Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema: A Flavor Fiesta in Every Bite
There’s something magical about the combination of juicy, spicy shrimp and creamy avocado crema tucked into a warm tortilla. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a craving for something vibrant and satisfying, these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are here to save the day. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, they’re quick to whip up but packed with layers of flavor that’ll make you feel like you’re dining at a beachside cantina.
I first fell in love with this recipe during a summer trip to the coast, where fresh seafood and bold spices reign supreme. Back home, I tweaked the recipe to make it weeknight-friendly without sacrificing that restaurant-quality taste. The secret? A smoky, spicy marinade for the shrimp and a luxuriously smooth avocado crema that balances the heat. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a regular in your rotation. (And if you’re a fan of easy seafood dishes, you’ll adore my Cajun Shrimp Pasta too!)
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Shrimp Tacos
These tacos aren’t just delicious—they’re also:
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Customizable: Swap toppings to suit your mood.
- Packed with protein: Shrimp is a lean, nutritious choice.
- Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving
For the Avocado Crema
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Make the crema: Blend avocado, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, and salt until smooth. Add a splash of water if needed.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
- Assemble: Warm tortillas, then layer with shrimp, cabbage, avocado crema, and cilantro. Squeeze lime on top!
Tips for the Best Shrimp Tacos
Want to take these tacos to the next level? Here’s how:
- For extra smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing.
- Short on time? Use pre-mixed taco seasoning instead of individual spices.
- Love heat? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the crema.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before marinating.
How do I store leftovers? Keep components separate; shrimp and crema last 2 days in the fridge.
What’s a good side dish for shrimp tacos? Try Mexican Street Corn or a simple black bean salad.
Can I make the crema ahead? Yes, but press plastic wrap onto the surface to prevent browning.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the crema? Swap sour cream for coconut yogurt or silken tofu.
What’s the best way to warm tortillas? Lightly char them on a gas flame or wrap in a damp towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
There you have it—tacos that are equal parts easy and extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry crew, these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. For more taco inspiration, check out Simply Recipes’ taco roundup, or explore my Grilled Fish Tacos for another seafood twist. Now, go forth and taco ’bout how good these are!
