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Healthy Mexican Shrimp Tacos - Fresh, Fast, and Flavorful

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails off)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Zest of 1 lime + juice of 1/2 lime
  • For the Slaw: 2 cups shredded green or purple cabbage (or a mix)
  • 1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the Crema: 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light sour cream)
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp honey or agave
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated or pressed
  • Pinch of salt
  • For Serving: 8 small corn or whole-wheat tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Lime wedges
  • Extra cilantro, chopped
  • Optional: thinly sliced radishes, pico de gallo, or hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Make the slaw: In a bowl, toss cabbage, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro with lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit while you prep the shrimp so it softens slightly and absorbs the flavors.
  2. Mix the crema: Stir together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lime juice, honey, garlic, and salt. Adjust lime or salt to taste. Set aside.
  3. Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice. Toss shrimp to coat evenly.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. Do not overcook. Remove from heat.
  5. Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet 30 seconds per side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds until pliable.
  6. Assemble the tacos: Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla. Top with shrimp, a drizzle of crema, and avocado slices. Finish with cilantro, radishes, and a squeeze of lime.
  7. Serve immediately: Enjoy while the tortillas are warm and the shrimp are juicy.