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California Shrimp Tacos

Bright, fresh shrimp tacos with crispy slaw, creamy avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Ready in under 20 minutes for a weeknight dinner that tastes like the coast.

Total time
18 min
Servings
2
Calories
385
Protein
32g
California Shrimp Tacos
freshlightcaliforniangluten-freeshrimpcrispytendercreamy

Ingredients

  • ¾ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 6 count corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
  • 1 count avocado
  • 1 count lime
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pat the shrimp completely dry with a paper towel by pressing gently against each shrimp for a few seconds, which helps them cook quickly and brown evenly.

  2. 2

    Cut the lime in half and set both halves on a small plate near your cooking station for easy access when squeezing.

  3. 3

    Cut the avocado in half lengthwise around the pit, twist the halves apart, scoop the flesh into a small bowl, and mash roughly with a fork until chunky.

  4. 4

    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, and wait until it shimmers and slides quickly when you tilt the pan, about 90 seconds.

  5. 5

    Add the shrimp in a single layer to the hot oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook without moving them for 90 seconds until the undersides turn pink.

  6. 6

    Flip each shrimp over using tongs, then cook for another 60–90 seconds until the second side is pink and the flesh is opaque throughout when you cut one in half.

  7. 7

    Transfer the cooked shrimp to a clean plate and set aside.

  8. 8

    Warm the tortillas by placing each one directly over a medium gas flame for 10 seconds per side until pliable, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.

  9. 9

    Place a tortilla on a plate, then add a small handful of coleslaw mix down the center.

  10. 10

    Top the slaw with 2–3 shrimp per taco, then add a spoonful of mashed avocado.

  11. 11

    Squeeze a small amount of fresh lime juice over the top of each taco, then repeat with remaining tortillas.

Tools you’ll need

  • large skillet (12-inch)
  • paper towels
  • small bowl
  • fork
  • tongs
  • cutting board
  • chef's knife
  • small plate
  • microwave (optional)

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