Shrimp Tacos Aquí Me Quedo

The Shrimp Tacos ‘Aquí Me Quedo’ blend smoky, zesty, and creamy elements into one unforgettable taco experience. By charring the chiles for your guacamole and slowly infusing olive oil with garlic and dried chile, you create layers of depth that elevate these tacos beyond the ordinary. The shrimp, marinated and grilled to tender perfection, add a juicy pop to every bite.

Perfect for summer nights or Taco Tuesday, this dish is a bold celebration of fresh flavors and sustainable seafood. It’s an ideal meal for those who love spice, texture, and creativity in the kitchen. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it your new favorite go-to when you want restaurant-level tacos at home.

Full Recipe:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 2 dried guajillo chiles (or 1 tsp red pepper flakes)

• 1/4 teaspoon cumin

• Salt to taste

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1 serrano or jalapeño pepper

• 1/4 onion, roughly chopped

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt to taste

• 8 corn tortillas

• 1/2 cup shredded melting cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella)

• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Directions:

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium. Add garlic slices and cook until lightly golden. Add guajillo chiles (or red pepper flakes) and cumin. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt.

3. Grill the serrano or jalapeño and onion until charred. Scoop out the avocado flesh into a bowl. Add charred pepper and onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mash together to desired texture.

4. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred.

5. In a pan, sprinkle a little cheese on one half of each tortilla. Fold and heat until cheese melts and tortilla softens.

6. Unfold tortillas, spread with guacamole, top with grilled shrimp, drizzle ajillo salsa, and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: ~320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

Tacos are a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, but shrimp tacos in particular have coastal origins. Found predominantly in states like Baja California, Sinaloa, and Nayarit, shrimp tacos emerged as a regional specialty where fresh seafood is abundant. Fishermen and beach vendors would grill up the day’s catch and serve it with homemade salsas, freshly pressed tortillas, and seasonal vegetables.

The name “Aquí Me Quedo” translates to “Here I Stay,” evoking the feeling many have after taking their first bite—why go anywhere else when perfection is right here? This specific version is influenced by traditional ajillo-style cooking, where garlic is slowly cooked in oil to create a deeply flavorful base. When paired with sustainably sourced shrimp and a guacamole made with flame-charred chiles, it becomes a modern homage to Mexico’s coastal culinary heritage.

This dish also reflects the rising awareness and movement toward sustainable seafood practices in Mexico and beyond. Chefs and home cooks alike are being more intentional with their ingredients, ensuring they’re both flavorful and environmentally responsible.

Variations and Adaptations

Like many classic recipes, shrimp tacos are incredibly versatile. Different regions of Mexico—and even households—have their own spin on this staple:

• Baja-style shrimp tacos typically feature battered and fried shrimp, topped with cabbage slaw and creamy chipotle sauce.

• In Yucatán, you might find them served with pickled red onions and habanero salsa.

• Some cooks prefer grilling the shrimp with achiote paste or other spice blends, giving the dish a deeper, earthy flavor.

• For a healthier twist, grilled or sautéed shrimp with a simple lime and garlic marinade works well with lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

• If you want a plant-based version, grilled hearts of palm or oyster mushrooms mimic the texture of shrimp surprisingly well.

You can also play around with the guacamole—add mango or pineapple for a sweet touch, or a splash of tequila for extra flair. The ajillo salsa, too, can be made milder or spicier depending on your preference.

Nutritional Information

Shrimp Tacos Aquí Me Quedo are not just flavorful—they’re quite balanced nutritionally as well. Let’s break down the main components:

• Shrimp is a lean protein source, offering about 20g of protein per 3 oz serving with very little fat and just 85–100 calories. It’s rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.

• Avocado contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and K.

• Garlic and chiles bring antioxidants, metabolism-boosting compounds, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Corn tortillas, especially when made traditionally with masa harina, are naturally gluten-free and provide dietary fiber and magnesium.

An average serving of two tacos lands around 300–350 kcal, with a macro breakdown that’s roughly 30–35% protein, 40–45% healthy fats, and 20–25% carbohydrates (depending on the tortillas and toppings).

Micronutrients worth noting include:

• Vitamin E, folate, and lutein from avocado

• Zinc and phosphorus from shrimp

• Capsaicin from chiles, which can aid digestion and reduce inflammation

These tacos are not only satisfying but also surprisingly nutrient-dense, making them a smart option for anyone trying to balance health with flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Shrimp Tacos Aquí Me Quedo are a show-stopping centerpiece, but they shine even brighter when paired thoughtfully. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Side Dishes:

  • Grilled street corn (Elote) with cotija and chili powder

  • Cilantro-lime rice or Mexican-style quinoa

  • Pickled red onions or radishes for added tang and crunch

• Drink Pairings:

  • A crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc or Verdejo

  • Light Mexican lagers with a lime wedge (like Pacifico or Modelo Especial)

  • Non-alcoholic options like agua fresca—think tamarind, hibiscus, or cucumber-lime

Serve everything family-style for a laid-back vibe that invites everyone to build their own tacos. Don’t forget extra napkins—things might get deliciously messy.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use fresh or wild-caught shrimp when possible. Pat them dry before grilling to get a nice sear.

• Don’t overcook the garlic in your ajillo salsa. Start with a cold pan and oil, and let the garlic gently infuse as the heat increases.

• Char your guacamole ingredients well. A blackened pepper and onion add smokiness that makes the guac unforgettable.

• Warm the tortillas on a skillet or directly over flame to get that deliciously pliable and slightly toasty edge.

• Melt cheese into the tortilla. This isn’t mandatory, but folding cheese into the tortilla as it heats gives extra flavor and holds the taco together better.

• Serve immediately. These tacos are best hot, especially with the contrast of cool guac and warm shrimp.

Potential Health Benefits

Shrimp Tacos Aquí Me Quedo come with more than just great flavor—they bring several health perks too:

• Cardiovascular health: Shrimp is low in saturated fat and high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants like astaxanthin, which may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

• Digestive support: Garlic and chiles are known for their prebiotic properties and digestive benefits.

• Blood pressure control: Avocados and limes are rich in potassium, a mineral crucial for managing blood pressure levels.

• Weight management: High in protein and healthy fats, this dish can be quite satiating, helping you feel full without overeating.

• Immune boosting: The combination of zinc, selenium, vitamin C, and E helps strengthen the immune system.

Of course, moderation is key—especially with the cheese and oil. But as part of a well-rounded diet, these tacos check a lot of boxes for nutrient density and satisfaction.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos Aquí Me Quedo are more than just a recipe—they’re a flavorful tribute to Mexican coastal cuisine, sustainable eating, and the joy of sharing good food. With every element—from the smoky guac to the sizzling garlic-chile oil—you get a bite that’s deeply satisfying and undeniably memorable.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for friends or just treating yourself on a Tuesday night, these tacos promise to deliver flavor, freshness, and a bit of culinary adventure. So why not stay a while? With tacos like these, “Aquí Me Quedo” makes perfect sense.