Description
These Quick Shrimp Tacos are a speedy and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and cumin are pan-cooked to juicy perfection, then topped with crisp cabbage, tangy red onion, and a creamy taco sauce. Charred tortillas add a smoky touch, making every bite delicious and satisfying. Ready in just 20 minutes and serving eight, this recipe brings fresh, zesty flavors to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, thawed and deveined (peeled or unpeeled)
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (purchased or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 limes, cut into wedges, divided
Vegetables
- 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Cilantro, for garnish
Other
- 8 tortillas
- 1 recipe Creamy Shrimp Taco Sauce (prepared separately)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Make the Creamy Shrimp Taco Sauce according to your favorite recipe or a provided one. Chill it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Prep the Vegetables: Thinly slice the green cabbage. Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow its sharpness; drain well before serving.
- Season the Shrimp: Mince the garlic. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then place them in a medium bowl. Toss with Old Bay seasoning, cumin, kosher salt, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through, turning them with tongs as needed. Squeeze the juice of two lime wedges over the cooked shrimp for brightness.
- Char the Tortillas (Optional): For extra flavor, char the tortillas by placing each one over an open gas flame on medium heat for a few seconds per side until slightly blackened and warmed. Alternatively, warm them in a skillet.
- Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, layer sliced cabbage and red onion on each tortilla. Top with cooked shrimp, then squeeze the juice of a lime wedge over each taco. Drizzle with Creamy Shrimp Taco Sauce and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Soaking the red onion in cold water helps reduce its sharpness, making it milder and more pleasant in the tacos.
- If you prefer, you can use pre-made taco sauce to save time.
- Peeling the shrimp is optional; unpeeled shrimp add more texture but peeled are easier to eat.
- Adjust the seasoning quantities to suit your taste preferences.
- To make the dish gluten-free, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
