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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Crema Recipe

4.1 from 58 reviews

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Crema combine perfectly seasoned, sautéed shrimp with fresh vegetables and a tangy lime crema for a delicious and vibrant meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Other Ingredients

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Crema

  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well so the shrimp are fully coated and let them marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Prepare the Crema: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Using another skillet or heating directly over a flame, warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable and slightly charred for added flavor.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Lay the warmed tortillas flat and place a few cooked shrimp on each. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and chopped fresh cilantro to add texture and freshness.
  6. Drizzle with Crema: Generously spoon or drizzle the prepared lime crema over the assembled tacos to add a creamy and tangy finish.
  7. Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top, adding a burst of bright citrus flavor that complements the spice of the shrimp.

Notes

  • For extra heat, include the optional cayenne pepper in the marinade.
  • Use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference.
  • Greek yogurt in the crema offers a healthier alternative to sour cream without compromising flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead by marinating shrimp and prepping toppings separately.

Keywords: spicy shrimp tacos, shrimp tacos recipe, Mexican tacos, quick shrimp dinner, lime crema, easy taco recipe