Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Prep & Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 3–4
These Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are fresh, vibrant, and full of balanced flavors. Juicy, spiced shrimp are tucked into soft tortillas with crisp cabbage and drizzled with a smooth avocado crema. The smoky paprika and cumin add depth, while the lime and cilantro brighten everything up. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that’s quick enough for weeknights and special enough for guests.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
450 g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1 tbsp lime juice
For the Avocado Crema
1 ripe avocado
¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves
1 clove garlic
½ jalapeño, seeded (optional, for extra kick)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Taco Assembly
6–8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp Marinade:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and lime juice. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes.
Make the Avocado Crema:
In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and squeeze an extra touch of lime juice on top.
Warm the Tortillas:
Heat the tortillas in a dry pan or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds on each side until soft and lightly charred.
Assemble the Tacos:
Lay out the tortillas and add a handful of shredded cabbage or lettuce as the base. Top with cooked shrimp, drizzle generously with avocado crema, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Serve:
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
Tips & Variations
Customize the Spice Level:
Adjust the chili powder, red pepper flakes, or jalapeño in the avocado crema to control the heat. For milder tacos, omit the jalapeño and use less chili powder.
Add More Veggies:
Include sliced bell peppers, radishes, or avocado slices for extra crunch and flavor. Roasted corn or black beans also pair well for a heartier taco.
Cheese Options:
Sprinkle crumbled feta, cotija, or shredded cheddar over the tacos for added richness.
Tortilla Choice:
Corn tortillas give a traditional flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and easier to fold. Small lettuce wraps are a low-carb alternative.
Make Ahead:
The avocado crema can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent browning.
Marinade Time:
Shrimp only needs 10–15 minutes to absorb the spices. Over-marinating can make them mushy.
Cooking Tip:
Cook shrimp in a hot skillet in a single layer for a quick sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or the shrimp will steam instead of sear.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with a side of Mediterranean-style rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.
Vegetarian Option:
Swap shrimp for seasoned and sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Extra Flavor Boost:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lime over the finished tacos for a bright, fresh taste.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry to get a good sear.
Q: Can I make the avocado crema ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make it up to a day in advance. Press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent browning.
Q: What other proteins can I use instead of shrimp?
Grilled chicken, fish, or even sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas work well as alternatives.
Q: How do I keep the tacos from getting soggy?
Place shredded cabbage or lettuce under the shrimp to act as a barrier between the sauce and the tortilla. Assemble right before serving for best results.
Q: Can I use other herbs instead of cilantro?
Parsley can be used for a milder, fresh flavor if you prefer.
Nutrition
(per taco, approximate)
Calories: 220
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 8% DV
(Values vary depending on tortilla size and exact ingredients used.)
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are bright, flavorful, and quick to prepare. The smoky, spiced shrimp pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado sauce, while crisp cabbage and fresh cilantro add texture and freshness. They’re an easy weeknight meal, impressive for guests, and can be adapted with different proteins or spice levels. Serve them immediately for the best combination of warm, juicy shrimp and cool, creamy crema.