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Cajun Shrimp Tacos Savory and Simple Recipe

by on August 20, 2025

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Craving a burst of flavor? Let me guide you through a simple recipe for Cajun shrimp tacos. These tacos bring together spicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and zesty lime, all in one delicious bite. In this article, I’ll walk you through each step, share tips for perfecting your dish, and explore tasty variations. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy, savory treat!

- Shrimp - Cajun seasoning - Olive oil - Red cabbage - Avocado - Corn kernels - Lime - Cilantro - Tortillas - Salt and pepper - Optional toppings To make these Cajun shrimp tacos, you need fresh ingredients. Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. You will also need two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. This spice mix gives the shrimp a bold flavor. Use two tablespoons of olive oil to help cook the shrimp. Next, grab one cup of finely shredded red cabbage. This will add crunch to your tacos. You’ll want one ripe avocado, sliced for creaminess. For sweetness, add half a cup of corn kernels. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. Don’t forget the lime! You need one lime, juiced, plus extra wedges for serving. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, so have half a cup chopped. You’ll also need eight small tortillas. Choose corn or flour based on your preference. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add optional toppings like hot sauce for some heat. Having these ingredients ready will set you up for taco success! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, you need to coat the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In a bowl, mix the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss them well. You want each shrimp to be covered in the spices. This adds great flavor. Now, let’s cook the shrimp. Preheat a large skillet on medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. They are done when they look shiny. Remove the skillet from heat. While the shrimp cook, prepare the slaw. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of finely shredded red cabbage, ½ cup of corn kernels, the juice of 1 lime, and ½ cup of chopped cilantro. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for taste. Toss everything together until it is mixed well. This slaw adds crunch and freshness to your tacos. Next, warm the tortillas. You can use two methods. For the skillet method, place the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side. If you prefer the microwave, wrap them in a damp paper towel. Heat them for about 20 seconds until soft. Warm tortillas make the tacos tastier. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos. Take a tortilla and lay on a few shrimp. Next, add a generous scoop of the slaw on top. For creaminess, add a few slices of ripe avocado. Drizzle some lime juice over everything. If you like spice, add your favorite hot sauce. For presentation, serve the tacos on a nice platter. Use parchment paper to line it. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for a fresh look. Enjoy your Cajun shrimp tacos! You can change the heat of your tacos easily. Start with two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. If you like it spicy, add more. Taste your shrimp mix before cooking. This way, you find the flavor you love. Remember, you can always add hot sauce later. Cooking shrimp just right is key. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep an eye on them. If they curl tightly, they are done. It’s better to check early than to overcook. Pair your tacos with fresh sides. A simple salad or rice works great. You can also serve black beans or chips. For drinks, try a light beer or a zesty lemonade. For garnishing, use lime wedges and extra cilantro. This adds color and freshness to your plate. You can even sprinkle some extra Cajun seasoning on top for flair. Pro Tips Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a blend with less heat. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Perfectly Warm Tortillas: For an even better tortilla experience, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep them soft and warm until serving. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or jalapeños to suit your taste! {{image_4}} You can switch up the protein in your tacos. If you're not a shrimp fan, try chicken, fish, or even tofu. Each option gives a different taste and feel to the meal. - Chicken: Grill or sauté chicken breast with Cajun spices. Shred it for a tasty filling. - Fish: Use firm fish like tilapia or cod. Cook it with Cajun seasoning for flavor. - Tofu: For a plant-based option, marinate and fry tofu. It soaks up the spices well. The cabbage slaw is key to these tacos, but you can add more variety. Think about mixing in extra veggies or fruits. - Vegetables: Shredded carrots or bell peppers add color and crunch. - Fruits: Try diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. These can balance the spice nicely. Tortillas are the base of your tacos. You can choose between flour or corn tortillas, and each has its own charm. - Corn Tortillas: These have a nice flavor and work well with Cajun spices. - Flour Tortillas: They are soft and can hold more filling, making them a great choice for bigger tacos. Experiment with these options to find your favorite mix! After you enjoy your tacos, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you have shrimp and slaw separate, they will stay fresh longer. To reheat shrimp, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Heat the shrimp for about two minutes. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often to avoid rubbery shrimp. You can freeze cooked shrimp for later use. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They will last up to three months. However, I don’t recommend freezing the tacos with slaw. Fresh ingredients taste best when not frozen. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This method works well and keeps the shrimp fresh. If you don't have Cajun seasoning, use your favorite spices. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper can work. Adjust the amounts to match your taste. Look for shrimp that turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. Make sure they curl into a tight “C” shape. Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but you control the heat. Use less seasoning for milder tacos. You can also add toppings like avocado to balance the spice. Yes, you can prepare the slaw and shrimp in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them fresh. We covered everything you need for great Cajun shrimp tacos. You now know the key ingredients and how to prepare them. We talked about tips for cooking shrimp, making slaw, and warming tortillas. We also explored variations and storage ideas. Enjoy the flavors of these tacos with friends or family. Customize your meal as you like. You can create a unique dish every time. These tacos are both fun to make and eat!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: The Cajun seasoning infuses the shrimp with a delightful kick, making each bite bursting with flavor.
  2. Fresh Ingredients: With crunchy cabbage and creamy avocado, these tacos offer a refreshing contrast to the spiced shrimp.
  3. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
  4. Customizable: Adjust the heat level with your favorite hot sauce or add extra toppings to suit your taste!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Shrimp

