Print

Fried Shrimp Tacos: 7 Powerfully Crunchy Recipes for Irresistible Flavor

Golden, crispy fried shrimp tacos filled with succulent breaded shrimp, crunchy slaw, and a zesty avocado crema. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or Taco Tuesday. Includes gluten-free and dairy-free options, pro tips, and storage advice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1lb (450g) raw shrimp (prawns), peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoonpaprika
  • 1 teaspooncoriander
  • ½ teaspoonsalt
  • ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
  • 1 tablespoonavocado oil (or other high-heat oil)
  • 3 cupsshredded green cabbage
  • 1 cupgrated carrot
  • ½ cupfresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
  • 68flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)
  • ½ cupplain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free)
  • 1small ripe avocado
  • 34tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, or hot sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry and toss with paprika, coriander, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. In a bowl, toss shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro with a squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt to make the slaw.
  4. Blend Greek yogurt, avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy to make the avocado crema.
  5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame for 30 seconds per side.
  6. Assemble tacos: Place a layer of slaw on each tortilla, add several crispy shrimp, and top with a generous drizzle of avocado crema. Garnish with lime, jalapeños, or hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Swap Greek yogurt for coconut or almond-based yogurt for dairy-free tacos.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying shrimp—work in batches for best crispiness.
Slaw and avocado crema can be prepared 1 day ahead and kept refrigerated.
Fried shrimp are best fresh but can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer for crunch.
Add chipotle, mango salsa, or Cajun spice for extra flavor twists.
Serve with black beans, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition