Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

Are you ready to take your taco nights to the next level? These Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema are not just a feast for your taste buds but also an impressive dish that is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Marinated shrimp bursting with Mediterranean flavors, nestled in warm tortillas, and topped with a luscious avocado crema make for a tantalizing meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Whether you’re an experienced home chef or a busy parent looking for quick and delicious meal ideas, this recipe is designed for you. It’s simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal option for anyone who loves vibrant, hearty meals with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos

This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The Souvlaki-style marinade brings bold Mediterranean notes to the succulent shrimp, while the creamy avocado crema adds a refreshing contrast. Here’s what makes this dish stand out:

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, while avocados provide healthy fats. The fresh vegetables and spices complete a healthful and nutritious meal.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a chic gathering with friends, these tacos will impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare these Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp Tacos:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sliced radishes (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

For the Avocado Crema:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To successfully whip up your Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema, gather the following kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or a slotted spoon
• Skillet or grill pan
• Blender or food processor (for the avocado crema)
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Step-by-Step Directions

Marinade the Shrimp

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and infuse the shrimp.

Make the Avocado Crema

1. Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a little water or lime juice to reach your desired consistency.
2. Taste and Adjust: Sample the crema and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or lime juice as desired.

Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat the Pan: In a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Once the pan is hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.

Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the Tortillas: If desired, warm your tortillas in the same skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
2. Fill the Tacos: Place a generous amount of shrimp in each tortilla. Top with avocado crema, and garnish with cilantro, radishes, and chopped tomatoes as desired.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Recipe Variations

• Shrimp Alternatives: If you’re not keen on shrimp or have allergies, feel free to substitute with chicken or tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Heat Things Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the avocado crema for an extra kick.
• Make-Ahead: You can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance for even more flavor. The avocado crema can also be made the day before; just store it in an airtight container to prevent browning.
• Leftover Use: If you have any taco filling left, consider tossing it into a salad or using it in a wrap for lunch the next day!

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the ingredients separately to keep everything fresh.

• Shrimp: Place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Avocado Crema: Store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to minimize browning. It will keep for about 1-2 days in the fridge.
• Tortillas: Keep them in a resealable bag to maintain their softness.

Pairing Suggestions

These Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos pair beautifully with various beverages. Here are some options to consider:

• Drinks: A crisp, cold lager or a refreshing mojito can complement the spices beautifully.
• Sides: Consider serving your tacos with a side of Greek salad, grilled corn, or a light quinoa dish for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I make the shrimp spicier?
You can add cayenne pepper to the marinade or serve with a spicy salsa.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

What can I substitute for tortillas?
For a lower-carb option, try lettuce wraps, or use whole-grain wraps.

Can I prepare the recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Skip the shrimp and substitute with grilled tofu or chickpeas for an equally delicious meal.

Conclusion

Now that you have this fabulous recipe for Souvlaki Style Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema, it’s time to get cooking! This dish combines Mediterranean flair with a beloved Mexican staple, resulting in a unique meal that is both vibrant and satisfying. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

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