– Cajun seasoning

– Olive oil

– Red cabbage

– Avocado

– Corn kernels

– Lime

– Cilantro

– Tortillas

– Salt and pepper

– Optional toppings

To make these Cajun shrimp tacos, you need fresh ingredients. Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. You will also need two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. This spice mix gives the shrimp a bold flavor. Use two tablespoons of olive oil to help cook the shrimp.

Next, grab one cup of finely shredded red cabbage. This will add crunch to your tacos. You’ll want one ripe avocado, sliced for creaminess. For sweetness, add half a cup of corn kernels. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn.

Don’t forget the lime! You need one lime, juiced, plus extra wedges for serving. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, so have half a cup chopped. You’ll also need eight small tortillas. Choose corn or flour based on your preference. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add optional toppings like hot sauce for some heat.

Having these ingredients ready will set you up for taco success!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp

To start, you need to coat the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In a bowl, mix the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss them well. You want each shrimp to be covered in the spices. This adds great flavor.

Now, let’s cook the shrimp. Preheat a large skillet on medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. They are done when they look shiny. Remove the skillet from heat.

Making the Slaw

While the shrimp cook, prepare the slaw. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of finely shredded red cabbage, ½ cup of corn kernels, the juice of 1 lime, and ½ cup of chopped cilantro. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for taste. Toss everything together until it is mixed well. This slaw adds crunch and freshness to your tacos.

Warming the Tortillas

Next, warm the tortillas. You can use two methods. For the skillet method, place the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side. If you prefer the microwave, wrap them in a damp paper towel. Heat them for about 20 seconds until soft. Warm tortillas make the tacos tastier.

Assembling the Tacos

Now it’s time to assemble your tacos. Take a tortilla and lay on a few shrimp. Next, add a generous scoop of the slaw on top. For creaminess, add a few slices of ripe avocado. Drizzle some lime juice over everything. If you like spice, add your favorite hot sauce.

For presentation, serve the tacos on a nice platter. Use parchment paper to line it. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for a fresh look. Enjoy your Cajun shrimp tacos!

Tips & Tricks

Adjusting Cajun Spice Levels

You can change the heat of your tacos easily. Start with two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. If you like it spicy, add more. Taste your shrimp mix before cooking. This way, you find the flavor you love. Remember, you can always add hot sauce later.

Perfecting Cooking Times

Cooking shrimp just right is key. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep an eye on them. If they curl tightly, they are done. It’s better to check early than to overcook.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your tacos with fresh sides. A simple salad or rice works great. You can also serve black beans or chips. For drinks, try a light beer or a zesty lemonade.

