Prawn Cocktail Mini Tacos: A Flavorful Bite-Sized Delight

Prawn cocktail mini tacos are the perfect combination of fresh, zesty flavors wrapped in a crispy, bite-sized taco shell. This recipe elevates the classic prawn cocktail by adding a crunchy tortilla base and a creamy, tangy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing an appetizer, or just craving something delicious, these mini tacos will impress every guest at the table.

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Ingredients for Prawn Cocktail Mini Tacos

For the Prawns:

• 250g (9 oz) cooked prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cocktail Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

For the Mini Taco Shells:

• 8 small tortillas (cut into smaller rounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnishing:

• 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup diced avocado
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Prawns

1. In a bowl, toss the cooked prawns with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the prawns for 2 minutes until warmed through. Set aside.

2. Make the Cocktail Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
2. Stir well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Mini Taco Shells

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cut small rounds from the tortillas using a cookie cutter.
3. Brush each round lightly with olive oil and drape them over the edges of an upside-down muffin tin to form taco shells.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown. Let them cool before removing.

4. Assemble the Mini Tacos

1. Place a small amount of shredded lettuce into each taco shell.
2. Add a spoonful of the prawn mixture, followed by a drizzle of cocktail sauce.
3. Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh coriander.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the mini tacos on a serving plate.
2. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

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Tips for the Best Prawn Cocktail Mini Tacos

1. Use Fresh Prawns

For the best taste, use freshly cooked prawns rather than pre-packaged ones. The natural sweetness enhances the dish.

2. Crispier Taco Shells

If you prefer extra crispy shells, lightly toast them in a dry pan for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.

3. Customize the Sauce

Adjust the spice level of the cocktail sauce by adding more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

4. Make It Ahead

Prepare the taco shells and cocktail sauce in advance to save time when serving. Simply assemble just before eating.

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Suggested Variations

1. Spicy Prawn Tacos

Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the cocktail sauce for a fiery kick.

2. Mango and Prawn Mini Tacos

For a tropical twist, add diced mango alongside the avocado for a sweet and savory combination.

3. Vegan Mini Tacos

Replace prawns with grilled mushrooms or jackfruit and use vegan mayo for the sauce.

4. Creamy Avocado Base

Swap the cocktail sauce for a blend of mashed avocado, lime juice, and Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy alternative.