinade. Place in refrigerator and marinate for max 30 minutes.
While the shrimp is marinating, in a food processor add the avocado crema ingredients: avocado, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, yogurt, olive oil, water and kosher salt. Pulse until all the ingredients are smooth. If the consistency is too thick, add another tbsp of water. Set aside.
Using a mandoline or knife, shred the cabbages. Place in a small bowl, add a few spoons of the avocado crema and toss to combine. Save the rest of the crema to drizzle over the tacos at the end.
You can either cook the shrimp in a cast iron skillet or grill them. Over medium/high heat place the shrimp into the skillet. Ensure they are all laid flat into the pan and not on top of each other, this will allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of the shrimp, they will cook in about 4-6 minutes.
Flip halfway through to get a nice char/color on each side. If grilling, skewer them so they do not fall through the grates (see note on cooking shrimp).
Assemble the tacos: Place the tortilla down, add a few spoons of the cabbage slaw, add a few shrimp, drizzle avocado crema over the top (see note on crema drizzle), garnish with fresh cilantro, serve with lime wedges!
Notes
Prepping the shrimp:
If your shrimp are whole, remove the head first, then the legs, and then proceed to peel off the outer shell
Make sure the shrimp are deveined: you can ask them to do it at the seafood counter or if doing yourself, cut a shallow slit in back of shrimp where the dark line is and lift it out with a pairing knife
When removing the tail, pinch all the way at the back so you do not break off any of the tail meat
Marinating the shrimp:
Due to the citrus in the marinade, do not marinate the shrimp for more than 30 minutes. The citrus will begin to break down the proteins in the shrimp affecting the texture and causing it to ‘cook’ similar to ceviche.
Is my shrimp cooked?
Shrimp cook fast, there are a few things to look for to know that your shrimp is cooked.
Shrimp will turn from translucent to opaque when cooked through
They will also form a “c” shape, easy to remember because “c” stands for cooked!
Avocado crema drizzle:
You can spoon the crema over the tacos, or you can make a pipping bag to squeeze over the shrimp for presentation. In a ziplock bag, add the avocado crema, seal the bag, push all the crema to one corner, using scissors, cut the corner of the bag, then you can squeeze the crema out to top the shrimp.
Nutrition Information
Serving: 1, Calories: 950kcal (48%), Carbohydrates: 173g (58%), Protein: 43g (86%), Fat: 9g (14%), Saturated Fat: 1g (6%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 161mg (54%), Sodium: 935mg (41%), Fiber: 10g (42%), Sugar: 4g (4%)
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe, and if so, should I thaw them first?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. It’s recommended to thaw them first by placing them in the refrigerator for a few hours or under cold running water to ensure even cooking.
What can I use as a substitute for Greek yogurt in the avocado crema?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a similar creamy texture in the avocado crema.
Is there a recommended alternative for avocado oil if I don’t have it on hand?
You can use other mild-tasting oils like canola oil or vegetable oil as a substitute for avocado oil in the marinade and crema.
What’s the best way to char or grill the shrimp if I don’t have a grill or cast iron skillet?
You can use a grill pan or a regular non-stick skillet to achieve a similar char on the shrimp.
Make sure to cook them over medium/high heat for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I prepare the components of these tacos in advance for a quick meal?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp marinade, avocado crema, and cabbage slaw in advance to save time.
When you’re ready to eat, cook the shrimp and assemble the tacos for a fresh and delicious meal.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked properly?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and pink.
Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
Cooking time can vary depending on the size of the shrimp.
Can I make the avocado crema in advance and store it for later use?
Yes, you can make the avocado crema in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Keep it in an airtight container, and it should be good for a day or two.
You might need to stir it before using, as it can thicken.
Is there a recommended alternative to jalapeño for the avocado crema to adjust the spiciness?
If you prefer less heat, you can use a milder chili, like a bell pepper or a small amount of green chilies, as a substitute for the jalapeño in the avocado crema.
What can I use as a gluten-free alternative for the tortillas?
You can use corn tortillas or gluten-free tortillas as a gluten-free alternative for this recipe.
Ensure they are lightly toasted for added flavor.
Can I use frozen pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe, and if so, how should I adjust the cooking time?
Yes, you can use frozen pre-cooked shrimp to save time.
Simply thaw them and warm them in the skillet for a few minutes to heat through, as they are already cooked.
Adjust the cooking time accordingly for warming instead of cooking.