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Crispy Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Avocado Crema

crispy grilled shrimp tacos - featured image

These crispy grilled shrimp tacos feature a perfectly seasoned shrimp with a smoky char, paired with a silky, tangy avocado crema and fresh toppings for a quick, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 small garlic clove
  • Salt, to taste
  • Water as needed for thinning (1-2 tbsp)
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Optional: thinly sliced radishes or jalapeños

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in this marinade, coating evenly. Let sit for 15 minutes if possible.
  2. While shrimp marinates, blend avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and salt in a food processor until smooth. Add water 1 tbsp at a time to reach pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Shred red cabbage, chop cilantro, and slice radishes or jalapeños if using. Set aside.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  5. Grill shrimp in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and charred but still juicy.
  6. Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet until soft and slightly charred.
  7. Assemble tacos by spreading avocado crema on tortillas, topping with grilled shrimp, shredded cabbage, and cilantro. Add radishes or jalapeños if desired.
  8. Serve immediately while warm and crisp.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the grill to keep shrimp crispy. Marinate shrimp for 15 minutes but no longer to avoid mushiness. Use fresh shrimp if possible. Brush tortillas with oil to prevent sticking and add char. Adjust chili powder and jalapeños to taste. If no grill, use a hot cast iron skillet. Avocado crema can be made ahead and stored in fridge; stir before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, grilled shrimp, avocado crema, quick dinner, seafood tacos, easy recipe, gluten-free, healthy tacos