Introduction:

Tacos are loved around the world for their incredible versatility, flavorful fillings, and easy-to-devour format. One delicious variation on this classic dish is the cilantro-shrimp taco—a tasty and satisfying option featuring succulent shrimp seasoned with fresh cilantro. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and mouthwatering recipe to create the perfect cilantro-shrimp tacos.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

– 1/4 cup lime juice

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper, to taste

– 8 small corn or flour tortillas

– 1 cup shredded red cabbage

– 1 avocado, sliced

– 1/4 cup sour cream or crema fresca

– Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the shrimp: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine shrimp, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until shrimp is well-coated with the marinade. Allow shrimp to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

2. Prep the toppings: While the shrimp is marinating, shred red cabbage and set aside. Slice avocado into thin strips.

3. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade (discard any remaining marinade) and cook for about 2 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and pink.

4. Heat tortillas: In a separate dry skillet over medium heat, warm tortillas for about 30 seconds per side. Cover or wrap in a cloth kitchen towel to keep warm until you’re ready to serve.

5. Assemble the tacos: Place a layer of red cabbage on each warmed tortilla, followed by cooked shrimp and avocado slices. Drizzle with sour cream or crema fresca and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Optional Enhancements:

– Create a salsa fresca by combining diced tomato, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice—spoon onto tacos before topping with shrimp.

– Make guacamole to pair with these tacos as an additional topping or side dish.

– Grill or char the corn tortillas for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion:

Cilantro-shrimp tacos are a light yet flavorful choice for those who want to try something different from traditional beef or chicken tacos. With succulent marinated shrimp and fresh ingredients like avocado, red cabbage, and lime juice, this recipe is simple enough for weeknight meals but satisfying enough for weekend gatherings. Give it a try and bring some zesty excitement to your taco nights!