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Blackened Shrimp Taco Recipe

Blackened Shrimp Taco Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

Before jumping into the recipe, let’s talk about what goes well with blackened shrimp tacos. You’ve got options that can turn a delightful dish into a fiesta. Consider pairing these spicy tacos with a refreshing mango salsa. The sweetness of ripe mango will balance the heat from the shrimp perfectly. You might also think about a vibrant corn salad or a chilled cucumber salad with a splash of lime.
And let’s not forget drinks! A classic pairing could be a zesty margarita, or perhaps a cool, citrus-infused iced tea. Both will complement the smokiness of the shrimp nicely. Now, let’s get our taste buds ready for something truly special.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 306

Ingredients
  

COLESLAW
  • 1/2 bag coleslaw mix finely shredded cabbage and carrots
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/3 cup creamy mayonnaise
  • 1/2 tablespoon natural honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
SMOKY GARLIC LIME SAUCE
  • 1/3 cup rich mayonnaise
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 lime approximately 1 tablespoon of juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey
BLACKENING SEASONING
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
TACOS
  • 1/2 pound peeled and deveined shrimp 30/40 count
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw
  1. In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, green onions, and cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Toss everything together until well-coated. Set aside in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Make the Smoky Garlic Lime Sauce
  1. In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, lime juice, and honey. Stir until smooth. This sauce will add a delightful flavor punch to your tacos. You can keep it in the fridge for a freshness boost right before serving.
Step 3: Prepare the Blackening Seasoning
  1. Combine the smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This is your secret weapon for flavor. Give it a good stir so all the spices are mixed thoroughly.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
  1. Heat the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Next, toss the shrimp in the blackening seasoning until they are well coated. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
  1. You can warm your corn tortillas on another skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. Tortillas should be warm and ready to go.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
  1. Take a warm tortilla and add some of the blackened shrimp, a scoop of coleslaw, and drizzle on the smoky garlic lime sauce. Top with green onions and a sprinkle of lime zest. Repeat until you have as many tacos as you desire!

Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook just until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp becomes tough.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust the cayenne level to fit your spice preference. Consider adding diced jalapeños for some heat.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp if possible. This enhances the flavor significantly.
  • Tortilla Options: If you’re gluten-free, you can use corn tortillas. Flour tortillas can also be an option if you prefer them.
  • Make Ahead: Both the coleslaw and the sauce can be made a day in advance. Just keep them covered and chilled.