Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Name: Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Avocado slices, for topping; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Food

I love making Grilled Shrimp Tacos when I'm craving something fresh and vibrant. The combination of grilled shrimp with a zesty slaw and creamy sauce creates a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. Pair it with your favorite toppings for a customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, they come together in no time, making them ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-03-05T06:33:53.253Z

I remember the first time I made these Grilled Shrimp Tacos. The smoky flavor from the grill infused the shrimp perfectly, and I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. I found that marinating the shrimp for just 15 minutes really deepened the flavor, allowing the garlic and lime to shine through in every bite. By the time they were on the grill, I was already dreaming about the toppings!

When I served them, the excitement in the room was palpable. Everyone loved customizing their tacos with fresh toppings, and I realized that these shrimp tacos not only filled my family’s stomachs but also brought us together. I now make these for gatherings, and they never fail to impress. You can even prep the shrimp in advance, making them an easy option for entertaining.

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Juicy grilled shrimp with a hint of smoky flavor
Zesty slaw adds a refreshing crunch
Quick and easy to assemble for busy weeknights or gatherings

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

The marinating process is crucial in elevating the flavor of the shrimp. By combining the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, and lime juice, you allow the aromatic oils to penetrate the shrimp, creating a delicious base. The chili powder adds a smoky kick, which complements the grill's char. Be sure to marinate for at least 15 minutes; this brief time is sufficient for the shrimp to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. If short on time, consider using a zip-top bag to speed up the process by mixing and tossing the marinade more thoroughly.

If you want to experiment with flavors, feel free to substitute the chili powder with smoked paprika for a deeper smokiness, or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano can also enhance the marinade. Just remember that less is more—start with a small amount and adjust based on your taste preferences!

Perfecting the Slaw

The slaw is essential for balancing the shrimp's richness with its refreshing crunch. Using both green and red cabbage not only adds color but also a variety of textures. The mayonnaise gives the slaw a creamy consistency, while the lime juice adds the necessary acidity to brighten the flavors. Mix until the cabbage is evenly coated, but avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to a soggy slaw. For a twist, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version with added protein.

Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients to your slaw for more depth. Thinly sliced radishes or carrots add sweetness and extra crunch, while jalapeños can incorporate a spicy kick. Allow the slaw to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving, as this resting time will soften the cabbage slightly and enhance the overall flavor.

Customizing and Serving Your Tacos

Assembly is where the fun begins, and customizing your tacos can cater to various tastes. Popular toppings include fresh avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy bite. Don't hesitate to serve these tacos with a side of salsa or hot sauce to provide different flavor profiles. I always keep lime wedges handy, as squeezing fresh lime juice right before taking a bite brightens and enhances the overall dish significantly.

If you're preparing this meal for a group, consider setting up a taco bar with bowls of various toppings, allowing everyone to build their own tacos. This not only makes for an interactive dining experience but also caters to different dietary preferences. Lastly, these tacos can be made in larger batches; just remember to keep the shrimp warm in a low oven while grilling additional batches to ensure everyone is served at once.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare the refreshing Grilled Shrimp Tacos!

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly

8 small corn tortillas
Avocado slices, for topping
Lime wedges, for serving

Once you gather all these ingredients, you're ready to make mouthwatering tacos!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Grilled Shrimp Tacos.

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Slaw

In another bowl, mix together the green cabbage, red cabbage, cilantro, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.

Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp are grilling, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

Place grilled shrimp on the tortillas, top with slaw, and add avocado slices. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful and vibrant Grilled Shrimp Tacos!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the tacos. You can also substitute the shrimp with grilled fish for a different flavor!

Make-Ahead Tips

For meal prep enthusiasts, the shrimp can be marinated a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate the seasoned shrimp until you’re ready to grill, making it super convenient for busy weeknights. Just ensure to let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling for even cooking. Similarly, the slaw can be made several hours early. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and crisp.

In case you have leftover slaw or shrimp, they can be stored separately. Cooked shrimp should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave if preferred warm, but be cautious not to overcook them again; aim for heated through but still tender.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover tacos can be a delightful treat, but it's important to store ingredients separately to maintain freshness. Wrap the tortillas in foil or place them in a sealed container to prevent them from becoming soggy. The grilled shrimp should also be stored in an airtight container, and the slaw can remain crunchy if kept in a separate container without mayonnaise until serving.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat the shrimp quickly in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. For the tortillas, quickly warm them in a dry skillet to revive their texture. Be mindful that reheating may alter the texture slightly, but with proper care, they'll still taste delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prep the shrimp in advance?

Yes, marinated shrimp can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept in the fridge until ready to grill.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can use chicken breast or tofu as a great substitute for the shrimp in this recipe.

→ Can these tacos be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free corn tortillas to keep them gluten-free.

→ How many calories do these tacos contain?

Each serving of these grilled shrimp tacos contains approximately 320 calories.