These Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a fiesta on a plate! With juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and zesty sauce, they are easy to make and full of flavor.
Who doesn’t love a good taco? I love piling mine high with toppings for a crunchy bite. Plus, they make great leftovers—if there are any left! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work great! I prefer large shrimp for grilling. If you’re vegetarian, consider using grilled veggies like zucchini or mushrooms as a tasty alternative.
Taco seasoning: You can use store-bought or make your own with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. If you need a low-sodium version, try avoiding added salt in your homemade mix.
Corn tortillas: Small corn tortillas offer a traditional taste. If gluten-free is a must, look for gluten-free tortillas or use lettuce wraps as a fun alternative.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess. If you run out, you can use a dollop of guacamole or even some creamy hummus for a twist.
Sour cream/Yogurt: If you want a lighter sauce, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option. This gives a nice tangy flavor!
How Do You Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be quick, but timing matters. The goal is juicy shrimp that isn’t overcooked. Remember, shrimp cook fast—usually in 2-3 minutes per side! Here’s how:
- Start with preheated grill at medium-high. Proper heat is key for that nice char.
- Coat shrimp evenly with olive oil and seasoning for maximum flavor. Thread shrimp onto skewers to make flipping easy.
- Grill until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on the time!
Lastly, let grilled shrimp rest for a minute before adding to your tacos. This helps keep them juicy.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
- 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20-25 minutes in total. This includes around 10 minutes for prep and 10-15 minutes for grilling. It’s a quick and delightful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill and Shrimp:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take a mixing bowl and toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the shrimp are well coated. This will add delicious flavor!
2. Grilling the Shrimp:
Next, thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers. This makes them easier to handle on the grill. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Keep an eye on them as they cook quickly!
3. Warming the Tortillas and Making the Sauce:
While the shrimp are grilling, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side, so they become soft and pliable. For the sauce, combine the sour cream (or yogurt) with lime juice in a small bowl. Stir until mixed well, and if you’d like, add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Assembling the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part: assembling your tacos! Take a warm tortilla, add a few grilled shrimp, and top it with shredded cabbage, diced avocado, some jalapeño slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Drizzle the lime sauce over your creations.
5. Serving:
Serve your tasty tacos with lime wedges on the side, and enjoy every bite of these delicious grilled shrimp tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they grill nicely.
Can I Make the Taco Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sour cream or yogurt sauce a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving as it might thicken a bit overnight.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover shrimp and taco components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp can be kept for up to 2 days, while the veggies and sauce should be enjoyed within 1-2 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp gently on the stove, and add fresh toppings just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can make a quick substitute using a mix of spices. Combine 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust to taste based on your preference!
