Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Cilantro Sauce Recipe

Tantalizing summer evenings call for these mouthwatering grilled shrimp tacos with creamy cilantro sauce that dance with vibrant flavors.

Succulent shrimp sizzle on the grill, promising a delectable meal in mere minutes.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of smoky seafood and zesty sauce that awakens your taste buds.

The creamy cilantro sauce adds a luxurious touch, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

Fresh ingredients and quick preparation make this recipe a weeknight champion for anyone seeking a delicious meal.

Tender shrimp nestled in warm tortillas create a feast that feels both casual and gourmet.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of these irresistible tacos.

Shrimp Taco Ingredients For Maximum Freshness

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that serves as the star protein for these delicious tacos.

• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Oregano, Cumin, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt: A blend of spices that adds depth and warmth to the shrimp.

• Olive Oil: Helps prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill and adds a subtle flavor.
• Skewers: Useful for easy grilling and handling of the shrimp.

• Sour Cream, Cilantro, Lime Zest, Lime Juice: Creates a creamy and tangy sauce that complements the grilled shrimp.

• Green Cabbage, Red Cabbage, Jalapeno: Provides a crunchy and spicy base for the tacos.

• Tortillas: Soft shells that hold all the delicious ingredients together.
• Extra Cilantro: Adds a fresh herbal garnish to the tacos.

Taco Tools For The Ultimate Shrimp Wraps

• Grill: High-heat outdoor or indoor grill for perfectly charred shrimp.
• Skewers: Metal or wooden skewers for threading and grilling shrimp.
• Large Mixing Bowls: One for seasoning shrimp, another for making slaw and sauce.
• Tongs: For flipping skewers and handling shrimp on the grill.
• Cutting Board: For chopping cilantro, jalapeno, and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: To chop herbs and vegetables precisely.
• Brush: For applying olive oil on shrimp before and during grilling.
• Medium Bowl: Specifically for mixing creamy cilantro sauce.

Steps To Grilled Shrimp Taco Glory

Step 1: Spice Up the Shrimp

Grab a large mixing bowl and create a flavor explosion by combining paprika, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt.

Gently tumble the shrimp in this zesty seasoning blend until every morsel is coated with mouthwatering spices.

Step 2: Prepare Shrimp Skewers

Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers, carefully piercing through the top and bottom of each shrimp.

Slide them down to the skewer’s base, aiming for about 4 shrimp per skewer.

Step 3: Oil and Prep for Grilling

Just before hitting the grill, generously brush each skewer with olive oil to ensure a perfect, non-stick cooking experience.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Fire up the grill to high heat.

Cook the shrimp for 3 minutes, brush with additional olive oil, then flip and grill for another 3 minutes until they turn beautifully opaque.

Carefully remove from the grill and slide the shrimp off the skewers.

Step 5: Whip Up Creamy Cilantro Sauce

• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime zest
• Salt
• Lime juice

Stir until smooth and tangy.

Step 6: Create Crunchy Slaw

• Green cabbage
• Red cabbage
• Jalapeno

Pour half the cilantro sauce over the vegetables and toss until well coated.

Step 7: Assemble Incredible Tacos

• Crisp slaw
• Grilled shrimp
• Remaining cilantro sauce
• Extra cilantro
• Fresh lime juice squeeze

Serve immediately and enjoy your flavor-packed seafood fiesta!

Expert Advice For Juicy, Flavorful Shrimp Tacos

• Brush skewers generously with olive oil right before grilling to ensure easy release and beautiful grill marks.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat tolerance, adding more for extra kick or reducing for milder flavor.
• Let shrimp marinate in seasonings for 15-20 minutes before grilling to enhance taste penetration.
• Slice cabbage and jalapeño super thin for a crisp, uniform texture that blends perfectly with creamy sauce.
• Extra cilantro sauce can be refrigerated for 2-3 days, making it perfect for quick meal prep or additional servings.

