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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Crema Recipe

4.1 from 58 reviews

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Crema are a vibrant and flavorful meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Juicy shrimp marinated in a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper are pan-cooked to perfection and served in warm tortillas with fresh cabbage, tomatoes, creamy avocado, cilantro, and a tangy lime crema. This recipe offers a delightful combination of spicy, tangy, and creamy elements with a satisfying crunch from the fresh veggies.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Marinade

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Tacos and Toppings

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Crema

  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly and let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Prepare the Crema: In a separate bowl, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated shrimp. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Using another skillet or directly over a low flame, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable, ready for folding.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Lay a few shrimp on each warm tortilla. Top them with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro to add freshness and texture.
  6. Drizzle with Crema: Generously spoon the prepared lime crema over the assembled tacos to add a creamy and tangy element that complements the spice.
  7. Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side, allowing diners to add an extra burst of citrus flavor if desired.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or include finely diced jalapeños in the marinade.
  • Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or flour tortillas for a softer texture.
  • The shrimp should be cooked quickly at high heat to prevent overcooking and maintain juiciness.
  • You can substitute the sour cream in the crema with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
  • Feel free to customize toppings with sliced radishes, pickled onions, or shredded cheese.

Keywords: spicy shrimp tacos, shrimp tacos with crema, Mexican shrimp recipe, easy shrimp tacos, quick seafood tacos