Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Slaw Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a quick, vibrant meal that bursts with flavor, look no further than these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Slaw. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty spices, and creamy avocado slaw creates a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
For the Spicy Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the spice mixture. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb all those bold flavors.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Slaw
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and red onion.
- Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
- Place a generous amount of the avocado slaw on each tortilla.
- Top with the cooked shrimp and finish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible; they tend to have better flavor and texture compared to farmed varieties.
- Tortilla Options: While corn tortillas are traditional, feel free to use flour tortillas for a softer bite.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne.
- Avocado Ripeness: Ensure your avocado is ripe but firm for the slaw. A perfectly ripe avocado adds creaminess without falling apart.
Serving Suggestions
These tacos pair wonderfully with a refreshing margarita or a cold beer. For an added touch, serve with a side of black beans or a fresh corn salad. If you want to elevate your taco night, consider setting up a taco bar with additional toppings like salsa, pickled jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco.
Variations and Substitutions
- For a Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with grilled or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, seasoned with the same spices.
- Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, incorporate sliced jalapeños into the avocado slaw or top the tacos with a spicy sauce.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Slaw are not only flavorful but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will make any table come alive. Don’t hesitate to invite friends over for taco night or make them for a satisfying dinner any day of the week.
Further Reading
To explore more delicious taco recipes, consider checking out these articles:
With these cooking tips and variations, you can make this recipe your own. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite of your creation!
