Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos

Tacos are a favorite go-to for those looking for a quick and tasty meal, but if you’re ready to shake things up a bit, Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos offer a delicious twist. These tacos bring together juicy, perfectly spiced shrimp, protein-rich black beans, and a range of fresh toppings like creamy avocado, zesty lime, and vibrant cilantro. Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also nutritious and easy to whip up, making it an ideal option for any taco night, whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends.

Why Choose Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos?

Shrimp is not just a tasty choice for your tacos; it’s packed with lean protein and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin B12. Black beans are equally nutritious, boasting a good amount of fiber, plant-based protein, and key minerals like iron and magnesium. Together, shrimp and black beans create a satisfying and healthy meal that’s both hearty and full of exciting flavors.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick to prepare and flexible enough to cater to different tastes, Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos fit the bill. With just a few simple ingredients and the ability to mix and match your favorite toppings, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress.

Flavorful and Well-Balanced

The combination of smoky, seasoned shrimp and tender black beans is what makes this dish so irresistible. When the shrimp is coated in a mix of spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic, it takes on a deliciously savory and slightly smoky flavor. Paired with the creamy, hearty texture of black beans, you have a taco filling that’s satisfying without being heavy.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. Fresh toppings such as lime juice, crisp lettuce, and diced avocado bring brightness and texture to the tacos, creating a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. The key to nailing this recipe is cooking the shrimp quickly over high heat to keep them tender and juicy while adding a little bit of char to the outside. This method highlights the shrimp’s natural sweetness and complements the earthy black beans.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos

Apart from being absolutely delicious, these tacos are also a great source of nutrition. Shrimp, a lean protein, is low in calories yet rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s especially beneficial for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal that’s full of flavor without feeling heavy.

Black beans, known for their high fiber content, aid digestion and help to keep you full longer. They are also an excellent source of plant-based protein, making these tacos a good option for those trying to reduce their meat intake. Combining these two powerhouse ingredients provides you with a meal that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Avocado, often included as a taco topping, contributes heart-healthy fats, while a squeeze of lime juice adds a boost of vitamin C. Together, the ingredients form a balanced and nutrient-rich meal that’s both satisfying and light.

Quick, Easy, and Customizable

One of the best things about Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos is how easy they are to make. The shrimp cooks up in just a few minutes, while the black beans can be quickly warmed on the stove. In less than 20 minutes, you can have a full meal ready to serve, making this recipe perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

This recipe is also highly customizable, so you can tweak it to fit your preferences. Love spicy food? Add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Prefer a tangy twist? Pickled onions or a splash of lime juice can bring a new layer of flavor to your tacos. You can even swap out the shrimp for another protein or make a vegetarian version by using grilled veggies in place of the shrimp.

For a lighter option, you can skip the tortillas and serve the shrimp and black beans over a bed of greens or wrapped in lettuce. If you’re looking to cut down on carbs or increase your veggie intake, this is a great way to still enjoy all the flavors without the extra calories.

Toppings and Side Dishes

The beauty of tacos is that you can dress them up however you like, and Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos are no exception. Here are some of the best toppings to complement the shrimp and black beans:

  • Sliced avocado or guacamole: Rich and creamy, avocado is the perfect contrast to the smoky shrimp.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness to the tacos.
  • Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes offer a nice peppery crunch.
  • Pico de gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds a vibrant, tangy element.
  • Cotija cheese: A sprinkle of this salty, crumbly cheese brings a delicious finishing touch.
  • Pickled onions: For a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the shrimp.

As for side dishes, you can’t go wrong with Mexican street corn or a bowl of chips and salsa. For a tropical twist, try pairing the tacos with a refreshing mango salsa or a pineapple slaw, both of which complement the shrimp perfectly. And of course, a crisp Mexican beer or a classic margarita will round out the meal beautifully.

Great for Leftovers and Meal Prep

Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos aren’t just perfect for a quick meal, but they also make for great leftovers. You can easily prepare extra shrimp and beans, store them in the fridge, and reheat them when needed. This makes them ideal for meal prepping, ensuring you have a tasty, nutritious meal ready in minutes whenever hunger strikes.

The leftover components are versatile too. Use them in a burrito bowl with some rice and salsa, toss them into a salad, or stuff them into a wrap for a quick and portable lunch. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos are the perfect blend of bold flavors, health benefits, and ease of preparation. The combination of smoky shrimp, creamy black beans, and fresh toppings creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious and filling. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal to share with friends, these tacos will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Next time taco night rolls around, skip the usual ground beef and try these Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos instead. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple recipe can deliver so much flavor!

Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos Recipe


Yields4 Servings

Ingredients 

 2 tsp canola oil
 ¾ lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
 1.50 tsp ground cumin, divided
  tsp ground red pepper
 15 oz can unsalted black beans
 ½ tsp chili powder
 8 (6-in.) corn tortillas
 1 cup hot cooked brown rice
 ½ cup fresh pico de gallo
 ¼ cup sliced green onions
 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
 Fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

1

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp, 1 teaspoon cumin, and pepper; cook 5 minutes or until done, stirring occasionally. Remove shrimp from pan. Drain beans in a colander over a bowl, reserving 2 tablespoons liquid. Add beans, reserved liquid, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and chili powder to pan; cook 3 minutes, mashing beans with a fork.

2

Working with 1 tortilla at a time, heat tortillas over medium-high directly on the eye of a burner 15 seconds on each side. Divide bean mixture, rice, shrimp, pico, onions, and avocado evenly among tortillas. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size

2 tacos


Amount per serving
Calories408
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11g15%
Total Carbohydrate 61g23%
Dietary Fiber 11g40%
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 22g

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

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Ingredients

 2 tsp canola oil
 ¾ lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
 1.50 tsp ground cumin, divided
  tsp ground red pepper
 15 oz can unsalted black beans
 ½ tsp chili powder
 8 (6-in.) corn tortillas
 1 cup hot cooked brown rice
 ½ cup fresh pico de gallo
 ¼ cup sliced green onions
 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
 Fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

1

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp, 1 teaspoon cumin, and pepper; cook 5 minutes or until done, stirring occasionally. Remove shrimp from pan. Drain beans in a colander over a bowl, reserving 2 tablespoons liquid. Add beans, reserved liquid, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and chili powder to pan; cook 3 minutes, mashing beans with a fork.

2

Working with 1 tortilla at a time, heat tortillas over medium-high directly on the eye of a burner 15 seconds on each side. Divide bean mixture, rice, shrimp, pico, onions, and avocado evenly among tortillas. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve immediately.

Notes

Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos