Shrimp tacos with avocado crema have become my absolute go-to for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. I remember the first time I tried making them at home; I was a little intimidated, but the process was surprisingly simple! The aroma of the smoky spices hitting the hot pan, followed by the vibrant, zesty scent of the homemade avocado crema, filled my kitchen and had my family gathering around before I even finished plating. This easy shrimp tacos avocado crema recipe is a game-changer, offering a burst of freshness and satisfying spice in every bite. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
You’ll adore these shrimp tacos because they’re incredibly versatile and packed with flavor:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: Smoky, spiced shrimp meets a cool, zesty avocado crema.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels or add your favorite toppings.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and healthy fats from the avocado.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit for parties or family dinners.
- Homemade Goodness: The homemade avocado crema is far superior to store-bought.
- Fresh & Vibrant: The combination of crunchy slaw and creamy sauce is irresistible.
Ingredients for Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
Gather these ingredients for the most delicious homemade shrimp tacos avocado crema:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined – the star of our easy shrimp tacos!
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the shrimp
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – for that signature smoky flavor
- 0.5 tsp chili powder – adds a gentle kick
- 0.5 tsp ground cumin – earthy and warm
- 0.25 tsp garlic powder – essential savory note
- 0.25 tsp onion powder – complements the garlic
- 0.25 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 0.25 tsp black pepper – for a touch of heat
- 0.5 lime, juiced – brightens the shrimp seasoning
- 1 ripe avocado – the creamy base for our luscious avocado crema for shrimp tacos
- 0.25 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream – for extra creaminess and tang
- 1 clove garlic – for punchy flavor in the crema
- 1 lime, juiced – crucial for that zesty avocado crema for shrimp tacos
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro – fresh, herbaceous notes in the crema
- 2 tbsp water (optional, to thin) – adjust to your desired crema consistency
- 0.25 tsp salt – for seasoning the crema
- 6 small corn tortillas – the perfect vessel for your tacos
- 1 cup green cabbage, shredded – for a fresh, crunchy element
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded – adds color and crunch
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) – a final burst of freshness
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving) – for an extra squeeze of bright flavor
How to Make Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
- Step 1: Let’s start by prepping our flavorful shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss the 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with 1 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle in the 1 tsp smoked paprika, 0.5 tsp chili powder, 0.5 tsp ground cumin, 0.25 tsp garlic powder, 0.25 tsp onion powder, 0.25 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Add the juice from 0.5 lime. Toss everything together until the shrimp are beautifully coated. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to let those smoky spices really work their magic. This step is crucial for infusing them with flavor for your shrimp tacos with avocado crema.
- Step 2: While the shrimp marinates, whip up the star of the show: the avocado crema. Grab a blender or food processor and combine 1 ripe avocado, 0.25 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, the juice from 1 lime, 1 clove garlic, and 2 tbsp fresh cilantro. Add 0.25 tsp salt. Blend until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, stir in 2 tbsp water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency. Taste it and adjust the salt or lime if needed. Pop this in the fridge to chill.
- Step 3: For a bit of crunch, prepare your slaw. In a separate bowl, simply mix together 1 cup green cabbage, shredded and 1 cup red cabbage, shredded. You can toss it with a tiny squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt if you like, but keeping it crisp and fresh is key.
- Step 4: Now for the shrimp! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. You don’t want to overcrowd the pan, so cook them in batches if necessary. Sear the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side. You’re looking for them to turn pink and develop those lovely little crispy edges. This quick searing ensures juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp for your easy shrimp tacos avocado crema.
- Step 5: Gently warm your 6 small corn tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20–30 seconds per side, or carefully char them directly over a gas flame for a few seconds. Once warm and pliable, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them from drying out while you assemble.
- Step 6: Time to build your perfect shrimp tacos! Start with a base of the shredded cabbage on each warm tortilla. Top generously with the pan-seared shrimp. Now, drizzle that luscious, homemade avocado crema all over. Finish with a sprinkle of 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness. Enjoy your homemade shrimp tacos avocado crema!
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
Elevate your shrimp tacos with these simple tips for amazing results:
- Don’t skip the marinating time for the shrimp; it really infuses them with flavor for your shrimp tacos avocado crema.
- For the creamiest avocado crema, ensure your avocado is perfectly ripe – no brown spots!
- When searing shrimp, a hot pan is crucial. This ensures a nice sear without overcooking, keeping them tender.
- Warm your tortillas properly; cold, stiff tortillas can ruin the experience. A quick warm-up makes them pliable.
What’s the secret to perfect Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema?
The real secret to perfect shrimp tacos avocado crema lies in the balance of smoky, spiced shrimp and that ultra-creamy, zesty avocado crema. Using ripe avocado and fresh lime juice in the crema is non-negotiable for that vibrant flavor. For more information on the benefits of fresh ingredients, check out Harvard Health Publishing.
