These Jerk Shrimp Tacos are bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp are coated in spicy jerk seasoning and wrapped in soft tortillas, making each bite a delight!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a taco night? I always pile on the toppings like avocado and lime. They bring a fresh twist to the spicy shrimp, and I can’t get enough! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are the star here! If you’re on a budget or want to try something different, you can use chicken instead, just adjust the cooking time. Frozen shrimp work too, just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating!
Jerk Seasoning: This is where the magic happens! You can use store-bought jerk seasoning for convenience. If you don’t have it, blend spices like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper for a quick homemade version. It adds fabulous flavor!
Corn Tortillas: I love using corn tortillas for their authentic taste, but flour tortillas can work in a pinch. Just warm them up to make them soft and flexible, so they don’t break when you fill them.
Cheese: Queso fresco or cotija sprinkle great flavor. If you can’t find them, feta can be a nice substitute. You could also skip cheese entirely for a lighter version.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is key for great tacos! Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Follow these tips for success:
- Pat shrimp dry before marinating to get a nice sear.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the shrimp; this helps develop a good color and flavor.
- Cook shrimp until they are opaque and curl up, about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them; they cook fast!
Jerk Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, sour cream, or salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: 15 minutes for marinating the shrimp and another 15 minutes for cooking and assembling the tacos. Quick and packed with flavor—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with jerk seasoning and olive oil until they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the hot skillet and cook until they are opaque and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them from heat and set aside.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp cooks, warm the corn tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds until they are pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Start layering your tacos! Place a generous amount of shredded lettuce and cabbage on each warm tortilla. Then, add a few of those tasty jerk shrimp on top of the greens.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro over the shrimp. These toppings add great flavor and texture!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your jerk shrimp tacos with lime wedges on the side for a zing. Feel free to add any optional toppings like sliced jalapeños for some heat, or creamy avocado slices. Dig in and enjoy the bursts of flavor!
These flavorful jerk shrimp tacos are not only quick to prepare but also bring a taste of the Caribbean to your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure better flavor absorption.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a kick, try adding more jerk seasoning to the shrimp or use a spicy salsa or hot sauce as a topping. Sliced jalapeños or diced fresh chili peppers also work great for extra heat!
Can I Prep the Tacos Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance, but it’s best to cook them right before serving to keep their texture perfect. You can also prepare your toppings and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat and assemble your tacos fresh to enjoy. Avoid reheating the tortillas, as they can become tough!