Name: Coconut Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Slaw for Tropical Bliss
Prep time: 17 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pineapple chunks (Use canned or fresh, drain juice for slaw.); 0.5 cup finely chopped red pepper (Substitute with yellow or green pepper if desired.); 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage (Green cabbage can be used as an alternative.); 0.25 cup chopped cilantro (Omit if not a fan; parsley can substitute.); 2 tablespoons orange marmalade (Honey or agave syrup can serve as alternatives.); 8 small flour tortillas (Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.); 16 jumbo coconut shrimp (Use homemade batter for a fresher taste or substitute with regular shrimp.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of coconut and fresh pineapple wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-kissed beach. I’ve never been able to resist the allure of tropical flavors, and these Coconut Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Slaw are the perfect way to celebrate that passion. With just 17 minutes of prep time, these tacos are an absolute standout for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, combining a delightful crunch with bright, sweet-tart notes. Plus, the ease of preparation makes them a fantastic option when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. So, are you ready to dive into these vibrant, tropical creations?

Why Are Coconut Shrimp Tacos Irresistible?

Tropical Vibes: These tacos bring a burst of sunshine to your plate with their sweet pineapple slaw and crispy coconut shrimp, transporting you to a beach paradise.
Quick Preparation: In just 17 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends without sweating in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of crunchy textures and bright flavors makes these tacos a guaranteed hit at any gathering—perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners!
Versatile Enjoyment: Feel free to mix things up by swapping shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu, or adding jalapeños for a spicy kick. Enhance your meal further with delicious Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos as a unique dessert option!
Minimal Cleanup: With easy-to-handle tortillas and simple ingredients, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying. Dive into this tropical delight today!

Coconut Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need to create these tropical sensations!

For the Pineapple Slaw

Pineapple Chunks – Provides sweetness and a tropical vibe. Use canned or fresh, drain juice for slaw.
Red Pepper – Adds crunch and a splash of color. Substitute with yellow or green pepper if desired.
Red Cabbage – Supplies texture and a slight earthiness. Green cabbage can be used as an alternative.
Cilantro – Contributes a fresh herbaceous note. Omit if not a fan; parsley can substitute.
Orange Marmalade – Offers a touch of sweetness and glaze for an optional drizzle. Honey or agave syrup can serve as alternatives.

For the Tacos

Flour Tortillas – The vessel for the tacos. Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
Jumbo Coconut Shrimp – Main protein, providing a crunchy, flavorful element. Use homemade batter for a fresher taste or substitute with regular shrimp.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Slaw
In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of pineapple chunks, ½ cup of finely chopped red pepper, 1 cup of thinly sliced red cabbage, and ¼ cup of chopped cilantro. Gently fold in 2 tablespoons of orange marmalade for a sweet glaze. Let this refreshing pineapple slaw sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of your Coconut Shrimp Tacos.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
While the slaw is marinating, preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Warm 8 small flour tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they’re soft and pliable. This will enhance their flavor and make them easier to fill. Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to stay warm as you build your tacos.

Step 3: Cook the Coconut Shrimp
Following the package instructions, cook 16 jumbo coconut shrimp until they are golden brown and crispy. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once ready, remove them from the heat and let them drain briefly on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Place 4-6 pieces of the crispy coconut shrimp onto each warm tortilla. Spoon a generous portion of the prepared pineapple slaw over the shrimp, allowing the vibrant colors to peek through. This step creates a beautiful and mouthwatering presentation for your Coconut Shrimp Tacos.

Step 5: Optional Drizzle
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle additional orange marmalade over each taco. This step is optional but adds a delightful sweetness that complements the crispy shrimp and tangy slaw perfectly.

Step 6: Serve Immediately
Serve your Coconut Shrimp Tacos right away while they’re warm, either on a platter or individually. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy meal at home. Dive into this tropical delight and savor each vibrant bite!

What to Serve with Tropical Coconut Shrimp Tacos?

Enjoying these Coconut Shrimp Tacos with their sweet pineapple slaw is a delightful experience, but let’s elevate that tropical feast!

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping in guacamole or salsa, these chips add an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft tortillas.
Refreshing Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, this salsa enhances the tropical flavor profile while providing a zesty touch that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can complement the tacos by adding a creamy texture, balancing the crispiness of the shrimp and the freshness of the slaw.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice offers a creamy base that echoes the tropical theme and rounds out the meal in a satisfying way.
Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: For a refreshing beverage, blending pineapple and coconut milk creates a cool drink that echoes the flavors in your tacos and delights the senses.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky and sweet, grilling corn adds a rustic touch and enhances the overall summer vibe, making it a perfect side dish for your taco feast.

