My husband Gary loves tacos, so I’m always experimenting with new fillings. The classic meat-cheese-lettuce-salsa combo gets predictable, but tacos are endlessly adaptable. If you enjoy easy, WW-friendly taco meals like my Easy Chicken Enchilada Tacos, these spice-rubbed shrimp soft tacos are a fast, flavorful, and lighter option.
Shrimp cooks quickly, stays low in fat and calories, and soaks up bold spices, making these tacos a satisfying weeknight meal that doesn’t feel heavy.

Why I Love These Shrimp Tacos
- Shrimp cooks in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- A simple spice rub delivers bold flavor without heaviness.
- They’re naturally low in fat and calories.
- Suitable for low-carb, WW-friendly, and flexible eating styles.
- Toppings are quick to customize based on what you have.
- They feel indulgent while remaining light.
- Leftovers are easy to repurpose for other meals.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined – Lean and fast-cooking; fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work.
- Lime juice – Brightens the shrimp and helps the seasoning adhere.
- Fresh cilantro – Adds fresh herb flavor. Swap with green onion if you dislike cilantro.
- Spices (cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne) – A warm, simple blend; reduce cayenne for less heat.
- Neutral oil (canola, avocado, or similar) – For sautéing.
- Low-carb flour tortillas – Keeps the tacos WW-friendly; use corn tortillas or hard shells as desired.
- Greens (baby arugula or slaw mix) – Adds crunch; shredded cabbage or lettuce also work.
- Roma tomatoes – For juiciness and balance.
- Salsa verde – Tangy and moist; red salsa or mango salsa are tasty alternatives.
- Jalapeño (optional) – For extra heat.
- Boursin herb cheese spread (optional) – A thin swipe adds creamy richness without much extra.
How Many Calories and WW Points?
Each 2-taco serving is approximately 365 calories.
WW Points: 3
For personalized WW Points, track the recipe in the WW app while logged in on your device. PointsPlus (old plan): 8

How To Make Soft Shrimp Tacos Step by Step
- Pat the shrimp dry and place them in a bowl. Add lime juice and toss to coat.
- In a small bowl combine cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Sprinkle the blend over the shrimp and gently toss to coat.
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook 5 to 7 minutes, turning once, until opaque and cooked through.
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions.
- Assemble the tacos: spread a thin layer of cheese spread if using, add shrimp, then greens, tomatoes, salsa, cilantro, and jalapeño to taste.
Recipe Notes and Variations
- Swap in your favorite taco or Southwest seasoning blend if you prefer.
- Try red salsa or a fruity mango salsa for a different flavor profile.
- Use corn tortillas or crunchy shells instead of flour tortillas.
- To keep it Paleo or Keto, serve the shrimp in lettuce wraps.
- A light smear (about ½ teaspoon) of Boursin adds a creamy twist with minimal added calories.
Serving Suggestions

- Serve with spicy black beans and rice, or low-carb cauliflower rice.
- Pair with a fresh corn and tomato salad for a bright side.
- Top with fresh tomato and corn salsa for extra crunch and flavor.
- Turn the filling into a salad to cut carbs and add crunch with a few crushed tortilla chips.
- Switch tortillas for a baked sweet potato half for a heartier option.
- Finish with a sprinkle of feta or cotija cheese for a salty touch.

Ways to Use Leftovers
- Turn leftover shrimp into a quick soup with broth, cabbage, and salsa.
- Make shrimp and cheese quesadillas for an easy lunch.
- Sauté shrimp with rice or cauliflower rice and an egg for a taco-inspired fried rice.
- Add shrimp, feta, and spinach to an omelet for a protein-packed breakfast.
If you’ve tried these Shrimp Soft Tacos, please rate the recipe and leave a comment about how you liked it.

Spice-Rubbed Shrimp Soft Tacos
Equipment
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Chef Knife
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Cutting Board
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Skillet
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 teaspoons canola oil
- 8 (6-inch) low carb flour tortillas
- 2 cups baby arugula or packaged cole slaw mix (shredded cabbage/carrots)
- 1/2 cup roma tomatoes, diced
- 8 tablespoons jarred salsa verde
- 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 4 teaspoons Boursin herb cheese spread (optional)
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry and place in a bowl. Add fresh lime juice and toss.
- Combine cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl and whisk to combine.
- Sprinkle spices on shrimp and mix gently to coat.
- Add oil to a skillet and heat over medium-high.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook 5–7 minutes, turning once until cooked through.
- Warm tortillas according to package directions.
- Top each tortilla with about 1 teaspoon cheese spread if using, shrimp, arugula or slaw, tomato, salsa, cilantro, and jalapeño.
Notes
WW Points: 3
Use red salsa or mango salsa for a different taste.
Substitute corn tortillas or hard shells if you prefer.
To make it Paleo or Keto, roll the shrimp in lettuce leaves.
Try spreading 1/2 teaspoon Boursin herb cheese on the tortilla for a new twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 365 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 28.2 g,
Protein: 42 g,
Fat: 8.7 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Additional Info
Recipe source: Adapted from Weight Watchers Fresh and Easy 20 Minute Meals
More WW-Friendly Shrimp Recipes
If you like these Spice-Rubbed Shrimp Tacos, you might also enjoy:
- No-Cook Tex-Mex Shrimp Rolls – a quick, refreshing option for warm days.
- Garlic Shrimp with Oil and Hot Peppers – bold, simple flavors that come together fast.
- Southern Barbecued Shrimp – rich, saucy shrimp with plenty of flavor.
- Curried Shrimp with Garlic, Lime and Cilantro – a vibrant dish with warm spices and fresh citrus.