Quick and Healthy Shrimp Tacos ready in no time. These tacos are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, while the fresh toppings provide vitamins, antioxidants, and a hint of natural sweetness.
Enjoy these tacos as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a snack. They’re perfect for meal prep too, so you can make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
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Why This Recipe is a Fun, Restaurant-Quality, and Healthy Treat:
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, paprika, and chili powder gives the shrimp a delicious kick, while the pico de gallo, pineapple, and papaya salad add a fresh, tangy, and sweet contrast. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that will make you feel like you’re dining at a gourmet restaurant.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple and fast to prepare, making it perfect for busy professionals. You can whip up these tacos in under 20 minutes, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps keep you full and energized. The fresh toppings add essential vitamins and antioxidants, making this meal not only delicious but also highly nutritious.
- Budget-Friendly: Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. Shrimp, corn tortillas, and fresh produce are all affordable ingredients that deliver great taste and nutrition. This recipe proves that you can enjoy restaurant-quality meals without the hefty price tag.
- Versatile and Fun: Tacos are fun to assemble and customize. You can mix and match the toppings to suit your taste or what you have on hand. It’s a great way to involve the whole family in meal prep and make eating healthy a fun experience.
INGREDIENTS YOU NEED
- Shrimp: Shrimp is a lean protein that’s low in calories but high in essential nutrients like iodine, which supports thyroid function, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder create a rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the shrimp. Salt helps to bring out all these flavors.
- Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are a healthier option compared to flour tortillas as they are typically lower in calories and made with whole grains. They have a wonderful, slightly sweet corn flavor that complements the shrimp and toppings.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the shrimp. It’s also packed with vitamins A and C.
- Diced Pineapple: Pineapple adds a sweet and tangy element to the tacos, balancing out the spices on the shrimp. It’s also a great source of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion.
- Papaya Salad: Papaya salad adds a tropical flair and a refreshing crunch to the tacos. Papayas are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, making this a nutritious addition to your meal.
How to meal prep grilled shrimp tacos
1. Prep the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and olive oil. Mix well to ensure every shrimp is evenly coated with the flavorful seasoning.
2. Grill the Shrimp: Heat your indoor grill to medium-high heat and give it a quick spray with cooking spray. Place the seasoned shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful opaque color.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp is cooking, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 10 seconds per side. This makes them soft and pliable, perfect for assembling your tacos.
4. Assemble Your Tacos: Now, the fun part! Fill each warm tortilla with the grilled shrimp. Top them with your choice of pico de gallo, diced pineapple, and papaya salad. These toppings add a burst of freshness and a delightful crunch to your tacos.
Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Meal Prep Pairing Tips
- Avocado Salad: A simple salad with sliced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a squeeze of lime juice adds a creamy and tangy side.
- Black Bean Salad: Mix black beans with corn, red bell pepper, cilantro, and a touch of lime juice for a protein-packed and colorful side dish.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob brushed with a mixture of Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
- Fruit Sorbet: A refreshing mango or pineapple sorbet is a perfect way to end the meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Combine fresh berries, kiwi, and a touch of mint for a light and sweet treat.
- Coconut Chia Pudding: A creamy and nutritious dessert made with coconut milk and chia seeds, topped with fresh fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have an indoor grill?
No problem! You can cook the shrimp in a regular non-stick skillet. Just make sure to cook them until they turn opaque and are cooked through.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes, this recipe is versatile. You can use other seafood like fish (tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi) or scallops. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp, pico de gallo, pineapple, and papaya salad in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. Reheat the shrimp and tortillas before assembling the tacos.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Equipment
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
For Assembling the Tacos
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition