These Whole30 blackened shrimp tacos are full of flavor! Juicy shrimp are seasoned with tasty spices and served in a fresh lettuce wrap. Super easy to make and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how quick these tacos come together, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, they’re healthy enough that I don’t feel guilty for going back for seconds (or thirds)! 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe as they hold up well to the cooking process. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen shrimp work just fine. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before marinating.
Spices: The blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper gives the shrimp its signature bold flavor. If you’re not a fan of heat, you can reduce the cayenne or replace it with a milder spice like paprika. Also, swapping smoked paprika with regular paprika will make a difference in flavor.
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: Both oils are great for cooking. I prefer avocado oil for its higher smoke point, but olive oil is also a fantastic choice. If you’re avoiding oils, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter option, though it won’t provide the same richness.
Lettuce: Romaine or butter lettuce works great as taco shells. If you’re looking for something sturdier, consider using cabbage leaves. They add a nice crunch and are very nutritious!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness to your tacos. If out of season, you can use canned pineapple in juice, just make sure to drain it well first. Papaya or mango could also be tasty alternatives.
How to Ensure Perfectly Blackened Shrimp?
Cooking blackened shrimp requires attention to ensure they are flavorful and cooked just right. Here’s how to do it:
- First, liberally coat the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat until it’s hot! This helps get that nice char.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming and ensures that the shrimp get that delicious blackened crust.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, as shrimp cook quickly and should be just opaque.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect blackened shrimp, full of flavor and texture! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Whole30 Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tacos:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce or butter lettuce, leaves separated (for taco shells)
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes marinating the shrimp and about 5-10 minutes cooking them and assembling your tacos. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the olive oil (or avocado oil), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to create a flavorful marinade. Then, add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them around until they’re completely coated in that yummy marinade. Let them sit for at least 15-20 minutes so they soak up all the flavors.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, you’ll want to heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is nice and hot, add your marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp turn opaque and have a lovely charred look. This cooking time should be just perfect to have them plump and juicy!
3. Prepare the Toppings and Assemble the Tacos:
While your shrimp are cooking, take a moment to prepare the toppings. In a small bowl, mix together the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. This fresh mixture will add a nice crunch to your tacos! Now, it’s time to assemble. Grab a lettuce leaf and place a few pieces of your blackened shrimp inside. Top them off with the colorful pineapple mixture. If you like a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve your tacos right away and enjoy your delicious Whole30 compliant meal!
Can I Substitute the Shrimp with Another Protein?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chicken or firm white fish like cod or halibut instead of shrimp. Just adjust the cooking times: chicken will take about 5-7 minutes per side, while fish will need 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’re looking to lower the heat, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or omit it entirely. If you like it spicier, consider adding more cayenne or even a pinch of chili powder. You can also serve the tacos with a hot sauce on the side for added flavor.
Can I Prepare the Shrimp Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the shrimp in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure you cook them fresh before serving for the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp, toppings, and lettuce leaves separate in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will last for up to 3 days, while the vegetables should be consumed within 2 days for best freshness. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet or microwave and assemble your tacos fresh when you’re ready to eat!
