Shrimp tacos, with their vibrant medley of flavors, have a way of turning an ordinary meal into a festive culinary escape. There’s a certain thrill in tucking plump, garlicky shrimp into the embrace of a soft tortilla, each one a canvas for the bright notes of cilantro and the zest of lime. On evenings when my palate longs for a burst of freshness and the kitchen becomes a space for playful experimentation, these tacos are my go-to.
The allure of crafting this dish lies in its simplicity and the speed with which it comes together—a perfect antidote to a busy day. It’s about the sizzle of shrimp hitting the pan, the aromatic wave of garlic filling the air, and the verdant sprinkle of cilantro adding a final flourish of color and flavor. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, shrimp tacos promise a moment of joy, a bite-sized celebration of life’s zestier side. Join me as we explore the tantalizing combination of succulent seafood and bold seasonings, all wrapped up in the warm hug of a taco shell.
Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro Recipe
Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro are a vibrant and flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of fresh, coastal cuisine. They feature succulent shrimp seasoned with a fragrant blend of garlic and cilantro, offering a harmonious balance between the seafood’s natural sweetness and the herbs’ bright, aromatic qualities. The tacos are typically assembled in soft tortillas and can be adorned with various toppings such as sliced avocado, cabbage slaw, or a squeeze of lime juice to add texture and zesty notes. This dish is celebrated for its simplicity and the quick cooking time of shrimp, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and delightful to the palate. Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro are not just a dish but an experience, evoking the joy of seaside dining and the pleasure of sharing good food with others.
Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
Ingredients
- Garlic And Cilantro Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cilantro leaves
- 2 cloves of garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Juice of 2 lemons or limes
- ½ cup Fage Greek yogurt
- Ingredients For The Shrimp Tacos
- 1 lb. shrimp peeled and deveined, tails removed.
- 1 teaspoon each chili powder cumin, and triguisar condiment (or any other spice you like)
- 2-3 cups shredded cabbage
- 8-10 small corn tortillas
- 1-2 avocados
- Cotija cheese and additional cilantro for topping
- Lime/lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- CHOP cilantro leaves and green onions
- CRUSHED garlic
- PULSE all the ingredients for the sauce, oil, water, green onions, cilantro, garlic, salt, lime/lemon juice EXCEPT the Greek yogurt. When smooth, add the Greek yogurt and pulse until combined. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Set aside.
- MIX the spices
- PAT dries the shrimp with paper towels
- GRATE the cabbage
- TOSS some of the sauce (not all) with the cabbage until the cabbage is coated with the sauce. It should look like coleslaw. Set aside.
- SPRINKLE the shrimp with the spices and mix well
- HEAT a drizzle of oil on a large skillet over medium heat.
- ADD the shrimp to the hot pan and sauté for 5-8 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through.
- SLICE the avocado in very thin slices.
- WARM the tortillas
- SERVE tacos by placing some shrimps, add the cabbage, a slice of avocado, top with the cotija cheese and ENJOY! You may add more of the sauce to the tacos!
Video
How to cook Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro air fryer
Cooking Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro in an air fryer is a delightful dance of ease and flavor. The air fryer, with its swift circulation of hot air, brings out the succulence of the shrimp while infusing them with the aromatic embrace of garlic and cilantro. It’s a method that speaks to the heart’s desire for a quick yet flavorful meal. As the shrimp sizzle in their basket, the kitchen becomes a sanctuary of scents, promising a zesty feast. The tacos come together in moments, a testament to the joy of a meal that doesn’t keep you waiting. Serve them with a flourish of fresh toppings, and watch as each bite brings a burst of joy, a celebration of flavors that feels both indulgent and wonderfully simple.
Tips for making Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro
Cooking Tips
Crafting Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro is a vibrant culinary adventure, each taco a celebration of flavor. For the juiciest shrimp, marinate briefly in garlic and cilantro, letting the herbs kiss the seafood with their aromatic charm. Cook them just until they’re pink and tender, avoiding overcooking to preserve their delicate texture. Embrace fresh toppings—crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, a squeeze of lime—to complement the warmth of the shrimp. The tortillas, lightly charred, become the perfect vessel for this medley. As you assemble each taco, there’s a sense of joy in the simplicity of the process, a reminder that great food need not be complex. Serve immediately, and watch as each bite brings a burst of joy, a symphony of flavors that sings of carefree summer evenings and the pleasure of good food shared.
Serving suggestion
Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro are a feast for the senses, a dish that sings of freshness and zest. Serve them cradled in warm tortillas, the shrimp glistening with garlic and cilantro’s verdant hues. Invite diners to top their taco with a rainbow of accompaniments—crunchy red cabbage, creamy avocado slices, and a spritz of lime to brighten every bite. It’s a convivial dish, one that encourages laughter and sharing as hands reach for just one more. There’s a playful elegance in its simplicity, a reminder that food is not just sustenance but a celebration of flavor and fellowship.
Top 5 FAQs about Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro
- What is the best way to prepare shrimp for tacos to ensure they are flavorful and not overcooked? The key to flavorful, tender shrimp is to marinate them briefly in a mixture of garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and spices before cooking. They should be cooked quickly, usually 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque, to avoid becoming tough and rubbery.
- Can Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro be made gluten-free or low-carb? Yes, to make them gluten-free, ensure that the tortillas used are made from corn or another gluten-free grain. For a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas or create a shrimp taco salad with the same ingredients minus the tortilla.
- How can I add more vegetables to Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro? Incorporate a variety of vegetables by adding toppings like shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions. You can also include sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms directly with the shrimp for added nutrition and flavor.
- What are some creative ways to serve Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro? For a fun twist, serve the shrimp and toppings buffet-style, allowing guests to build their own tacos. Another idea is to present mini taco bites using small tortillas for appetizers or a party platter.
- How should leftovers of Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro be stored? Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking. It’s best to store the tortillas and toppings separately to maintain their freshness and texture.
Shrimp Tacos with Garlic and Cilantro are a culinary ode to the simplicity and freshness that can be found in the heart of coastal cuisine. They encapsulate the joy of seaside flavors, marrying the sweetness of shrimp with the vibrant kick of garlic and cilantro. This dish is more than just a quick meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a breezy beachfront with every bite. The soft tortillas serve as a delicate vessel for the richly seasoned seafood, while the array of toppings adds texture and zest, creating a harmonious balance that delights the senses. Perfect for any occasion, from a laid-back family dinner to a festive gathering, these tacos are a testament to the beauty of fresh ingredients coming together in a simple yet spectacular display of culinary artistry.