Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos

If you’re craving a burst of bold, zesty flavors wrapped in a soft tortilla, these Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos are just what you need! Packed with perfectly spiced shrimp, creamy avocado, and a tangy lime crema, this recipe offers the perfect balance of heat and freshness. Ideal for Taco Tuesday or a quick weeknight dinner, these tacos will quickly become one of my go-to meals!

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

8 small corn or flour tortillas

1 avocado, sliced

1 cup cabbage, shredded

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

1 lime, cut into wedges

For the lime crema:

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon lime zest

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

Toss the shrimp with olive oil and the spice mixture, making sure the shrimp are evenly coated.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat.

To make the lime crema, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl.

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable.

To assemble the tacos, place a few shrimp on each tortilla, then top with slices of avocado, shredded cabbage, cilantro, and a drizzle of lime crema.

Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

While these Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos are delicious as written, I love experimenting with a few variations:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the shrimp for grilled vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. The smoky spice mix will still deliver great flavor.

Add Heat: For extra heat, top the tacos with some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Taco Toppings: I sometimes add a few crumbled queso fresco or a sprinkle of diced red onion for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how I store them:

Shrimp: Store the shrimp separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a minute or two until heated through.

Lime Crema: Keep the lime crema in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir it before serving.

Tortillas and Toppings: I usually keep the tortillas and toppings (avocado, cabbage, cilantro) separately in the fridge to keep everything fresh. I suggest assembling the tacos right before serving to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! If I’m using frozen shrimp, I thaw them completely before cooking. Just be sure to pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess water when seasoning them.

Can I make the lime crema ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the lime crema a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving.

Can I use a different type of protein instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! These tacos are great with other proteins like grilled chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I make these tacos spicier?

If I want to turn up the heat, I add more cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or top the tacos with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Can I make the cabbage slaw in advance?

Yes, I sometimes prepare the shredded cabbage and cilantro mixture ahead of time, storing it in the fridge until ready to use. It’ll stay fresh for a day or two.

Conclusion

These Spicy Shrimp Avocado Tacos are a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any taco night. The combination of spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty lime crema creates a mouthwatering experience every time. Whether I’m making them for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe always hits the spot. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, I’m sure you’ll love these tacos just as much as I do!

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