Name: Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 tbsp Skinny Creamy Caesar Dressing; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; 1 lb jumbo shrimp; ¼ tsp kosher salt; black pepper; pinch red pepper flakes; ½ lemon; 2 tbsp italian parsley; 8 corn Tortillas; 8 Romaine lettuce leaves; 2½ tbsp parmesan cheese; 2 Scallions; For Skinny Creamy Caesar Dressing:; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese; 1 lemon; 1 clove small garlic; ½ tbsp dijon mustard; 2 anchovy filets; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 5 tbsp Greek yogurt; ⅛ tsp kosher salt; black pepper

Get ready for a culinary adventure! This recipe combines the sizzle and flavor of shrimp scampi with the fresh crunch of a caesar salad, all wrapped up in a taco. It's a new spin on traditional favorites, blending Italian and Mexican influences for a dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're looking to shake up taco night or seeking a gourmet meal that's simple to prepare, these shrimp scampi tacos with caesar salad slaw are the perfect choice.

Photos of Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that might not be staples in your pantry, such as jumbo shrimp, anchovy filets, and Greek yogurt. When shopping, you want to make sure you're choosing high-quality, fresh jumbo shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Likewise, anchovy filets are a key ingredient in the Caesar dressing, lending a unique, savory depth. If you've never used them before, you can typically find them in the canned fish section of your supermarket. Greek yogurt is used here as a lighter, healthier substitute for the traditional mayonnaise in Caesar dressing.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw

Skinny creamy caesar dressing: This is a lighter version of the classic Caesar dressing, using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It's tangy, creamy, and full of flavor.

Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the shrimp scampi.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and shrimp, it adds a fruity, peppery note.

Garlic: Essential for the flavor base of the shrimp scampi.

Jumbo shrimp: The star of the dish, jumbo shrimp are meaty and succulent.

Kosher salt and black pepper: For seasoning the shrimp.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the shrimp scampi.

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and complements the shrimp.

Italian parsley: Adds a fresh, herby flavor.

Corn tortillas: The vehicle for the shrimp and slaw, corn tortillas add a delicious, slightly sweet flavor.

Romaine lettuce: Used in the Caesar salad slaw for its crisp, refreshing crunch.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the Caesar salad slaw and the shrimp.

Scallions: Gives a mild, oniony taste and a pop of color.

One reader, Bartlett Daly says:

The shrimp scampi tacos with caesar salad slaw recipe is a game-changer! The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty caesar dressing, and crunchy slaw in a warm tortilla is a burst of flavors. It's a delightful twist on traditional tacos and a must-try for seafood lovers. I highly recommend it!

Bartlett Daly

Cooking Techniques for Shrimp Scampi Tacos With Caesar Salad Slaw

How to make skinny creamy caesar dressing: Combine parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic, dijon mustard, anchovy filets, and olive oil in a blender. Blend until smooth, then add Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.

How to cook shrimp scampi: Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet, then sauté garlic. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes on each side until opaque and cooked through. Add red pepper, lemon juice, and parsley, then toss to coat.

How to heat tortillas: Heat the tortillas according to the package directions, usually by warming them in a dry skillet or in the oven.

How to toss caesar salad slaw: In a medium bowl, toss the romaine lettuce with the prepared caesar dressing until evenly coated.

How to assemble shrimp scampi tacos: Divide the cooked shrimp among the warmed tortillas, spoon the pan sauce over the shrimp, and top with freshly grated parmesan and scallions. Serve with the caesar salad slaw on the side.