For garnishing, use lime wedges and extra cilantro. This adds color and freshness to your plate. You can even sprinkle some extra Cajun seasoning on top for flair.

Pro Tips

  1. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a blend with less heat.
  2. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
  3. Perfectly Warm Tortillas: For an even better tortilla experience, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep them soft and warm until serving.
  4. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or jalapeños to suit your taste!

Variations

Taco Fillings Alternatives

You can switch up the protein in your tacos. If you’re not a shrimp fan, try chicken, fish, or even tofu. Each option gives a different taste and feel to the meal.

– Chicken: Grill or sauté chicken breast with Cajun spices. Shred it for a tasty filling.

– Fish: Use firm fish like tilapia or cod. Cook it with Cajun seasoning for flavor.

– Tofu: For a plant-based option, marinate and fry tofu. It soaks up the spices well.

Different Slaw Options

The cabbage slaw is key to these tacos, but you can add more variety. Think about mixing in extra veggies or fruits.

– Vegetables: Shredded carrots or bell peppers add color and crunch.

– Fruits: Try diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. These can balance the spice nicely.

Tortilla Choices

Tortillas are the base of your tacos. You can choose between flour or corn tortillas, and each has its own charm.

– Corn Tortillas: These have a nice flavor and work well with Cajun spices.

– Flour Tortillas: They are soft and can hold more filling, making them a great choice for bigger tacos.

Experiment with these options to find your favorite mix!

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Tacos

After you enjoy your tacos, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you have shrimp and slaw separate, they will stay fresh longer.

Reheating Tips

To reheat shrimp, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Heat the shrimp for about two minutes. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often to avoid rubbery shrimp.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze cooked shrimp for later use. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They will last up to three months. However, I don’t recommend freezing the tacos with slaw. Fresh ingredients taste best when not frozen.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Cajun Shrimp Tacos?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This method works well and keeps the shrimp fresh.

What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?

If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, use your favorite spices. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper can work. Adjust the amounts to match your taste.

How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Look for shrimp that turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. Make sure they curl into a tight “C” shape.

Are Cajun Shrimp Tacos spicy?

Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but you control the heat. Use less seasoning for milder tacos. You can also add toppings like avocado to balance the spice.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw and shrimp in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them fresh.

We covered everything you need for great Cajun shrimp tacos. You now know the key ingredients and how to prepare them. We talked about tips for cooking shrimp, making slaw, and warming tortillas. We also explored variations and storage ideas.

Enjoy the flavors of these tacos with friends or family. Customize your meal as you like. You can create a unique dish every time. These tacos are both fun to make and ea