Can I make Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prep elements ahead! The avocado crema can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just press some plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning. The shrimp can also be seasoned ahead and refrigerated. For other make-ahead meal ideas, consider these dinner recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema?
Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery. Also, don’t over-blend the avocado crema – you want it smooth but not watery. Finally, make sure your tortillas are warm and soft before filling. If you’re looking for more tips on cooking seafood, this guide on cooking shrimp is very helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
These easy shrimp tacos avocado crema are fantastic on their own, but here are a few ideas to make your meal even more special. Serve them with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a complete dinner. A simple corn salad with some red onion and bell peppers also pairs wonderfully, adding another layer of freshness. For a truly authentic experience, try serving these shrimp tacos with creamy avocado sauce alongside some pickled jalapeños and a dollop of pico de gallo for an extra kick.
Nutrition Facts for Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for these fantastic shrimp tacos avocado crema, per serving (which includes 2 tacos):
- Calories: 410
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
Properly storing your leftovers is key to enjoying these delicious shrimp tacos avocado crema later. Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover shrimp and slaw mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The avocado crema is best stored separately in a small, sealed container, again in the refrigerator. While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze components for longer storage. For the shrimp and slaw, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Unfortunately, the avocado crema doesn’t freeze well due to its texture. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and slaw in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave for a minute or two, stirring halfway. Then, top with fresh avocado crema for the best taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema
Can I use different types of shrimp for these tacos?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for pan-searing, you can certainly use pre-cooked shrimp for an even quicker meal. Just warm them through instead of searing. If you’re grilling, larger, shell-on shrimp work wonderfully for grilled shrimp tacos, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with these shrimp tacos avocado crema?
These shrimp tacos are quite a complete meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with classic Mexican sides. Consider serving them with fluffy Mexican rice, seasoned black beans, or a fresh corn salsa. A simple side salad with a lime vinaigrette also complements the richness of the avocado crema for shrimp tacos perfectly. For more side dish inspiration, check out these appetizer and side recipes.
How do I make the avocado crema spicier?
For those who love a bit more heat, you can easily amp up the spice in the avocado crema. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the blender with the other crema ingredients. You can also add a finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat, left in for more) for a fresh, spicy kick in your spicy shrimp tacos.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, these shrimp tacos avocado crema healthy are a great option! Shrimp is a lean protein, and avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats. Using Greek yogurt in the crema also adds protein and probiotics. The recipe focuses on fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious choice compared to many other taco options. We’ve kept the added sugars low and focused on whole ingredients. For other healthy meal ideas, explore our dinner recipes.
Variations of Shrimp Tacos Avocado Crema You Can Try
Looking to switch things up? These variations on our classic shrimp tacos avocado crema are fantastic:
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño to the shrimp seasoning. For an extra kick in the crema, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: For a smoky, outdoor flavor, try grilling your shrimp instead of pan-searing. Toss the shrimp with the spices and grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through. These grilled shrimp tacos are perfect for summer BBQs.
- Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Avocado Crema: If you want an even brighter flavor profile, amp up the cilantro and lime in the crema. This variation highlights the fresh, zesty notes that make these tacos so irresistible.
- Sheet Pan Shrimp Tacos: For ultimate ease, toss your seasoned shrimp and some chopped bell peppers and onions on a sheet pan. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until shrimp are pink. Serve with the pre-made avocado crema for a super quick meal.
Shrimp Tacos: 1 Amazing Avocado Crema Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Shrimp Tacos with Homemade Avocado Crema feature juicy, pan-seared shrimp coated in smoky spices, layered with crunchy cabbage slaw in warm corn tortillas, and finished with a creamy, zesty avocado crema. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party dish, offering bold flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp chili powder
- 0.5 tsp ground cumin
- 0.25 tsp garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp onion powder
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 lime, juiced
- 1 ripe avocado
- 0.25 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp water (optional, to thin)
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 6 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a tablespoon or two of water to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill until ready to use.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded green and red cabbage. You can toss it with a tiny squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt if you’d like a lightly dressed slaw. Keep it crisp and fresh.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until pink and slightly crisp at the edges. Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed.
- Lightly warm the tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for 20–30 seconds per side, until soft and slightly charred. Keep them wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay warm and pliable.
- Start by layering shredded cabbage on each tortilla, followed by a few shrimp. Drizzle generously with the avocado crema and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Let the shrimp sit in the spice mix for 10 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Make the avocado crema ahead of time to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp — they’re done as soon as they turn opaque and curl.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the Greek yogurt in the crema with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 170mg