How To Make Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw

If you’ve ever tried our shrimp scampi with fresh plump shrimps infused in butter and lemon, you know that this taco recipe will be just as tasty.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5tbspSkinny Creamy Caesar Dressing,divided
1tbspunsalted butter
1tspextra-virgin olive oil
2clovesgarlic,minced
1lbjumbo shrimp,peeled and deveined, tails removed
¼tspkosher salt
black pepper,freshly ground, to taste
pinchred pepper flakes
½lemon,juiced
2tbspItalian parsley,fresh chopped
8cornTortillas
8romaine lettuce leaves,thinly sliced
2½tbspParmesan cheese,freshly grated
2scallions,chopped

For Skinny Creamy Caesar Dressing:

⅓cupparmesan cheese,freshly grated
1lemon,juiced
1clovesmall garlic
½tbspdijon mustard
2anchovy filets
1tbspextra-virgin olive oil
5tbspGreek yogurt,0% fat
⅛tspkosher salt
black pepper,freshly ground, to taste

Instructions

In a small blender or food processor, combine dressing ingredients.
Process until smooth, adding a little water, if necessary, for thinner consistency. Set aside.
Add butter and oil to a large skillet over medium heat. When butter is melted, add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
Add shrimp and season with 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper.
Cook 2 minutes, flip, then add another 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper.
Cook an additional 2 minutes or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Remove from heat and add red pepper, lemon juice, and parsley. Toss to evenly coat.
Meanwhile, heat tortillas according to package directions.
In a medium bowl, toss lettuce with 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing.
Divide tortillas and shrimp evenly among 4 plates.
Spoon pan sauce over shrimp, top each with freshly grated parmesan, scallions, and Caesar slaw.
Divide remaining 3 tablespoons of dressing evenly over tacos.

Nutrition

Calories: 365.09kcal
Fat: 16.24g
Saturated Fat: 6.78g
Trans Fat: 0.14g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.83g
Carbohydrates: 28.67g
Fiber: 4.66g
Sugar: 2.24g
Protein: 27.87g
Cholesterol: 167.58mg
Sodium: 1024.02mg
Calcium: 365.65mg
Potassium: 368.76mg
Iron: 1.79mg
Vitamin A: 188.24µg
Vitamin C: 16.59mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Shrimp Scampi Tacos With Caesar Slaw

When preparing the shrimp, make sure not to overcook them as they can become tough and lose their succulent flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes per side, and you'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Also, when tossing the lettuce with the Caesar dressing, do it gently to avoid bruising the leaves and maintain their crisp texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Seafood Taco Recipe

Plan ahead: Prep ingredients and tools before starting to cook to streamline the process and avoid last-minute rushes.

Multitask: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for water to boil.

Use pre-made ingredients: Utilize store-bought items like pre-washed lettuce or pre-made dressings to cut down on prep time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to minimize time spent searching for utensils and ingredients.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to ensure efficient and effective cooking without the need for adjustments.

Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw Recipe

shrimp - Substitute with sliced chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp to create a similar texture and flavor profile in the dish.
caesar dressing - Substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and garlic: This substitute provides a creamy and tangy flavor similar to caesar dressing while reducing the overall fat content.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
corn tortillas - Substitute with lettuce leaves: Lettuce leaves can be used as a low-carb alternative to corn tortillas for a lighter taco option.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a similar umami flavor to parmesan cheese and is a suitable substitute for a dairy-free option.
anchovy filets - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste can be used to provide a similar depth of flavor and saltiness as anchovy filets in the caesar dressing.
jumbo shrimp - Substitute with sliced mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can be used to provide a meaty texture and absorb the flavors of the dish as a substitute for shrimp.

Plating Ideas for Shrimp Scampi Tacos With Caesar Slaw

Elevate the taco presentation: Carefully arrange the shrimp scampi tacos on the plate, ensuring they are neatly placed and not overcrowded. The presentation should be visually appealing and inviting.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce colorful elements such as the green romaine lettuce leaves and the bright red pepper flakes to add visual interest to the dish.
Highlight the Caesar salad slaw: Place the Caesar salad slaw in a small, elegant bowl or arrange it in a visually appealing manner on the plate to showcase its freshness and texture.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped Italian parsley over the shrimp scampi tacos to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Drizzle the Caesar dressing with precision: Use a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to delicately drizzle the skinny creamy Caesar dressing over the tacos, ensuring an even distribution without overwhelming the dish.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the vibrant ingredients to stand out, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish thoughtfully, considering symmetry and balance to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Pay attention to the details: Wipe any smudges or spills on the plate, ensuring a clean and polished presentation that reflects attention to detail.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp Scampi Tacos

Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Tortillas: Thin, unleavened flatbread made from corn or wheat flour, used in Mexican cuisine.
Small blender or food processor: A compact kitchen appliance used for blending, puréeing, or processing small quantities of food.
Medium bowl: A bowl of moderate size used for mixing, tossing, or serving food.
Large skillet: A wide, deep pan used for cooking a variety of dishes, including sautéing, frying, and braising.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, or tossing salads.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate foods such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.
Citrus juicer: A tool designed for extracting juice from citrus fruits such as lemons or limes.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, or reheating food.
Kitchen tongs: A versatile tool used for gripping, lifting, and turning food while cooking.
Whisk: A utensil with a handle and wire loops, used for beating, whipping, and stirring ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Shrimp Scampi Tacos

To store leftover shrimp scampi tacos, wrap each taco individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped tacos in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
If you have leftover caesar salad slaw, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The slaw will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, store the shrimp, tortillas, and caesar salad slaw separately.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a griddle, and then assemble the tacos with the reheated shrimp and the leftover caesar salad slaw.
If you want to freeze the shrimp scampi for later use, cook the shrimp as directed in the recipe and allow them to cool completely. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw frozen shrimp scampi, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
It's not recommended to freeze the caesar salad slaw or the tortillas, as their texture and quality may deteriorate after freezing and thawing.

How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Scampi Tacos With Caesar Salad Slaw

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp scampi and caesar salad slaw in separate oven-safe dishes. Cover the dishes with aluminum foil to prevent the food from drying out. Heat the shrimp scampi for about 10-12 minutes and the slaw for about 5-7 minutes, or until they reach your desired temperature.
If you have a microwave, you can reheat the shrimp scampi in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep the shrimp moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For the caesar salad slaw, it's best to reheat it separately in the oven, as microwaving may cause the lettuce to become soggy.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the corn tortillas on a griddle or in a skillet over medium heat. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they're warm and slightly crispy. You can also wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and heat them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the shrimp scampi and crisp up the corn tortillas. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp scampi in the air fryer basket and cook for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For the tortillas, place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they're crispy.
To maintain the flavor and texture of the caesar salad slaw, it's best to store the dressing separately from the lettuce and other ingredients. When reheating, toss the slaw with the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.

Interesting Trivia About Shrimp Scampi Tacos With Caesar Salad Slaw

Shrimp scampi tacos are a fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines, combining the flavors of garlicky shrimp scampi with the convenience of a taco. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional shrimp scampi, adding a refreshing and zesty Caesar salad slaw to complement the flavors.

Budget-Friendly: Making Shrimp Scampi Tacos at Home

This shrimp scampi tacos with caesar salad slaw recipe offers a good balance of cost-effectiveness. The use of affordable ingredients like shrimp, corn tortillas, and romaine lettuce keeps the overall cost reasonable. The incorporation of Greek yogurt in the dressing provides a cost-effective yet creamy texture. The addition of anchovy filets and parmesan cheese may slightly increase the cost, but their flavors are essential for an authentic Caesar dressing. Overall, this recipe rates an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a budget-friendly yet flavorful meal.

Is This Seafood Taco Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This shrimp scampi tacos with caesar salad slaw recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as shrimp, garlic, lemon, parsley, romaine lettuce, and scallions. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The recipe also uses Greek yogurt in the caesar dressing, which is a healthier alternative to traditional high-fat dressings.

