Ginger Aioli Shrimp Tacos

Name: Ginger Aioli Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup cabbage, shredded; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Around World Recipes

I absolutely love these Ginger Aioli Shrimp Tacos! Combining the zing of fresh ginger with a smooth aioli elevates the simple shrimp taco to an exciting level. The first time I made them, I was amazed by how quickly and easily they came together, all while packing a punch of flavor. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos are always a hit. The creamy ginger aioli adds a richness that pairs perfectly with the freshness of the shrimp and the crunch of the taco shells. You have to try this recipe if you want something delicious and unique!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:38:27.487Z

When I first decided to make ginger aioli for our shrimp tacos, I wasn’t sure how well the flavors would work together. To my surprise, the spicy warmth of ginger blended beautifully with the shrimp, providing a unique twist on traditional tacos. I learned that using freshly grated ginger is key to ensuring the most vibrant flavor in the aioli.

Over the years, I've experimented with various ingredients, but keeping it simple with just a few quality components yields the best results. For added freshness, I recommend quick-pickling some radishes to top your tacos, which adds a delightful crunch and balances the flavors!

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Zesty ginger flavor that enhances the shrimp
Creamy aioli that brings everything together
Perfect for any occasion – casual or festive

      

Perfecting the Ginger Aioli

The ginger aioli is a star component of these tacos, enhancing the shrimp with its creamy texture and zesty flavor. To achieve a perfectly smooth aioli, take care to finely grate the ginger and mince the garlic as this ensures even distribution of flavor. If you find the aioli too thick for your preference, you can thin it with a little extra lemon juice or even a splash of water. This aioli can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!

When seasoning the aioli, start with a moderate amount of salt and pepper. You can always adjust the seasoning according to your taste after mixing. A hint of acidity from the lemon juice not only brightens the aioli but also balances the richness of the mayonnaise. If you want to experiment, try adding a teaspoon of sriracha or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick!

Cooking the Shrimp to Perfection

Cooking shrimp takes just a matter of minutes. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp, as this will help achieve a nice sear. Look for shrimp that are firm and opaque; they'll change color to a lovely pink when thoroughly cooked. Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the shrimp and pulling them off the heat once they curl slightly and become opaque—this usually happens around 2-3 minutes per side.

Using paprika not only adds flavor but also gives the shrimp a beautiful reddish hue. If you're looking for some extra depth, consider incorporating smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the bright ginger aioli. Just remember, shrimp are delicate; a little goes a long way. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet immediately to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

Assembling Your Tacos

Properly warming the corn tortillas is crucial to avoid them tearing when you assemble your tacos. Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are pliable, about 30 seconds on each side. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 20 seconds. Keeping them warm in a cloth towel until all tacos are assembled can help maintain their soft texture for serving.

The layering of ingredients in your tacos plays a key role in the overall taste and texture. Starting with shredded cabbage not only provides a crunchy contrast but also acts as a barrier to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy. Don't skimp on the ginger aioli; it’s the tie that binds all the flavors together. For a fun twist, consider adding sliced avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese for creaminess. Enjoy these tacos fresh for the best flavor!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ginger Aioli Shrimp Tacos

For the Ginger Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup cabbage, shredded
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like avocado or lime!

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Ginger Aioli

In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated ginger, minced garlic, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Cook the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with paprika and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Layer the shredded cabbage, cooked shrimp, and a generous drizzle of ginger aioli. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve immediately and enjoy your zesty tacos!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the tacos. Using fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of the aioli.

Ingredient Substitutions

If mayonnaise isn't your preference, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for the aioli, adding a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy. For those avoiding shellfish, consider using cooked chicken or jackfruit as a base for your tacos, adjusting cooking times accordingly. The paprika can be swapped for taco seasoning for those seeking a more traditional taco flavor, while still allowing the ginger aioli to shine.

For a gluten-free option, ensure your corn tortillas are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten in the processing. If fresh ginger is unavailable, you could use ground ginger in a pinch, though the flavor profile will be different. Only use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger to avoid overpowering the aioli.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover ginger aioli, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, so it's perfect for meal prep. However, I recommend not adding the aioli to the shrimp until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness and prevent sogginess.

Leftover cooked shrimp can also be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through, being careful not to overcook. For a quick meal, you can toss them into a salad or mix into pasta for a flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

These Ginger Aioli Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic base to explore different toppings. You can add diced tomatoes for freshness or a tangy mango salsa to bring sweetness and acidity. For a crunchy element, consider topping with sliced radishes or pickled onions, which will add both color and bite to your dish.

To create a full meal, serve the tacos alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or tortilla chips with a zesty lime wedge. For drinks, a light beer or chilled white wine would pair beautifully with the flavors of the tacos, making for a delightful meal that's perfect for entertaining!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ How long can I store leftover ginger aioli?

You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the aioli?

You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version or avocado for a different flavor.

→ Can I grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a lovely char and flavor to the shrimp.