These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are a tasty treat! Loaded with juicy shrimp and a creamy avocado sauce, they’re perfect for taco night. Plus, they add a kick that will wake up your taste buds!
What’s better than taco night? Taco night with shrimp! I love making these for friends since they’re quick and easy to whip up. Perfect for a fun gathering or a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for these tacos because they cook quickly and hold all the flavors. If you don’t have shrimp, you can use chicken or tofu for a tasty alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Chili Powder: This spice brings a beautiful heat and depth to the shrimp. If you like a smokier taste, try smoked paprika instead. For a milder version, use taco seasoning or omit it altogether.
Avocado: Ripe avocados are crucial for the crema’s creamy texture. If you don’t have one, you can use store-bought guacamole or even mashed silken tofu for a lower-fat option.
Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for their authentic flavor, but flour tortillas work nicely too. If you need a gluten-free option, look for corn or gluten-free wraps.
How Can You Make the Avocado Crema Extra Creamy?
Preparing a smooth avocado crema is vital for balancing the spiciness of the tacos. Start with a ripe avocado, as it’s key for that creamy texture. A food processor or blender works best for this.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into the blender.
- Add Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or more yogurt until you reach the desired consistency.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Crema:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced red onion
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Add the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are nicely coated in the spices. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb all those yummy flavors.
2. Make the Avocado Crema:
While the shrimp is marinating, let’s whip up that creamy avocado goodness! In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the salt if needed. Set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn opaque and are cooked through. Don’t overcook them; they’ll be tough if you do!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While your shrimp is cooking, warm up the tortillas. You can do this by lightly toasting them in a dry skillet or popping them in the microwave for a few seconds until they’re soft and pliable. This step makes them so much easier to fold and chew!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! On each tortilla, place a handful of shredded lettuce. Next, add a generous portion of the cooked shrimp. Drizzle some avocado crema over the top and finish off with chopped cilantro and diced red onion for that fresh bite!
6. Serve:
Serve your spicy shrimp tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a little lime juice on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Enjoy your delicious spicy shrimp tacos with creamy avocado goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they marinate well.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream is a great substitute, or you can use regular yogurt. If you want a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or mash up another ripe avocado for a creamier taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp, avocado crema, and toppings separate from the tortillas in airtight containers. The shrimp and crema should be consumed within 2 days when refrigerated. Warm up the shrimp before assembling fresh tacos when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Make the Avocado Crema Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can make the avocado crema up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container and press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the crema to minimize browning from air exposure.
