Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado

Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 corn tortillas; 2 ripe avocados, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; 1/2 cup sour cream; Juice of 1 lime; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Season Kitchen

I absolutely love making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado! This recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of spices, and the creamy avocado adds a delightful contrast. Every time I serve these tacos, they vanish in minutes. The fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors make this dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. I promise you won't be able to resist the delightful combination of heat from the shrimp and coolness from the avocado!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:59:10.339Z

While experimenting with taco night, I decided to combine my love for shrimp and avocados. I tried different spice blends until I found the perfect balance that enhances the shrimp without overpowering it. The addition of lime juice not only brightens the flavor but also helps to tenderize the shrimp, making each bite a burst of freshness.

To elevate the dish, I serve the tacos with a drizzle of homemade lime crema. This creamy topping brings all the elements together beautifully, making these tacos a beloved staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfectly spiced shrimp that pack a flavorful punch
Creamy avocado that complements the heat of the spices
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh shrimp for this taco recipe is crucial for achieving that succulent texture. When selecting shrimp, look for firm, translucent bodies without an off-putting smell. Fresh shrimp will result in a cleaner, crisper bite, making every taco experience satisfying. If you're in a pinch, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture during cooking.

Similarly, the avocados should be ripe but not too soft. A perfect avocado will yield slightly to gentle pressure and should have a vibrant green color. If you're preparing this dish in advance, consider adding the avocado right before serving to prevent browning, which can detract from the visual appeal and texture of your tacos.

Key Cooking Techniques

When marinating the shrimp, don't skip the time—10 minutes is ideal for the spices to infuse properly. However, avoid letting them marinate for too long or the texture can break down, becoming mushy. This quick infusion of flavor is key to ensuring a balanced taste with the creamy avocado.

For cooking the shrimp, use medium-high heat and keep a close eye on them. They should turn pink and form a light char in about 3-4 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to tough shrimp, so aim for just cooked through, where they are opaque and have a slight crisp on the edges.

Customizing Your Tacos

Feel free to customize these tacos based on personal preference. Adding diced tomatoes or sliced radishes can bring extra freshness and crunch. For those who like more heat, tossing in some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinating shrimp can elevate the spiciness.

If you have dietary restrictions or simply want to try a different flavor profile, you can substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or plant-based alternatives such as tempeh. Just ensure that any alternative protein is seasoned well and cooked thoroughly to maintain the integrity of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado:

Taco Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
8 corn tortillas
2 ripe avocados, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Lime Crema

1/2 cup sour cream
Juice of 1 lime
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting to cook for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spicy Shrimp Tacos:

Prepare the Lime Crema

In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through.

Warm the Tortillas

In another skillet, warm the corn tortillas until they are pliable, about 30 seconds on each side.

Assemble the Tacos

Place cooked shrimp on warm tortillas, add sliced avocado, a drizzle of lime crema, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Spicy Shrimp Tacos!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp for longer if you have the time. You can also substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing your lime crema ahead of time is a game-changer for quick assembly. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld and deepen, making for a richer topping when you’re ready to use it.

For the shrimp, consider marinating them a few hours in advance. This can save you time during dinner prep and allows the spices to permeate even more deeply. Just be sure to keep them refrigerated until it's time to cook.

Serving Suggestions

These spicy shrimp tacos are fantastic as a main dish, but they also make excellent appetizers. Serve them on a small plate with a lime wedge, making it easy for guests to enjoy a bite-sized version. Pair with a cold beverage like a Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita to balance the spice.

If you want to turn this into a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Mexican rice or a light salad of cucumber and tomato for a refreshing contrast. This completes the meal and adds even more color and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

While the shrimp is best served fresh, you can prepare the lime crema and slice the avocados ahead of time.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can use chicken, tofu, or fish fillets as a substitute for shrimp.

→ Are these tacos spicy?

Yes, they have a kick! Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover shrimp and avocado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.