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To make Spicy Cajun Shrimp Tacos, gather these ingredients: - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded - 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 avocado, sliced - 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped - 1 lime, juiced - 8 small corn tortillas - Salt and pepper to taste For those who want more kick, consider adding: - Hot sauce for extra heat Each taco provides a good mix of protein and healthy fats. Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein. The avocado adds healthy fats, while the cabbage and corn offer fiber and vitamins. This dish is balanced and filling, making it a great choice for a hearty meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, you need to marinate the shrimp. Take a bowl and add the shrimp. Next, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss it all together well. Let the shrimp sit for about 15 minutes. This step helps the shrimp soak up all the spicy flavors. While the shrimp marinates, prepare the corn and cabbage mix. Grab another bowl and add the shredded red cabbage. Then, pour in the corn kernels. Don't forget to squeeze the lime juice over it. Add chopped cilantro and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until well combined. Set this aside for later. Now it’s time to cook the shrimp. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn pink and curl slightly when done. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Now you’re ready to assemble your tacos! To cook shrimp well, start with fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Choose large shrimp for a juicy bite. Marinate the shrimp in Cajun seasoning and olive oil for 15 minutes. This helps the flavors sink in. Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding shrimp. Cook them in a single layer. This way, they cook evenly. Look for a nice pink color to know they’re done. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Do not overcook them, or they will become rubbery. To boost flavor, mix fresh lime juice with your corn and cabbage. The citrus adds a bright kick. Use fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Try adding a pinch of salt to the mix. This enhances all the flavors. If you like heat, drizzle your tacos with hot sauce. You can also experiment with different toppings. Consider adding diced tomatoes or jalapeños for an extra zing. For a beautiful presentation, arrange your tacos on a large platter. Place lime wedges around the tacos for color. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top. This makes the dish look fresh and inviting. You can also stack the tacos or lean them against each other. Serve with extra hot sauce on the side. This gives guests the option to add more heat. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes to fully absorb the Cajun spices, enhancing the overall taste of your tacos. Perfectly Warm Tortillas: Warm your corn tortillas over an open flame for a few seconds for a deliciously charred flavor, or use a dry skillet for a softer texture. Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and add hot sauce according to your spice preference to make the tacos just right for your taste. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh cilantro, lime, and avocado for the best flavor and texture, making your tacos vibrant and delicious. {{image_2}} You can easily swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken, fish, or tofu work great. For chicken, use bite-sized pieces and marinate with the same Cajun seasoning. Cook until golden brown. For fish, choose a firm type like tilapia. Cook until flaky. Tofu is a great plant-based option. Press it to remove excess water, then cube and marinate. Each protein offers a unique flavor and texture. If you want a vegetarian taco, use black beans or grilled vegetables. Black beans add protein and creaminess. Just heat them in a pan with some Cajun spices. Grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring color and crunch. Toss them with olive oil and Cajun seasoning before grilling. These options keep the flavors bold while being meat-free. Toppings can change your taco game. Instead of avocado, try mango salsa for sweetness. It adds a refreshing contrast to the spice. You can also use crumbled feta or cotija cheese for creaminess and tang. Pickled red onions add a zesty kick. Finally, fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten each bite. Mix and match to create your perfect taco! To store leftover tacos, first separate the shrimp, toppings, and tortillas. This keeps everything fresh. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. Add a paper towel to absorb moisture. Store toppings in their own containers. Keep tortillas in a zip-top bag. This method helps preserve taste and texture. Leftover tacos can last in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat shrimp gently to avoid overcooking. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil. Place the shrimp in the pan and cover it. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check until they are warm but not rubbery. You can also use a microwave. Place shrimp on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30 seconds at a time. You can freeze shrimp before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Frozen shrimp can last up to three months. You can also freeze the corn and cabbage mixture. Store it in an airtight container. This way, you can prepare the tacos quickly later. Do not freeze cooked shrimp, as it can change the texture. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating. This keeps the shrimp juicy and tender. These tacos go well with many sides. Try serving them with: - Black beans - Mexican rice - Grilled vegetables - A fresh salad - Chips and salsa These options add color and flavor to your meal. To kick up the heat, add more Cajun seasoning. You can also: - Drizzle extra hot sauce on top - Slice fresh jalapeños for topping - Mix diced chipotle peppers into the cabbage These options will give your tacos a nice spicy kick. Yes, you can prep the shrimp ahead of time. Marinate them and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to cook them within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture. This makes meal prep easy and fast. In this post, we covered how to make tasty shrimp tacos. We explored the key ingredients and optional ones that add flavor. The step-by-step instructions help you marinate and cook shrimp perfectly. I shared tips for cooking and serving to impress your guests. You can also try different proteins or vegetarian options for variety. Finally, we discussed how to store and reheat your leftovers. Enjoy your shrimp tacos and feel free to get creative with them!

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Tacos

Delicious tacos filled with spicy Cajun shrimp, fresh vegetables, and avocado.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 cup red cabbage, shredded
  • 0.5 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 0.25 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Hot sauce for extra heat

Instructions
 

  • Start by marinating the shrimp. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well and let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the corn and cabbage mixture. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded red cabbage, corn kernels, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from heat.
  • Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over an open flame for a few seconds until pliable.
  • To assemble the tacos, place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with the corn and cabbage mixture, and add slices of avocado.
  • Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Serve the tacos arranged on a large platter, with lime wedges and cilantro sprinkled around for a colorful and vibrant display.
Keyword Cajun, seafood, shrimp tacos, spicy