Imagine gathering your family or friends and serving these delightful pairings alongside your tacos; it’s a table filled with warmth and laughter. Embrace the tropical spirit today!

Make Ahead Options

These Coconut Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Slaw are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pineapple slaw up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh flavor and crisp texture. Just remember to pour off any excess liquid before serving to prevent sogginess. The coconut shrimp can be cooked ahead as well and stored for up to 2 days; simply reheat them briefly in the oven to retain their delightful crunch. When it’s time to enjoy, warm the tortillas, assemble the tacos with the shrimp and slaw, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

How to Store and Freeze Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover coconut shrimp tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to keep the shrimp crispy.

Freezer: If you need to freeze tacos, separate the shrimp and slaw into individual containers. The shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the slaw is best consumed fresh.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen shrimp, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a hot skillet for delightful crunch. Avoid microwaving the shrimp as it can make them soggy.

Assembly: If you’ve stored everything separately, assemble tacos just before serving. This will maintain the freshness and vibrancy of your coconut shrimp tacos.

Coconut Shrimp Tacos Variations

Feel free to bring your own twist to these delicious coconut shrimp tacos!

Dairy-Free: Substitute any creamy sauces with avocado or a cashew cream for a plant-based option.
Baked Shrimp: If you prefer a lighter option, bake the shrimp in the oven instead of frying for a healthier twist.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to infuse these tacos with extra heat for the spice lovers!
Tropical Fruits: Mix in diced mango or kiwi into the slaw for added sweetness and vibrant colors that amplify the tropical vibes.
Different Proteins: Feel free to swap the jumbo shrimp for grilled chicken or firm tofu for a satisfying, yet different protein source.
Crunchy Elements: For added texture, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or slaw on top for that extra crunch that’ll keep your taste buds dancing.
Zesty Slaw: Change up the slaw by using lime juice and zest for a zesty twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Fusion Tacos: Bring an Asian twist by adding sesame seeds and green onions to the slaw, pairing perfectly with your shrimp for a unique fusion experience.

Once you’ve explored these variations, you can also pair your creations with other delightful dishes like Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos for dessert or enjoy a side of Shrimp Sushi Stacks for a complete tropical feast!

Tips for the Best Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pineapple and crunchy vegetables for the slaw. This ensures the coconut shrimp tacos are bursting with vibrant flavors.
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Follow package instructions carefully to avoid undercooking or overcooking the jumbo coconut shrimp, ensuring a delightful crunch.
Warm Tortillas: Heating tortillas enhances their flavor and texture. Soft and warm tortillas complement the crispy shrimp in every bite.
Avoid Overfilling: Be mindful not to overload your tacos. This keeps them tidy and easy to eat, so you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your coconut shrimp tacos!
Add Spice: If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or a spicy sauce to the slaw for an exciting twist on your tropical dish.
Quick Assemble: Work quickly when assembling to enjoy the tacos while everything is warm and fresh, maximizing your satisfaction with each bite!

Coconut Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Slaw Recipe FAQs

How to choose ripe ingredients for the pineapple slaw?
Absolutely! When selecting pineapple, look for one that is firm but slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet aroma at the base. For peppers, choose ones that are vibrant and unblemished; a firm texture indicates freshness. As for cabbage, bright color and crispness are key—avoid any that are wilted or have dark spots.

What’s the best way to store leftover Coconut Shrimp Tacos?
For the best results, store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, I recommend reheating them in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes. This method prevents them from getting soggy, allowing you to enjoy that delightful crunch once more!

Can I freeze the Coconut Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked jumbo coconut shrimp for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the shrimp to cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop to keep that wonderful crispness.

What should I do if my tacos become soggy?
Very! If your tacos turn soggy, it might be due to the slaw being too wet. To fix this, you can drain excess liquid from your slaw before assembling your tacos. Also, serve the slaw on top of the shrimp rather than mixing them. Another handy tip is to warm the tortillas slightly before filling them; this will help to create a barrier and keep everything intact!

Are Coconut Shrimp Tacos suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
The more the merrier! Unfortunately, if someone has a shellfish allergy, they should avoid these tacos as they contain shrimp. A tasty alternative would be to swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu, which still allows for a delicious meal while catering to dietary restrictions.

How long can I keep the slaw in the refrigerator?
You can store leftover pineapple slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed soon after making, as the cabbage may start to wilt and lose its crunch. If you plan to make the slaw in advance, consider adding the orange marmalade just before serving to maintain the texture and flavor.