Caribbean Grilled Shrimp Tacos

 

I don't often have fresh shrimp in my fridge, but I do normally have shrimp in my freezer.  Thawed or fresh shrimp need to be used within two days.  This recipe will not disappoint if you find yourself in a position where you need to use or lose fresh shrimp.  The spice combination in this recipe is like no other.  It is super good!

1 lb large raw deveined shrimp with tail off

4 cloves garlic minced

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp salt

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp ground cloves

1/4 tsp cayenne

2 Tbsp olive oil

Rinse your shrimp and allow them to thaw if frozen.  Peel them, if required.  Add them to a large bowl.

Add minced garlic, brown sugar, salt, paprika, cloves, cayenne and olive oil to the bowl with the shrimp.  Stir until evenly coated and let sit for at least 30 minutes.

Pineapple Salsa

1/2 pineapple sliced into four wedges -- you may use canned or jarred

1 large tomato

1/2 red onion, sliced very thin

Juice of one lime

1 bunch of fresh cilantro (divided)

Salt to taste

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.  Add 1 Tbsp olive oil.  Place pineapple spears directly onto the grill grates.  Cook for 3 - 5 minutes on each side.  Once the pineapple has grill marks remove it from the grill and set aside to cool.  

To prepare your pineapple salsa, dice your tomato and pineapple.  Add fresh squeezed lime juice.  Toss in a Tablespoon of minced cilantro and season with salt to taste. 

Cook your Shrimp

Preheat the same grill lor grill pan to medium-high heat.  Add 1 Tbsp olive oil.  Place your shrimp on the grill and cook for 3 minutes per side or until opaque.  Remove from pan and set aside to build your taco.

Other Ingredients

6 Flour or Corn tortillas

2 cups shredded cabbage

Warm your tortillas in the microwave by placing them on a dinner plate and topping them with a damp paper towel.  Microwave them for one minute.

Build your taco:  

Once your ingredients are prepared, build your taco.  Top a warm tortilla with 1/3 cup shredded cabbage, cooked shrimp and pineapple salsa.  Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.