Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema and Cabbage Slaw Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 2 reviews

Fresh and delicious shrimp tacos featuring tender, spiced shrimp cooked to perfection, topped with a slightly spicy avocado crema and a crispy, tangy cabbage slaw. This easy-to-make recipe brings vibrant Mexican flavors to your table in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: 8 tacos

Ingredients

Shrimp

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed (about 30 shrimp)

Avocado Crema

  • 1 small avocado
  • 1 large garlic clove
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
  • ¼ cup cilantro, lightly packed
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded

Cabbage Slaw

  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • ¼ white onion, very thinly sliced
  • ⅓ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

For Serving

  • 8 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
  • Lime wedges
  • Mexican hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, lime juice, and taco seasoning. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate briefly to absorb the flavors.
  2. Make the Avocado Crema: In a food processor, add the avocado, garlic clove, sour cream, sea salt, lime juice, cilantro, and seeded jalapeño. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Prepare the Cabbage Slaw: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, thinly sliced white onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss the mixture with about ½ cup of the avocado crema until everything is well coated and mixed evenly.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot and glistening, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas. Place 3 to 4 cooked shrimp on each tortilla, then top with a generous amount of cabbage slaw. Serve immediately with lime wedges and Mexican hot sauce on the side, if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño when making the avocado crema.
  • Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor; thawed frozen shrimp can work as well.
  • The slaw can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge to save time on serving day.
  • For gluten-free tacos, ensure the corn tortillas are certified gluten-free.
  • Feel free to customize toppings with diced tomatoes or crumbled cotija cheese for extra flavor.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free