Spicy Shrimp Tacos (with Coconut Flour Tortillas or Lettuce Wraps)
A quick, zesty, and customizable taco recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Gluten-free, Keto-friendly (with lettuce wraps)
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large skillet or griddle
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- (Optional) Blender for sauces
INGREDIENTS
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil for cooking
For Serving:
- 8-10 coconut flour tortillas OR large lettuce leaves
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges
METHOD
1. Season Shrimp
- Combine shrimp with lime juice and all seasonings in a bowl.
- Let marinate for 5 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Prep Garnishes
- Slice avocado.
- Shred cabbage.
- Chop cilantro.
- Prepare any additional toppings.
3. Cook Shrimp
- Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat immediately when done.
4. Warm Tortillas
- Heat coconut flour tortillas briefly (30 seconds per side).
- Or prepare lettuce leaves if using.
5. Assemble
- Layer tortillas/lettuce with shrimp.
- Top with cabbage, avocado, cilantro.
- Add jalapeños if desired.
- Serve with lime wedges.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should be just pink and opaque.
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning for better sear.
- Prepare all toppings before cooking shrimp.
- For best results, use room temperature shrimp.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Cooked shrimp: 3 days refrigerated.
- Keep toppings separate.
- Don’t pre-assemble tacos.
Variations:
- Buffalo style: Toss cooked shrimp in buffalo sauce.
- Tequila-lime: Add a splash of tequila to the pan while cooking.
- Mango-habanero: Add diced mango and habanero sauce.
Common Mistakes:
- Overcrowding the pan.
- Using wet shrimp (leads to steaming instead of searing).
- Not having toppings ready before cooking.
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality tacos in under 30 minutes, perfect for those craving a healthy yet satisfying meal.
