Jalapeño Pineapple Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Garlic Sauce

Jalapeño Pineapple Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Garlic Sauce are a bold, tropical twist on traditional tacos—combining sweet, spicy, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. Juicy shrimp are seared with jalapeños, paired with caramelized pineapple, and drizzled in a vibrant cilantro garlic sauce. These tacos are fresh, exciting, and ideal for taco nights, summer cookouts, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tacos strike the perfect balance: sweet pineapple, spicy jalapeño, savory shrimp, and creamy, herby sauce. They’re fast and easy to make, packed with bright flavors, and endlessly customizable. Plus, they feel gourmet while staying totally approachable. The cilantro garlic sauce takes it to the next level—cool, zesty, and addictive.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp Tacos:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Jalapeño (sliced, seeds removed for less heat)
• Pineapple (diced, fresh or canned)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Lime juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Corn or flour tortillas

For the Cilantro Garlic Sauce:

• Fresh cilantro
• Garlic
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Lime juice
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Water (to thin as needed)

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cabbage or lettuce
• Pickled red onions
• Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• Extra lime wedges

directions

this recipe

1. Make the Cilantro Garlic Sauce:
   In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, garlic, yogurt, mayo, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth. Add water to thin if needed. Chill until ready to use.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
   Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
3. Cook the Shrimp and Pineapple:
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly caramelized. Set aside.
   In the same pan, add pineapple and jalapeño slices. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly charred and caramelized.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   Warm tortillas, then fill with shrimp, pineapple, and jalapeños. Drizzle with cilantro garlic sauce and add your favorite toppings.
5. Serve:
   Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 tacos (about 4 servings).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or leave jalapeño seeds in.
• Tropical Twist: Use mango or papaya in place of pineapple.
• Creamier Sauce: Add avocado to the cilantro garlic sauce.
• Low-Carb: Serve as lettuce wraps instead of in tortillas.
• Grilled Version: Grill the shrimp and pineapple for smoky flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp, pineapple, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat shrimp and pineapple in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Tortillas should be freshly warmed before assembling.
Cilantro garlic sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating and cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild to moderate heat. Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your spice preference.

What tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas also work well for these tacos.

Can I grill the shrimp?

Absolutely—grill on skewers or in a grill basket over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side.

What’s the best substitute for cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or a mix of basil and mint for a fresh twist.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, make the sauce up to 5 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.

What kind of pineapple should I use?

Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned (in juice, not syrup) works well when fresh isn’t available.

Are these tacos dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt or mayo alternative in the sauce to make it dairy-free.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook on high heat just until they turn pink and opaque—2–3 minutes per side is usually enough.

What goes well with these tacos?

Try with black beans, Mexican street corn, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Pineapple Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Garlic Sauce are an explosion of tropical flavor and spicy zest wrapped in a warm tortilla. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with bold, refreshing ingredients. Whether you’re planning a taco night, summer gathering, or just want a bright and delicious dinner, these tacos will steal the show.

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