- Shrimp - Cajun seasoning - Olive oil - Red cabbage - Avocado - Corn kernels - Lime - Cilantro - Tortillas - Salt and pepper - Optional toppings To make these Cajun shrimp tacos, you need fresh ingredients. Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. You will also need two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. This spice mix gives the shrimp a bold flavor. Use two tablespoons of olive oil to help cook the shrimp. Next, grab one cup of finely shredded red cabbage. This will add crunch to your tacos. You’ll want one ripe avocado, sliced for creaminess. For sweetness, add half a cup of corn kernels. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. Don’t forget the lime! You need one lime, juiced, plus extra wedges for serving. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, so have half a cup chopped. You’ll also need eight small tortillas. Choose corn or flour based on your preference. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add optional toppings like hot sauce for some heat. Having these ingredients ready will set you up for taco success! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, you need to coat the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In a bowl, mix the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss them well. You want each shrimp to be covered in the spices. This adds great flavor. Now, let’s cook the shrimp. Preheat a large skillet on medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. They are done when they look shiny. Remove the skillet from heat. While the shrimp cook, prepare the slaw. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of finely shredded red cabbage, ½ cup of corn kernels, the juice of 1 lime, and ½ cup of chopped cilantro. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for taste. Toss everything together until it is mixed well. This slaw adds crunch and freshness to your tacos. Next, warm the tortillas. You can use two methods. For the skillet method, place the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side. If you prefer the microwave, wrap them in a damp paper towel. Heat them for about 20 seconds until soft. Warm tortillas make the tacos tastier. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos. Take a tortilla and lay on a few shrimp. Next, add a generous scoop of the slaw on top. For creaminess, add a few slices of ripe avocado. Drizzle some lime juice over everything. If you like spice, add your favorite hot sauce. For presentation, serve the tacos on a nice platter. Use parchment paper to line it. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for a fresh look. Enjoy your Cajun shrimp tacos! You can change the heat of your tacos easily. Start with two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. If you like it spicy, add more. Taste your shrimp mix before cooking. This way, you find the flavor you love. Remember, you can always add hot sauce later. Cooking shrimp just right is key. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep an eye on them. If they curl tightly, they are done. It’s better to check early than to overcook. Pair your tacos with fresh sides. A simple salad or rice works great. You can also serve black beans or chips. For drinks, try a light beer or a zesty lemonade. For garnishing, use lime wedges and extra cilantro. This adds color and freshness to your plate. You can even sprinkle some extra Cajun seasoning on top for flair. Pro Tips Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a blend with less heat. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Perfectly Warm Tortillas: For an even better tortilla experience, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep them soft and warm until serving. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or jalapeños to suit your taste! {{image_4}} You can switch up the protein in your tacos. If you're not a shrimp fan, try chicken, fish, or even tofu. Each option gives a different taste and feel to the meal. - Chicken: Grill or sauté chicken breast with Cajun spices. Shred it for a tasty filling. - Fish: Use firm fish like tilapia or cod. Cook it with Cajun seasoning for flavor. - Tofu: For a plant-based option, marinate and fry tofu. It soaks up the spices well. The cabbage slaw is key to these tacos, but you can add more variety. Think about mixing in extra veggies or fruits. - Vegetables: Shredded carrots or bell peppers add color and crunch. - Fruits: Try diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. These can balance the spice nicely. Tortillas are the base of your tacos. You can choose between flour or corn tortillas, and each has its own charm. - Corn Tortillas: These have a nice flavor and work well with Cajun spices. - Flour Tortillas: They are soft and can hold more filling, making them a great choice for bigger tacos. Experiment with these options to find your favorite mix! After you enjoy your tacos, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you have shrimp and slaw separate, they will stay fresh longer. To reheat shrimp, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Heat the shrimp for about two minutes. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often to avoid rubbery shrimp. You can freeze cooked shrimp for later use. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They will last up to three months. However, I don’t recommend freezing the tacos with slaw. Fresh ingredients taste best when not frozen. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This method works well and keeps the shrimp fresh. If you don't have Cajun seasoning, use your favorite spices. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper can work. Adjust the amounts to match your taste. Look for shrimp that turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. Make sure they curl into a tight “C” shape. Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but you control the heat. Use less seasoning for milder tacos. You can also add toppings like avocado to balance the spice. Yes, you can prepare the slaw and shrimp in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them fresh. We covered everything you need for great Cajun shrimp tacos. You now know the key ingredients and how to prepare them. We talked about tips for cooking shrimp, making slaw, and warming tortillas. We also explored variations and storage ideas. Enjoy the flavors of these tacos with friends or family. Customize your meal as you like. You can create a unique dish every time. These tacos are both fun to make and eat!

Cajun Shrimp Tacos

Spicy and flavorful shrimp tacos topped with a fresh cabbage slaw and avocado.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, well-drained)
  • 1 lime juiced (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional hot sauce of your choice for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Toss until the shrimp are well-coated with the spices and oil.
  • Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are cooked through. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
  • While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the slaw. In a separate bowl, mix together the finely shredded red cabbage, corn kernels, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then toss everything together until evenly combined.
  • Warm the tortillas by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or microwave them briefly until soft and pliable.
  • To assemble the tacos, place a few shrimp on each tortilla, generously top with the vibrant cabbage slaw, and add a few slices of avocado for creaminess.
  • Finish by drizzling with additional lime juice, and for those who enjoy a kick, add your favorite hot sauce.

Notes

Serve with lime wedges and extra hot sauce for those who like it spicy.
Keyword Cajun, seafood, shrimp, tacos

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