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Shrimp taco salad is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy all the delicious elements of a taco in a light and fresh salad form.

The crispy homemade tortilla bowl adds a satisfying crunch, while the seasoned shrimp and colorful toppings bring vibrant flavors to every bite.

This salad is highly customizable with your favorite toppings, making it a perfect meal for a casual dinner or a fun lunch.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the tortilla bowls:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • Cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or taco seasoning (optional, for flavor)

For the shrimp:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

For the salad:

  • 4 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced
  • Optional add-ons: black beans, guacamole, diced tomatoes, tomatillos, corn, red onion, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Make the tortilla bowls (15 minutes):
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Lightly spray or brush both sides of each tortilla with cooking spray or oil. If desired, sprinkle with chili powder or taco seasoning for added flavor.
    • To shape the tortilla bowls, you can use oven-safe bowls or inverted muffin tins. Gently press the tortillas into the bowls or between the inverted cups of the muffin tin to form a bowl shape.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the molds.
  2. Cook the shrimp (8-10 minutes):
    • In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
    • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked shrimp and set aside.
  3. Assemble the salad (5 minutes):
    • In each tortilla bowl, layer the chopped lettuce as the base.
    • Add diced red bell pepper, shredded cheese, and sliced jalapeños.
    • Top with the cooked shrimp and any optional add-ons such as black beans, guacamole, diced tomatoes, tomatillos, corn, or red onion.
  4. Serve:
    • Garnish the salad with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a lime wedge on the side.
    • Serve immediately, enjoying the combination of crispy tortilla, spicy shrimp, and fresh, vibrant toppings!

Notes

To make the tortilla bowls even more flavorful, consider brushing them with a garlic-infused oil before baking.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet. This salad is incredibly versatile, so feel free to mix and match the toppings to suit your taste.

The crispy tortilla bowl, combined with the seasoned shrimp and fresh toppings, makes this dish both satisfying and refreshing!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition