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Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream

These vibrant shrimp tacos, topped with a tangy cilantro-lime sour cream, are a delightful and easy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the shrimp
  • 20 medium medium prawns These succulent, sweet shrimp serve as the star of the dish.
  • 1 clove garlic (minced) Brings depth and warmth to the shrimp.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Adds rich, smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Offers gentle heat.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) For extra spiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
  • 4 pieces corn tortillas Holds everything together.
  • Oil for frying For lightly frying the tortillas.
  • Shredded lettuce Offers crisp texture.
  • Diced tomatoes Brings color and flavor.
  • Sliced avocado Adds a luxurious touch.
  • Cilantro-lime sour cream Irresistible topping.
For the cilantro-lime sour cream
  • 1/4 cup sour cream Forms the base of the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro Brings a zesty kick.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin Adds a hint of spice.
  • 1-2 teaspoons lime juice Increases freshness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest Adds aromatic citrus flavor.
  • Salt to taste For seasoning the sauce.

Method
 

Marinate the Shrimp
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated shrimp. Cook until pink and opaque, approximately 5 minutes.
Prepare the Tortillas
  1. In a small pan, add about 2 tablespoons of oil to lightly coat the bottom. Heat over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side, until soft and pliable.
  2. Fold each tortilla over to form a taco shell and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Make the Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream
  1. In a small bowl, stir together sour cream, chopped cilantro, cumin, lime juice, lime zest, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Tacos
  1. Spoon around 5 shrimp into each taco shell. Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and finish with a dollop of cilantro-lime sour cream. Serve immediately.

Notes

For additional flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice over the shrimp while cooking. Grill the shrimp for a smoky flavor instead of using a skillet. For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with grilled vegetables or black beans.