Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! These fried shrimp tacos are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. They're bursting with fresh, zesty flavors and offer a satisfying crunch that's hard to resist. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea. Get ready to elevate your taco night!
Ingredients:
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
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For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup pico de gallo (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, diced
- Lime wedges, for serving
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For the Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing (optional):
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can heat them in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven.
- Fill each tortilla with the fried shrimp, shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, cilantro, and diced avocado.
- Drizzle with the creamy cilantro-lime dressing (optional).
- Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp Tacos:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy shrimp. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and other spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and the dressing ahead of time and assemble the tacos just before serving. This is a great option for entertaining.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as shredded cheese, pickled onions, or a mango salsa.
Variations:
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: For a healthier option, grill the shrimp instead of frying them. Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and your favorite spices before grilling.
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño to the shrimp batter for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy shrimp tacos. It's a great healthy meal option, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Enjoy!