Pin it
Grilled shrimp tacos bring together smoky seasoned seafood, crispy slaw, and creamy dressing, creating a burst of flavors that transform an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary. This recipe captures the essence of beachside dining while being surprisingly simple to prepare in your own kitchen.
Last summer, I served these tacos at a family gathering, and they disappeared within minutes. The combination of the smoky grilled shrimp and the cool, creamy slaw had everyone asking for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Tacos
- Medium shrimp: Look for fresh, pink shrimp that feel firm to touch. Wild caught Gulf shrimp offer the sweetest flavor
- Light brown sugar: This creates a subtle caramelization on the grill and balances the spices perfectly
- Smoked paprika: Adds an authentic grilled flavor even when cooking indoors
- Fresh lime zest: Brightens the entire dish and enhances the seafood's natural sweetness
- Corn tortillas: Choose tortillas made with just corn, lime, and salt for the most authentic flavor
Creating Your Perfect Tacos
- Prepare the Spice Blend:
- Mix brown sugar and spices until well combined. Incorporate fresh lime zest to release the citrus oils. Reserve a portion for the slaw dressing.
- Season the Shrimp:
- Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Coat evenly with olive oil and spice mixture. Allow flavors to develop for exactly 15 minutes.
- Create the Signature Slaw:
- Combine fresh coleslaw mix with seasoned sour cream. Toss gently until every piece is coated. Let rest for flavors to meld together.
- Grill to Perfection:
- Heat grill until you can hold your hand over it for only 3 seconds. Arrange shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Watch for the perfect pink color and slight char.
Pin it
Growing up in a coastal town, I learned the importance of not overcooking shrimp from my grandfather, who was a shrimper. He always said perfectly cooked shrimp should snap when you bite into them.
Perfect Pairings
Fresh lime wedges, Mexican street corn, and chilled cerveza complement these tacos beautifully. For a family style feast, set out bowls of diced avocado, pickled red onions, and extra cilantro.
Customize Your Tacos
Transform this recipe by adding mango salsa for sweetness, pickled jalapeños for heat, or swap the sour cream with Mexican crema. For a lighter version, serve the grilled shrimp over lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.
Keep It Fresh
Store components separately in airtight containers. The shrimp stays fresh for two days, while the slaw maintains its crunch for up to 24 hours. Warm tortillas just before serving to prevent them from becoming chewy.
Pin it
After years of making these tacos, I've found they're not just a meal, they're a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that create something truly memorable. Whether you're cooking for two or twenty, these tacos never fail to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I marinate the shrimp?
- Marinate the shrimp for 15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the meat without making it too tough.
- → Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
- While it's best to grill the shrimp just before serving, you can prepare the spice mix and slaw up to 24 hours in advance.
- → What's the best way to warm corn tortillas?
- Toast the corn tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side until they're warm and slightly charred.
- → How do I know when the shrimp are done?
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque - be careful not to overcook them.
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
- Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure proper seasoning absorption.