Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Name: Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1 carrot, grated; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; Avocado crema (optional)

Highlighted under: Exotic Eats

I absolutely love making Grilled Shrimp Tacos during the summer months. There’s something magical about combining perfectly seasoned shrimp with a crisp slaw and zesty lime juice, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Each bite bursts with fresh flavors and textures that remind me of beachside dining. Whether I'm hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, these tacos are always a hit. Plus, they're surprisingly quick to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:37:35.993Z

When I first tried grilled shrimp tacos at a local food truck, I knew I had to recreate that sensation at home. I experimented with different marinades and toppings, finally settling on a vibrant combination of lime, garlic, and chili powder for the shrimp. The fresh slaw brings a crunchy balance that perfectly contrasts the smoky char from grilling. Always remember to let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes to really enhance the flavors!

One special tip I discovered is to use corn tortillas instead of flour— they hold up better under the juicy shrimp and add an authentic touch that’s hard to resist. I like to serve them with homemade avocado crema, which is easy to whip up and elevates the dish to another level of deliciousness.

You Will Love These Tacos Because
Smoky grilled shrimp paired with fresh toppings
Light and refreshing with zesty flavors
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

The Perfect Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for achieving that perfect bite in your Grilled Shrimp Tacos. Opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp if possible, as they tend to have a firmer texture and more robust flavor than farmed varieties. When peeling and deveining, make sure to remove the shell completely for even seasoning absorption. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water for about 10 minutes and pat dry to ensure they grill well without becoming waterlogged.

The marinade plays a significant role in building flavor. Letting the shrimp sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes helps the shrimp absorb the garlic and lime juice, enhancing the overall taste. If you’re short on time, even a quick 5-minute soak will work, but for the best results, hitting the full marinating duration allows the shrimp to become infused with a smoky, zesty profile that’s the heart of your tacos.

Coleslaw Variations

The slaw is essential to balance the smoky shrimp, providing a refreshing crunch. While this recipe features a base of green and red cabbage, feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers for a hint of sweetness or radishes for a peppery bite. You can also substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing without sacrificing creaminess. Alternatively, use a vegan mayonnaise to suit dietary preferences while maintaining the dish's rich texture.

For a little kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a touch of sriracha to the slaw dressing. This addition brings an extra layer of flavor and spice that can elevate your tacos further. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning after adding any new ingredients, keeping in mind that the crunchiness of the slaw can be a delightful contrast to the tender grilled shrimp.

Assembly and Serving Tips

When assembling the tacos, warmth is key. Heat the corn tortillas just enough to make them pliable without burning—about 30 seconds on each side as instructed. This allows for easier folding and makes them less likely to crack when you fill them with shrimp and slaw. Layering is important: Add the shrimp first to help anchor the toppings, ensuring they stay balanced as you bite into them. Don’t overload the tortillas to prevent them from breaking apart.

For serving, consider a variety of toppings beyond cilantro and avocado crema. Fresh pico de gallo adds a juicy texture, while crumbled queso fresco lends a salty finish. A drizzle of hot sauce can add a pleasant heat that complements the other flavors well. Serve them with lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to customize their tacos with an extra squeeze of freshness that enhances the grilled shrimp's overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1 carrot, grated
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly

8 corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Avocado crema (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare delicious grilled shrimp tacos:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Slaw

In another bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrot. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and cooked through.

Warm the Tortillas

Lightly grill the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, add a generous amount of slaw, and top with fresh cilantro and avocado crema, if desired. Serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your flavorful shrimp tacos!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cumin or smoked paprika to the shrimp marinade.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Grilled Shrimp Tacos can be prepped ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for gatherings. You can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance or even the night before to deepen the flavors. Just remember to keep them refrigerated until you are ready to grill. The slaw can also be prepared ahead; simply store it in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more with your guests during mealtime.

If you're looking to meal prep, consider grilling extra shrimp to use in salads or as a protein in wraps for lunch. The grilled shrimp maintain their flavor well in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just reheat them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors of these tacos throughout the week!

Flavor Pairings

The bright flavors of your Grilled Shrimp Tacos pair beautifully with various sides. A mango salsa can offer a refreshing sweetness that contrasts with the shrimp's smokiness, while a side of black beans adds a hearty texture. For something a bit lighter, a simple cucumber salad with lime and cilantro can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your overall dining experience.

When it comes to drinks, consider serving these tacos with a cold cerveza or a zesty margarita. The acidity and brightness of the cocktail can echo the lime in the tacos while cutting through the richness of any creaminess, such as avocado crema. Keep the drinks chilled and fun to add to the beachy vibe of your taco night!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ How can I make these tacos spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeños to the slaw or use a spicier chili powder for the shrimp.

→ Can I prepare the slaw in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the slaw up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for the best flavor.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the slaw?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative to keep it creamy without using mayonnaise.