Jerk shrimp tacos are a fun and tasty meal! The shrimp gets a spicy kick from jerk seasoning, while fresh toppings like slaw and avocado add crunch and creaminess.
These tacos are perfect for a quick dinner or backyard party! I love to pile on all the toppings and squeeze a little lime on top—it makes everything taste even better! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work great for tacos. If you’re allergic or prefer another protein, try using chicken or tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Jerk Seasoning: Jerk seasoning gives a spicy flavor. If you don’t have it, make your own using spices like allspice, thyme, and cayenne. Adjust to your taste!
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and add awesome flavor. If you’re gluten-free, stick with corn. Flour tortillas can also be a substitute, offering a softer texture.
Cabbage: Purple cabbage adds crunch and color. You can swap it with green cabbage or even lettuce if that’s what you have on hand.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you don’t have one, try sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar effect.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is great for tacos! If you can’t find it, feta or even shredded cheddar work nicely in a pinch.
How Do You Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp quickly is key to keeping them juicy and tender. Overcooking can make them rubbery. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by preheating your skillet over medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Once the pan is hot, add shrimp in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp are done when they’re pink and opaque, curling slightly.
Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Remember, they’ll continue to cook slightly after removing from heat!
Jerk Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or queso fresco)
- 1/2 cup fresh pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice)
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a few additional minutes to cook the shrimp. In no time, you’ll have delicious jerk shrimp tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with jerk seasoning and olive oil. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning for a great flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and slightly charred. When done, remove from the heat.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
To soften the corn tortillas, you can warm them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or microwave them for about 20 seconds until pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Start by placing a small handful of shredded purple cabbage on each tortilla. This adds a refreshing crunch!
5. Add the Shrimp:
Place several cooked shrimp on top of the cabbage in each taco. Feel free to pile them on!
6. Top with Deliciousness:
Now it’s time to add your toppings! Spoon some diced avocado, pico de gallo, and jalapeño slices on top. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over everything for that creamy, salty touch.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top right before enjoying. It adds a zing that ties it all together!
Enjoy your spicy, fresh jerk shrimp tacos with friends or family—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Taco Recipe?
Absolutely! If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can use chicken, fish, or even tofu. Adjust the cooking times accordingly—chicken, for example, will need a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make the Tacos Less Spicy?
If you want to tone down the heat, you can use less jerk seasoning or find a milder version. Another option is to add more toppings, like avocado or sour cream, which can help balance out the spiciness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp and toppings separate from the tortillas to prevent sogginess. Place shrimp and toppings in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp gently and assemble your tacos fresh!
Can I Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance! Marinate the shrimp with jerk seasoning and olive oil the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also chop the veggies and prepare the toppings, making dinner quick and easy!
