Introduction:
Grilled Blackened Shrimp Tacos is a brilliant, flavorful course that immediately conjures up images of strong flavors and freshness. It contains tender shrimp coated in spicy blackening, grilled to perfection, and put on top of soft tortillas. The shrimp tacos are finished with spicy slaw and creamy, tangy sauce to make up a deliciously balanced blend of spicy, fresh, and crunchy flavors. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these Grilled Blackened Shrimp Tacos make one’s taste buds tingle with the dynamic flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
1. Shrimp
Type: Large or extra-large shrimp should be used for this recipe. These are perfect, as they are great on the grill and have just the right texture.
Preparation: Peel and de-vein the shrimp, leaving the tails on or off, whichever you prefer. Pat them dry with paper towels for proper adhesion of the seasoning and to prevent excess moisture when grilling.
2. Blackened Seasoning
The blackened seasoning is going to give these tacos their flavor profile:
Ingredients:
Paprika: As if it was smoked, it includes a bit of sweetness in the smokiness.
Cayenne Pepper: Supplies the heat that defines blackened seasoning.
Garlic Powder: Adds a dimension of depth and savory notes.
Onion Powder: Balances out the garlic with a slight sweetness.
Oregano: Adds slight earthiness.
Thyme: Slightly herbal.
Salt and Black Pepper: An overall seasoning, enhancing the taste.
3. Tortillas
Type: Soft corn or flour tortillas may be used, whichever one prefers. Corn tortillas add an authentic touch while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.
Preparation: This step heats the tortillas before assemblage to make them pliable and flavorful.
4. Slaw
This refreshing, crunchy, and tangy slaw offsets the spiciness of the shrimp:
Ingredients
Shredded Cabbage: Crunchy base for the slaw.
Shredded Carrots: Adds color and a bit of sweetness.
Red Onion: Mild crunch and more flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness.
Lime Juice: This balances the sweetness of the carrots and the heat from the shrimp.
Honey: A hint of sweetness to balance the acidity and spice
Salt and Pepper: To taste
5. Sauce
This creamy sauce will bring everything together:
Ingredients:
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: The base of the sauce that gives creaminess
Mayonnaise: Enriches the sauce
Lime Juice: Gives it more tang.
Hot Sauce: For added kick of heat.
Garlic Powder: For extra flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Preparation:
Watch The Full Recipe Video:
1. Preparing the Blackened Shrimp
Seasoning the Shrimp: Mix all ingredients for the blackened seasoning in a small bowl. Toss shrimp in a bowl with a little olive oil, then coat them with the seasoning mixture. Make sure they’re well-coated to bring out the flavor.
Grilling Shrimp: Heat up your grill to medium-high. Take your seasoned shrimp and string them on skewers if you prefer them easier to handle, or just throw them right on the grates. Grill 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and nice sear marks show up. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they become hard and turn into rubber.
2. Preparing the Slaw
Mix the slaw in a large bowl by combining the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and thinly sliced red onion. Add it with chopped cilantro and mix everything together.
For the dressing: In a small bowl whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour over slaw and toss to coat everything evenly. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes to meld flavors and help soften slightly the cabbage.
3. To prepare the sauce:
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or sour cream with the mayonnaise. Add the lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and combined. Adjust seasoning to taste; add more hot sauce if you want a spicier sauce.
4. Assemble the Tacos
Warm the Tortillas: Grill or heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until pliable and lightly toasted.
Assemble Tacos: Place a generous amount of slaw onto each tortilla. Top with grilled blackened shrimp, then drizzle with the creamy sauce. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Blackened Shrimp Tacos will pair well with just about anything, from sides to accompaniments. Here are some ideas:
Mexican Rice: Serve the tacos with a side of fluffy Mexican rice to help round out and fill up on the meal.
Black Beans: Seasoned black beans make for a protein-rich side that pairs well with both the shrimp and the slaw.
Guacamole and Salsa: Additional layers of flavor come through with fresh guacamole and salsa, perfect for dipping.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob sprinkled with chili powder and lime juice makes for a nice side dish.
Wine and Beverage Pairing
The right beverage paired with Grilled Blackened Shrimp Tacos enhances the dining experience:
White Wine: Crisp and refreshing white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs well with spicy shrimp and creamy sauce.
Beer: A light beer or a citrusy IPA works well with the bold flavors and can help to balance out the heat.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Offer a nice, cold, refreshing iced tea or a limeade as a non-alcoholic option.
Nutritional Benefits
Grilled Blackened Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also offer several nutritional benefits:
Shrimp: Low in calories and rich in protein, shrimp supply vital nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, that support metabolic health and thyroid function.
Cabbage and Carrots: This slaw is dense in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. These help with digestion and immune function.
Greek Yogurt: Protein and probiotics work to make the sauce creamy; they aid digestion.
FAQs:
**1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
You can use pre-cooked shrimp, but it’s best to add them to the grill only to warm them through and get a bit of smoky flavor. Since they are already cooked, they don’t need much time on the grill—just a minute or two on each side to heat them up and add grill marks. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough.
**2. Can I make this dish without a grill?
Yes, you can make this dish without a grill. You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake the shrimp in the oven. For a grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the shrimp on a lined baking sheet for about 6-8 minutes, or until opaque and cooked through.
**3. What if I don’t have all the spices for the blackened seasoning?
If you don’t have all the spices for the blackened seasoning, you can use a pre-made blackened seasoning blend from the store. Alternatively, you can create a simplified version with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, adjusting the quantities to suit your taste.
**4. Can I make the blackened seasoning in advance?
Yes, you can make the blackened seasoning in advance. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for several months. Making it ahead of time can save you time when preparing the dish.
**5. How do I store leftover tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp, slaw, and tortillas separate to prevent sogginess. Place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm the tortillas as needed before assembling the tacos. Reheat the shrimp gently to avoid overcooking.
**6. Can I freeze the shrimp or slaw?
- Shrimp: Yes, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Slaw: Freezing the slaw is not recommended because it can become watery and lose its crisp texture. It’s best to prepare the slaw fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator.
**7. Can I use other types of seafood or protein instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with other proteins such as fish (like tilapia or cod), chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking times according to the type of protein you use. For fish or chicken, ensure they are cooked through and seasoned similarly to the shrimp.
**8. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt or sour cream in the sauce?
If you prefer to avoid Greek yogurt or sour cream, you can use a dairy-free alternative such as coconut yogurt or cashew cream. For a lighter option, you can use a combination of avocado and lime juice to create a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
**9. How can I make the slaw spicier?
To add some heat to the slaw, you can mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference. Adding a bit of hot sauce to the slaw dressing can also increase the spiciness.
**10. Can I make the slaw and sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw and sauce in advance:
- Slaw: Prepare the slaw up to a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Toss it again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Sauce: Make the sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Stir well before serving to ensure it’s smooth and well combined.
**11. How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they are opaque and have turned pink. They should also curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, so be sure to keep an eye on them while grilling.
**12. What should I do if I don’t have a grill?
If you don’t have a grill, you can use alternative methods such as a grill pan on the stovetop or baking in the oven. For a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the shrimp for 6-8 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
**13. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the shrimp with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Season and cook them similarly to the shrimp, adjusting the cooking time as needed. For tofu, press and cube it, then coat with the seasoning and cook until crispy.
**14. What kind of tortillas are best for these tacos?
Both corn and flour tortillas work well for these tacos. Corn tortillas offer a more traditional flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. You can use either based on your preference or availability. Warm the tortillas before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
**15. Can I add other toppings to the tacos?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings such as avocado slices, diced tomatoes, pickled red onions, or fresh jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice can also enhance the overall taste of the tacos.