Shrimp Taco Variations You’ll Want To Try

• Vegan Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with marinated hearts of palm or king oyster mushrooms, sliced into strips and grilled for a plant-based alternative that mimics seafood texture.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use corn tortillas instead of flour and ensure all spices are certified gluten-free for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap tortillas with large lettuce leaves like butter lettuce or romaine for a fresh, carb-conscious wrap that keeps the vibrant flavors intact.
• Spicy Lover's Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or incorporate diced habanero peppers into the slaw for an intense heat kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.

Ways To Serve Shrimp Tacos With Panache

• Tropical Taco Night: Create a vibrant beachside dinner experience with colorful side dishes that complement the zesty shrimp tacos.
• Mexican Fiesta Plating: Arrange tacos on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra sauce, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro for interactive, family-style dining.
• Beverage Pairing: Serve with chilled Mexican beer, crisp white wine, or a refreshing margarita to enhance the bright, seafood flavors of the dish.
• Summer Gathering Spread: Add grilled corn, black beans, or a light quinoa salad to round out the meal and create a complete, satisfying dinner for friends and family.

Storage Tips For Shrimp Tacos That Last

• Store leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Separate the components (shrimp, slaw, and sauce) to maintain freshness and prevent soggy tortillas.
• Warm shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent drying. Alternatively, use the microwave in 15-second intervals to avoid overcooking.
• Quickly warm tortillas on a hot skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap in damp paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds to restore softness.
• Keep cilantro sauce separate and add fresh sauce when serving to maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor.

FAQs

• How spicy are these grilled shrimp tacos?

The recipe uses red pepper flakes for a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount to increase or decrease heat according to your preference. If you want less spice, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them completely.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure proper grilling and prevent excess moisture.

• Do I need special equipment to make these tacos?

You’ll need a grill and skewers. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the shrimp in the oven. Metal or wooden skewers work fine, but if using wooden skewers, soak them in water first to prevent burning.

Grilled Shrimp Tacos With That Cilantro Cream Dream

• Whip up a delicious meal in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner plans.
• Enjoy a burst of zesty spices and herbs that transform ordinary shrimp into a mouthwatering main course.
• Adapt the recipe to suit different taste preferences by adjusting spice levels or swapping ingredients for a personalized touch.
• Combine nutritious shrimp with a crisp slaw and light cilantro sauce for a balanced, wholesome meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Cilantro Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Succulent grilled shrimp tacos with creamy cilantro sauce offer a zesty Mexican-inspired culinary adventure. Crisp tortillas, perfectly charred shrimp, and tangy sauce create a harmonious blend of flavors that will delight you.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 2 lb (910 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 24 corn tortillas

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce and Garnish Ingredients:

• 1 cup (230 g) sour cream
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded green cabbage
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded red cabbage
• 1 tablespoon minced jalapeno
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedge
• 24 bamboo or metal skewers

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Instructions

1. Marinate the shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and aromatic.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, piercing through the top and bottom of each piece to secure them firmly, aiming for about 4 shrimp per skewer.
3. Generously coat the skewered shrimp with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance grilling performance.
4. Grill the shrimp over high heat for approximately 3 minutes per side, turning once, until they transform into a lovely opaque color with light charred edges. Remove from grill and carefully slide shrimp off skewers.
5. Prepare the creamy cilantro sauce by blending sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime zest, salt, and lime juice until smooth and well-incorporated.
6. Create a vibrant slaw by mixing green and red cabbage with diced jalapeno, then dress with half the prepared cilantro sauce, tossing until vegetables are thoroughly coated.
7. Construct tacos by layering tortillas with slaw, grilled shrimp, drizzling remaining cilantro sauce, garnishing with extra cilantro, and finishing with a bright squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

• Spice Customization: Adjust the spice blend to suit your taste preferences by increasing or decreasing red pepper flakes for heat levels.
• Skewer Hack: Use two parallel skewers to prevent shrimp from spinning when grilling, ensuring even cooking and easier handling.
• Marinade Option: For deeper flavor, marinate shrimp in the seasoning mix for 15-30 minutes before grilling to enhance taste absorption.
• Dietary Adaptations: Swap corn tortillas for lettuce wraps to make the dish low-carb, or use plant-based sour cream for a vegan-friendly version.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 405
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 460 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg