Barbecue Shrimp Tacos

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 6 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Get ready to spice up your taco night with these mouthwatering Barbecue Shrimp Tacos! They're a smoky, tangy delight that's perfect for grilling season or whenever you're craving a taste of summer.

Ingredients for Barbecue Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp is the star of this dish, providing a sweet and succulent base that pairs beautifully with smoky barbecue flavors. Olive oil helps the spices adhere to the shrimp while adding a subtle richness. The spice blend — smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper — infuses the shrimp with a smoky, spicy kick. For the slaw, red cabbage and carrot add crunch and color, while cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar create a zesty and creamy contrast. Corn tortillas are the perfect vessel, adding a slight sweetness that complements the spice, and avocado brings a creamy finish that balances the heat.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but if you're using frozen, make sure they're completely thawed before cooking.
  • Grill the tortillas just until they start to char slightly for an extra smoky flavor.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper in the spice mix to suit your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these tacos with a side of black beans or a fresh corn salad. For beverages, a crisp, cold beer or a tangy margarita complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas work just as well if you prefer them.
What if I don't have a grill?
You can cook the shrimp in a hot skillet. Just make sure it's well-oiled and preheated.
Can I prepare the slaw in advance?
Yes, you can make the slaw a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a toss before serving.

Barbecue Shrimp Tacos Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing your spices — combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend will be your secret weapon for perfectly seasoned shrimp.

Next, toss the shrimp in olive oil, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sprinkle the spice mix over the shrimp, and give them a good stir to make sure every shrimp is covered in that flavorful rub.

With your grill preheated to medium-high, place the shrimp on the grill. They only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. You'll know they're done when they turn opaque and have those lovely grill marks.

While your shrimp are cooking, prepare the slaw. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped cilantro. Add lime juice, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar, then toss everything together until the veggies are well-coated and the flavors meld together.

Warm your corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds per side, just until they're soft and pliable.

To assemble your tacos, place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with a generous scoop of slaw, and finish with slices of avocado. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  • Combines smoky, spicy shrimp with a refreshing slaw for a flavor-packed bite.
  • Perfectly customizable for any palate or dietary preference.

Ingredients

Shrimp (peeled and deveined),1 lb
Olive oil,2 tbsp
Smoked paprika,1 tsp
Garlic powder,1 tsp
Onion powder,1/2 tsp
Cayenne pepper,1/4 tsp
Salt,1/2 tsp
Black pepper,1/2 tsp
Corn tortillas,8
Avocado (sliced),1
Red cabbage (shredded),2 cups
Carrot (julienned),1
Cilantro (chopped),1/4 cup
Lime juice,2 tbsp
Mayonnaise,1/4 cup
Apple cider vinegar,1 tbsp

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the shrimp with olive oil and the spice rub.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, toss together the cabbage, carrot, cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar to make the slaw.
5. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing grilled shrimp on a tortilla, followed by a scoop of slaw and slices of avocado.

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