If you’re looking to bring authentic Mexican flair to your table, Nopales and Shrimp Tacos are a must-try. These tacos combine tender shrimp, slightly tangy cactus paddles (nopales), and vibrant seasonings wrapped in warm tortillas for a dish that’s both light and deeply satisfying.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend cookout, this recipe blends freshness, spice, and texture into a single, colorful bite. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants — a wholesome twist on a classic street-food favorite.
Ingredients
Serves 4 (Makes 8 tacos)
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Nopales
- 2 cups fresh nopales (cactus paddles), cleaned and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
For Assembly
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Nopales
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add diced nopales.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until tender and the sticky residue is gone.
- Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Nopales Mixture
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions and jalapeño, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked nopales and diced tomato. Cook for 2–3 minutes, season with salt, then set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- In another skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic, shrimp, chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm tortillas on a skillet or directly over a flame.
- Layer nopales mixture and shrimp in each tortilla.
- Garnish with cilantro, cotija cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately while warm, with extra lime wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh avocado salsa for a complete meal.
- Add pickled red onions or chipotle mayo for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve with grilled corn on the cob and a chilled agua fresca for an authentic experience.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 tacos) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Protein | 27 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 26 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 420 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp is high in lean protein and rich in selenium, supporting muscle and immune health.
- Nopales (cactus paddles) are low in calories, high in fiber, and known for aiding digestion and stabilizing blood sugar.
- Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats and enhances the flavor of both the shrimp and cactus.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp — they only need a few minutes to stay juicy and tender.
- For added smokiness, grill both the shrimp and nopales instead of sautéing.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest flavor.
- If using canned nopales, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt and brine flavor.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Chipotle Version: Add a teaspoon of adobo sauce or chipotle powder to the shrimp marinade.
- Creamy Avocado Twist: Mix diced avocado with the nopales mixture for a richer filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with grilled mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
These Nopales and Shrimp Tacos bring together bold Mexican flavors, tender seafood, and the unique texture of cactus for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Quick, colorful, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for anyone who loves bright, fresh, and healthy meals with a gourmet twist.
Whether you’re hosting taco night or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition — all wrapped up in a tortilla.