When it comes to tantalizing your taste buds with fresh and vibrant flavors, few dishes can rival grilled shrimp tacos. Bursting with flavor and delightfully easy to prepare, these tacos offer a delightful twist on traditional street food. With succulent shrimp grilled to perfection, crisp coleslaw, and creamy spicy mayo all wrapped up in warm tortillas, you’ll find yourself asking for seconds. In today’s article, let’s delve into this delicious recipe, exploring its key components and why it deserves a spot at your dinner table.
Why We Love This Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Grilled shrimp tacos stand out among other taco varieties for several reasons. Firstly, they embody the essence of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together seamlessly. The juicy shrimp, seasoned and grilled, provide a smoky depth, while the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the dish beautifully. Furthermore, the creamy and spicy mayo drizzled over creates a flavor explosion with every bite. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Whether you are hosting friends for a casual dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, grilled shrimp tacos bring joy and satisfaction with every mouthful.
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Gathering quality ingredients is key to making your grilled shrimp tacos a success. Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering feast:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups Mexican coleslaw (or 2 cups shredded red cabbage)
- 8 tortillas
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula)
- A handful of fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 2 limes, cut into wedges, for serving
With these fresh and flavorful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful meal.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Tacos Directions
Creating grilled shrimp tacos is a simple yet rewarding endeavor. Follow these easy steps to whip up this amazing dish:
- Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high direct heat, around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for cooking the shrimp evenly while giving them a nice char.
- Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt. Make sure every shrimp is coated evenly with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Coleslaw: If you’re using pre-made Mexican coleslaw, you’re all set! If not, shred the red cabbage and sprinkle it with a bit of lime juice and kosher salt. This helps draw out the cabbage’s moisture and enhances its flavor.
- Mix Spicy Mayo: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Mexican hot sauce. Mix them well to create a creamy and zesty sauce that will elevate your tacos.
- Warm the Tortillas: Place the tortillas on the grill for about 10 seconds per side. This quick warming will help make them pliable and infuse them with a smoky flavor.
- Grill the Shrimp: Place the seasoned shrimp directly on the grill. Grill them for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn bright pink and are cooked through. The key is to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
- Assemble Your Tacos: Now comes the fun part! Take a tortilla, add a generous scoop of coleslaw, top it with the grilled shrimp, and give it a drizzle of spicy mayo. Finally, garnish with torn cilantro leaves and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for that extra zing.
With these straightforward steps, you can create a plate of grilled shrimp tacos that will impress anyone fortunate enough to join you for dinner.
How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Presentation matters when it comes to serving delicious food. Start off by arranging your tacos on a large platter, making them visually appealing. You can also serve them with an extra side of lime wedges to allow guests to add a dash of fresh juice to their tacos. Consider adding a side of chips and salsa or a refreshing dip such as guacamole for an even more delightful experience. Don’t forget to place a bowl of your spicy mayo on the table for those who want a little extra heat. These little touches will enhance your meal and create a fantastic dining atmosphere.
Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Tacos
To help you achieve taco perfection, here are some expert tips:
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp or even jumbo shrimp for a satisfying bite. Fresh shrimp are preferred, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them correctly before grilling.
- Don’t Over-marinate: While seasoning is essential, be cautious not to let the shrimp sit in the marinade for too long. One hour is sufficient—over-marinating can lead to a mushy texture.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking turns them rubbery. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the grill as soon as they are opaque and pink.
- Customize the Spice: If you want more heat in your tacos, feel free to add more hot sauce to the mayo or sprinkle some chili flakes into the coleslaw.
- Experiment with Tortillas: You can use corn or flour tortillas based on personal preference. Corn tortillas yield a more traditional taste, while flour tortillas offer a delightful softness.
Following these tips will ensure your grilled shrimp tacos are a hit at any gathering!
How to Store Grilled Shrimp Tacos
If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely), storing is simple. First, separate the components to maintain their texture. Store the grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The coleslaw can be kept in a separate airtight container, while tortillas should be wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet or microwave, warm the tortillas briefly, and assemble once again!
Variations of Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Feel free to get adventurous with your grilled shrimp tacos! Here are some ideas for variations that can make taco night even more exciting:
- Tropical Twist: Add fresh pineapple or mango salsa to your tacos for a sweet and tangy addition. You can even replace the coleslaw with a fruit salad for a refreshing change.
- Asian Inspiration: Use a sesame dressing for your slaw instead of a spicy mayo, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
- Avocado Love: Incorporate sliced avocado or guacamole for a rich and creamy texture that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the shrimp for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian twist that retains all the flavors.
These variations make grilled shrimp tacos versatile and suitable for any palate!
FAQs About Grilled Shrimp Tacos
What goes well with grilled shrimp tacos?
Grilled shrimp tacos pair beautifully with sides such as Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh fruit salad. A chilled beverage like iced tea or a fruity mocktail can complement the meal perfectly.
Can I grill shrimp on the stove?
Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the shrimp using a grill pan or even sauté them in a skillet on the stove. Just ensure your pan is hot enough to achieve that lovely sear.
Can I make the coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving!
Are grilled shrimp tacos healthy?
Definitely! Grilled shrimp are low in calories and packed with protein. Pairing them with fresh vegetables and whole tortillas adds to their nutritional value, making them a healthy meal option.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined Opt for fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Tacos
- 2 cups Mexican coleslaw (or shredded red cabbage) Use pre-made for convenience, or prepare from scratch.
- 8 pieces tortillas Corn or flour tortillas can be used.
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula) Adjust to taste.
- 1 handful fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 2 pieces limes, cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a medium bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt until evenly coated.
- If using fresh red cabbage, shred it and sprinkle with lime juice and kosher salt to enhance flavor.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise and Mexican hot sauce to prepare the spicy mayo.
- Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 10 seconds per side.
Grilling
- Grill the seasoned shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until just cooked through and bright pink.
Assembly
- Assemble the tacos by placing a tortilla on a plate, adding a scoop of coleslaw, topping with grilled shrimp, and drizzling with spicy mayo.
- Garnish with torn cilantro leaves and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
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