How to Grill Shrimp: Easy Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Grilled shrimp tacos are one of my absolute favorite recipes to make in the summer! These tacos are a delightful blend of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun summer BBQ.
Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to grilling shrimp and assembling the most delicious shrimp tacos you’ve ever tasted! We'll dive into the nitty-gritty of shrimp grilling, explore various grilling techniques, and even touch on some of my other favorite shrimp recipes and tips!
Why Grilled Shrimp Tacos?
I believe these Grilled Shrimp Tacos are one of the easiest dishes you can make. It's almost foolproof and packed with protein! Not only that, they're low in calories, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to keep their calories low. Shrimp takes only about 5 minutes to cook, and when paired with guacamole and slaw, it becomes a showstopper that requires minimal effort.
These shrimp tacos are perfect for Taco Tuesday, a summer afternoon grill-out, or just a fun weekday dinner! They take only 15 minutes to prepare and are incredibly easy to make. They are our go-to meal during the summer here in California!
What Type of Shrimp Should I Use?
When making grilled shrimp tacos, I recommend using large shrimp, also known as jumbo shrimp. The larger size of the shrimp allows for a more substantial bite and makes them easier to handle on the grill. Fresh shrimp is always best, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
How to Thaw Frozen Shrimp: There are a couple of methods to thaw frozen shrimp. The easiest way is to place the frozen shrimp in the fridge the night before you plan to cook them. If you need them thawed quickly, you can run the shrimp under cold water in a colander for a few minutes. This method is fast and ensures the shrimp remain firm and flavorful.
Product Recommendations
Grill Pan: Ideal for indoor grilling when you can’t get outside.
Bowl Set: Great for mixing sauces and slaw.
Citrus Juicer: Perfect for squeezing fresh lemon or lime juice.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 1 lime
Other Ingredients:
1 cup store-bought guacamole
1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
8 small flour tortillas
Cilantro to taste
Directions
Prep and Cook the Shrimp:
1. Mix the Seasoning: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are defrosted and dried. Use paper towels to dry them thoroughly.
3. Season the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and mix until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
4. Thread the Shrimp: Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Wooden skewers that have been soaked in water for 30 minutes prevent burning on the grill, alternatively you can use metal skewers.
5. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If using an indoor grill pan, heat it over medium-high on the stovetop.
6. Grease the Grill: Grease the grill or grill pan with avocado oil spray.
7. Grill the Shrimp: Once the grill is hot, place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are fully cooked, then remove from heat.
Char the Tortillas:
While the shrimp are cooking, you can grill the tortillas! If using the grill, grill the tortillas for 30 seconds on each side.
Alternatively, you can warm the tortillas on the stove:
On the Stove:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
Place each tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds per side, until warm and slightly toasted.
Prep the Extras:
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lime zest, and lime juice. Mix until smooth.
Prepare the Slaw: In another bowl, add the shredded cabbage and drizzle with half of the yogurt sauce. Mix to coat the cabbage evenly.
Assemble the Tacos:
Spread Guacamole: Spread a layer of guacamole on each warm tortilla.
Add Shrimp and Slaw: Add a few shrimp and some slaw.
Drizzle with Sauce: Drizzle with the remaining lime yogurt sauce.
Garnish: Garnish with cilantro to taste.
Serve Warm: Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Use Fresh or Thawed Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best results, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are properly thawed to maintain their texture.
Preheat Your Grill: A preheated grill ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and develop a nice char.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque pink.
Char Your Tortillas: This adds a nice smoky flavor and makes the tacos feel more authentic.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavors of your tacos and add a touch of freshness.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the shrimp, slaw, and cilantro lime sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat the shrimp, cook them over low heat on the stove until they are warmed through.
How to Cook Shrimp on the Stove
If you don’t have a grill, you can easily cook the shrimp on the stove. Follow these steps:
Preheat the Skillet: Use a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Prepare the Shrimp: Add a bit of olive oil to the skillet.
Cook the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp in the skillet.
Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and opaque.
For a detailed step-by-step guide, check out this link: How to Cook Shrimp on the Stove.
Shrimp Grilling Techniques
How Do I Get the Best Results with Grilled Shrimp?
To get the best results with grilled shrimp, here are a few tips:
Use the Right Size Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp are easier to handle on the grill and provide a meatier bite.
Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking and to achieve nice grill marks.
Grill Basket: Using a grill basket can help prevent smaller shrimp from falling through the grill grates.
More Shrimp Recipes to Try
Want More Easy & Healthy Weeknight Recipes?
Check out my Clean & Easy 30-Minute Meals! Everything can be made in 30 minutes or less, with minimal effort and simple ingredients."
Grilled shrimp tacos are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of grilling time, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a summer BBQ, these shrimp tacos are sure to be a hit.
I hope you enjoy this easy Grilled Shrimp Recipe! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup store-bought guacamole
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Cilantro to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Make sure your shrimp are defrosted and dried. Use paper towels to dry them.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and mix until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Thread the shrimp on skewers.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high on the stovetop.
- Grease the grill or grill pan with avocado oil spray.
- Once the grill is hot, place the shrimp skewers on the grill.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are fully cooked then remove from heat.
- While the shrimp are cooking you can grill the tortillas! If using the grill, grill the tortillas for 30 seconds on each side. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven: place the tortillas on a sheet pan and bake for 5 minutes at 300°F. Or, wrap the tortillas in a moist paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds. Keep them wrapped in a kitchen towel to stay warm.
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lime zest, and lime juice. Mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, add the shredded cabbage and drizzle with half of the yogurt sauce. Mix to coat the cabbage evenly.
- Spread a layer of guacamole on each warm tortilla.
- Add a few shrimp and some slaw.
- Drizzle with the remaining lime yogurt sauce.
- Garnish with cilantro to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