However, there are some areas of concern. The recipe calls for butter and olive oil, which can add significant amounts of saturated and unsaturated fats. Additionally, the corn tortillas and parmesan cheese contribute to the overall carbohydrate and fat content of the dish. The sodium content may also be high due to the use of salt, anchovies, and parmesan cheese in the dressing.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and oil used in cooking the shrimp, or opt for a healthier cooking method such as grilling or baking
Choose whole-grain or low-carb tortillas instead of traditional corn tortillas to increase fiber content and reduce simple carbohydrates
Use a reduced-fat parmesan cheese or a smaller amount of the regular variety to decrease the overall fat and calorie content
Prepare the caesar dressing with a reduced amount of anchovy fillets or omit them entirely to lower the sodium content
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more romaine lettuce or incorporating other nutrient-dense options like cherry tomatoes, red onions, or bell peppers

Editor's Opinion on These Flavorful Shrimp Scampi Tacos

The combination of shrimp scampi and Caesar salad in taco form is a brilliant fusion of flavors and textures. The creamy Caesar dressing adds a delightful tanginess to the succulent shrimp, while the crunch of the romaine lettuce and the cheesy parmesan provide a satisfying contrast. The use of corn tortillas as the taco shell adds a wonderful earthy flavor that complements the seafood. Overall, this recipe is a refreshing and innovative take on traditional shrimp scampi, and the addition of the Caesar salad slaw elevates it to a whole new level of culinary delight.

Enhance Your Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Grilled pineapple salsa with a hint of lime and cilantro, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to complement the shrimp scampi tacos.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Savory bacon-wrapped asparagus spears, adding a smoky and crispy texture to balance out the creamy caesar salad slaw in the tacos.

Mango Avocado Salad: Fresh mango and creamy avocado salad with a zesty lime dressing, providing a refreshing and tropical side to accompany the shrimp scampi tacos.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Shrimp Scampi Tacos

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cook the beef short ribs in a rich red wine sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender, perfect for a comforting and hearty meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mangoes and creamy coconut milk with chia seeds for a refreshing and nutritious dessert or breakfast option.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Shrimp Scampi Tacos With Caesar Slaw

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these crispy coconut shrimp. Each bite is a crunchy, succulent delight, paired with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate lava cake that oozes with rich, molten chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the succulent taste of jumbo shrimp with the zesty tang of lemon juice and the richness of parmesan cheese. The use of extra-virgin olive oil and Italian parsley adds a touch of freshness, while the creamy Caesar dressing brings a harmonious balance to the dish. With a focus on quality ingredients and a meticulous cooking process, this recipe promises a tantalizing experience that will surely elevate your love for seafood and Mexican cuisine. Trust in this recipe to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of cooking.

Want to share your take on this Shrimp Scampi Tacos with Caesar Salad Slaw Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How can I make the creamy Caesar dressing for the shrimp scampi tacos?

To make the creamy Caesar dressing, you will need to blend together ⅓ cup of parmesan cheese, the juice of 1 lemon, 1 small clove of garlic, ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 anchovy filets, 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, 5 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, ⅛ teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary for a thinner consistency.

Can I use a different type of lettuce for the Caesar salad slaw?

Yes, you can use a different type of lettuce for the Caesar salad slaw if you prefer. While romaine lettuce is traditionally used in Caesar salad, you can also use other varieties such as iceberg or mixed greens based on your preference.

How should I heat the tortillas for the shrimp scampi tacos?

You can heat the tortillas according to the package directions. This can be done by either heating them in a skillet, microwave, or oven, depending on the instructions provided on the package.

Can I substitute the jumbo shrimp with another type of seafood?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of shrimp, you can easily substitute it with another type of seafood such as scallops, fish, or even lobster. The cooking time may vary depending on the seafood you choose, so be sure to adjust accordingly.

Is it necessary to use jumbo shrimp for this recipe?

While jumbo shrimp are recommended for this recipe, you can also use large or extra-large shrimp if jumbo shrimp are not available. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the shrimp are cooked through without becoming overdone.