These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are a vibrant dish that brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for taco night or a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to impress your guests with their zesty kick and creamy topping. The juicy shrimp are seasoned to perfection and paired with a luscious avocado crema, making this recipe a delightful combination of heat and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These tacos come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: With the combination of spices and creamy avocado crema, each bite is packed with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, these tacos provide a nutritious meal option.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a fiesta, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Spicy Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the cooking process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Blender
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp, giving you that perfect sear.
• Blender: Using a blender makes it easy to create a smooth avocado crema quickly.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl allows you to marinate the shrimp evenly with all the spices.
• Tongs: Tongs help you flip the shrimp easily without damaging them during cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
• Chili Powder: 1 tsp
• Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp
• Garlic Powder: ½ tsp
• Cumin: ½ tsp
• Cayenne Pepper: ¼ tsp, or to taste
• Salt & Pepper: to taste
• Lime Juice: 1 tbsp

For the Avocado Crema

• Avocado: 1 ripe
• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: ½ cup
• Lime Juice: 2 tbsp
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped
• Salt: to taste
• Water: as needed for consistency

For Assembly

• Corn or Flour Tortillas: 6 small
• Red Cabbage: 1 cup, shredded
• Carrot: ½ cup, shredded
• Jalapeño: 1 small, thinly sliced (optional)
• Fresh Cilantro: for garnish
• Lime Wedges: for serving

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Avocado Crema

Blend avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and salt until smooth. Add water as needed to reach a creamy consistency. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with shredded cabbage, carrot, cooked shrimp, and jalapeño slices if using. Drizzle generously with avocado crema and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with lime wedges on the side along with extra avocado crema for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are delightful and versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the tacos for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
• Sliced Jalapeños: Add thin slices of jalapeño for those who enjoy a bit more heat.

Accompaniments

• Corn Salsa: A sweet and tangy corn salsa pairs beautifully with the shrimp and adds a colorful touch.
• Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad provides fiber and complements the flavors of the tacos nicely.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a rich contrast to the spicy shrimp.

Serving Style

• Platter Style: Arrange all components on a large platter allowing guests to assemble their own tacos.
• Individual Plates: Serve each taco on individual plates with garnishes for a more formal presentation.

How to Perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

To enhance your Spicy Shrimp Tacos, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve the ideal balance of flavors and textures.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season the shrimp generously with spices for maximum flavor.
• Quality Tortillas: Use fresh corn or flour tortillas for the best texture; warm them before serving.
• Creamy Consistency: Adjust the avocado crema’s thickness by adding water gradually until it reaches your desired creaminess.
• Chill Ingredients: Keep your slaw and avocado crema chilled before serving for a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp.
• Experiment with Heat: Adjust cayenne pepper levels based on your spice preference to tailor it to your taste.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes; they add visual appeal and enhance flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

Complement your delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with these tasty side dishes that add variety to your meal.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful mix of grilled corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese makes a great pairing.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish brings out the taco flavors while keeping things light.
3. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, balancing out the meal perfectly.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a perfect appetizer before the main event.
5. Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and acidity that complements every bite of taco goodness.
6. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters provide an unexpected twist while keeping things healthy.
7. Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini offer a smoky flavor profile that pairs well with seafood.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies is healthy and adds nutritional value alongside your tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so aim for 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
• Not marinating long enough: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Skipping the avocado crema: This sauce is essential for balancing heat and adding creaminess. Make sure to include it for a complete taco experience.
• Using cold tortillas: Warm tortillas enhance the overall texture and flavor of your tacos. Always warm them before filling.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s spice tolerance varies. Taste your marinade and adjust seasonings accordingly, especially the cayenne pepper.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.

Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

• It’s best to freeze cooked shrimp separately from the toppings.
• Seal in freezer-safe bags or containers; use within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for a few minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema, you’re in the right place!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

How can I customize my Spicy Shrimp Tacos?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, or different types of peppers for added flavor.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

Sour cream works well as an alternative to Greek yogurt in the avocado crema.

How spicy are these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper used in the marinade.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various toppings or adjust the spices to fit your taste. Give them a try for your next meal—it’s a fantastic way to enjoy bold flavors wrapped in warm tortillas!

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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 3 (2 tacos per serving) 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema! These delicious tacos are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The tender shrimp, seasoned with a mix of spices, bring a delightful kick, while the creamy avocado crema adds a rich, refreshing touch. Each bite is a harmonious blend of heat and coolness, complemented by fresh vegetables and warm tortillas. You’ll love how quick and easy this recipe is—ready in just 20 minutes! Customize it with your favorite toppings to create a dish that’s uniquely yours.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder
• ½ tsp Cumin
• ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper, or to taste
• Salt & Pepper, to taste
• 3 tbsp Lime Juice, divided
• 1 ripe Avocado
• ½ cup Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
• 6 small Corn or Flour Tortillas
• 1 cup Red Cabbage, shredded
• ½ cup Carrot, shredded
• 1 small Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
• Fresh Cilantro, for garnish
• Lime Wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Season the shrimp by tossing it with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Make the avocado crema by blending avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and salt until smooth. Adjust consistency with water if needed.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
4. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos by adding shredded cabbage, carrots, cooked shrimp, jalapeños (if desired), and drizzle with avocado crema.
5. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper. Add toppings like fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor. For meal prep, store components separately to maintain freshness.