Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that is rich in essential nutrients such as iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. It is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, including tacos. Grilled shrimp tacos are a delicious and healthy option for summer dinner recipes. They are easy to make, require minimal prep time, and are packed with flavor.
Why Grilled Shrimp Tacos are Best for Healthy Summer Dinner Recipes?
Grilled shrimp tacos are a healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork tacos. Shrimp is a lean protein source that contains fewer calories and less fat than beef or pork. Moreover, grilling shrimp adds a smoky and charred flavor, making them taste delicious without adding extra calories.
Shrimp is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower inflammation in the body. Adding avocado to the tacos provides healthy fats and essential nutrients like potassium, fiber, and vitamins C, K, and B6. Tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to a lower risk of cancer and heart disease.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Tacos
To make grilled shrimp tacos, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
For the chipotle aioli, you will need:
- 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through.
- While the shrimp are grilling, heat the corn tortillas on the grill for 10-20 seconds on each side until they are warm and slightly charred.
- To make the chipotle aioli, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- To assemble the tacos, place a few pieces of shrimp on each tortilla, top with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of chipotle aioli.
Helpful Tip: To prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled before placing the shrimp skewers on them. You can also soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen shrimp for grilled shrimp tacos?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before grilling. To thaw frozen shrimp, place them in the refrigerator for a few hours or run them under cold water until they are no longer frozen.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas are traditionally used in Mexican cuisine and have a unique flavor and texture that complements the grilled shrimp.
Can I substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt in the chipotle aioli?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt, but Greek yogurt is a healthier option as it is lower in fat and calories and higher in protein.
Can I add other toppings to my grilled shrimp tacos?
Yes, you can customize your grilled shrimp tacos by adding other toppings like shredded lettuce, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or crumbled queso fresco.
Freezing
Grilled shrimp tacos can be frozen, but it is recommended to freeze the ingredients separately to maintain their texture and flavor. To freeze the shrimp, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and label them with the date. To freeze the tortillas, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
The chipotle aioli can be frozen in an ice cube tray and then transferred to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw the shrimp and tortillas in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat them on the grill or in the oven. The chipotle aioli can be thawed in the refrigerator or microwave.
Storage
Grilled shrimp tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the tortillas from getting soggy, store the shrimp, avocado, and tomato separately and assemble the tacos when ready to eat. The chipotle aioli can be stored in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information
One serving of grilled shrimp tacos (2 tacos) contains approximately 320 calories, 11 grams of fat, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 21 grams of protein. The tacos are also a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and calcium. The nutritional content may vary depending on the toppings and amount of chipotle aioli used.
Grilled shrimp tacos are a delicious and healthy option for summer dinner recipes. They are easy to make, require minimal prep time, and are packed with flavor. By using lean protein sources like shrimp, healthy fats like avocado, and antioxidant-rich vegetables like tomatoes, grilled shrimp tacos can be a nutritious addition to your diet. With the helpful tips and information provided in this article, you can easily make and enjoy grilled shrimp tacos at home.
