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Refreshing Shrimp Tacos with Slaw and Avocade Crema

These refreshing tacos will hit the spot without bogging you down!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8 small tacos
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean, Mexican
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • For the Zesty Slaw:
  • 2 cups Green Cabbage finely shredded
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • For the Avocado Crema:
  • 1 large Avocado pitted and peeled
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon Salt
  • For Assembly:
  • 8 to 12 Small Flour or Corn Tortillas
  • 1 Lime cut into wedges for serving
  • Optional: 1 Jalapeno thinly sliced

Equipment

  • Fry or Saute pan
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and chopped cilantro.
  2. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, vegetable oil, and salt. Do not pour the dressing over the cabbage until about 10 minutes before you are ready to eat.
  3. Set the bowl in the refrigerator to keep the vegetable cell walls rigid.
  4. In a food processor or using a sturdy whisk and a bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
  5. Incorporate the sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is aerated and light.
  6. If the mixture is too thick, add one teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches a "drizzlable" consistency.
  7. Cover and refrigerate immediately.
  8. Take your peeled and deveined shrimp and place them on a layer of paper towels.
  9. Pat them dry thoroughly on both sides.
  10. Once dry, place the shrimp in a bowl and toss with the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and one tablespoon of the vegetable oil. Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated in the spice rub.
  11. Place a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
  12. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
  13. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add the shrimp in a single layer.
  14. Cook the shrimp for 90 seconds on the first side without moving them. You will see the edges turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 60 to 90 seconds. Use a digital thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the shrimp has reached 145°F.
  15. Once they form a "C" shape, remove them immediately from the pan to a clean plate.
  16. Retrieve the slaw and the crema from the refrigerator.
  17. Toss the cabbage with its dressing now. Lay out a warm tortilla.
  18. Place a generous spoonful of the zesty slaw in the center.
  19. Top with 3 or 4 seared shrimp.
  20. Drizzle the avocado crema over the top.

Notes

Troubleshooting and Professional Tips

  • The Rubbery Shrimp Fail: If your shrimp are tough, they have surpassed 155°F. Next time, pull them off the heat when they are slightly translucent in the center of the "thick" part; the carry-over heat will finish the job safely.
  • The Soggy Tortilla: If your tacos are falling apart, you may have too much moisture in your slaw. Use a slotted spoon to serve the cabbage, leaving the excess lime juice and water in the bowl.
  • Air Fryer Method: For a quicker weeknight version, you can cook the seasoned shrimp in an air fryer at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This provides a consistent "snap" to the protein without the need for constant monitoring at the stove.
  • Flavor Swaps: If you prefer a fruitier profile, replace half of the cabbage in the slaw with diced mango or pineapple. The natural sugars in the fruit complement the smokiness of the paprika and cumin.
  • Storage: Seared shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best "refreshing" quality, always prepare the slaw and crema fresh. Do not freeze the assembled tacos or the avocado crema, as the texture of the dairy and produce will degrade significantly.