Salsa Verde Shrimp Tacos and Jalapeno Shrimp Tacos

With Wednesday's prize winning recipe, Southwestern-Style Shrimp Tacos, for the Gorton's/Ortega recipe challenge the taco creations made yesterday were just okay. Although tasty and a good flavor combo, they lacked that flavor explosion in every bite.

The Salsa Verde Shrimp Tacos were yellow corn taco shells layered with the popcorn shrimp, black beans, avocado, (which I thought that alone would make these stellar, I was wrong.) green onions, red bell pepper, salsa verde, and cilantro sprinkled on top. The salsa verde made the tacos and I was thankful to have had extra avocado slices leftover to get excited about. Yes. I stood over the cutting board with salt shaker in hand and they didn't have a fighting chance. Devoured. Savored.

Jalapeno Shrimp Tacos I thought would be a good concept. A yellow corn taco shell topped with popcorn shrimp, tomato, green onions, pickled jalapenos, sour cream, a squeeze of lime and sprinkled with cilantro. Just not what I expected. Not enough heat maybe? Too toned down from the sour cream? However. I believe the bar was set too high.

I still submitted my recipes and maxed out my five entries. I think these tacos knew they didn't stand a chance against the Southwestern-Style Shrimp Tacos because my cheapo point and shoot camera couldn't even capture a decent photo. Maybe my lack of enthusiasm over this recipe had something to do with the taste. Not a question. Maybe I put the fate of the tacos in the hands of 2 two year olds and they weren't as well received as the day prior. Once again not a question. All facts.

I'm 2 for 5 in this recipe challenge for a success rating with the family. While I am not confident with 4 of the 5 recipes a valuable lesson was learned; I gave it my best shot, I got creative, and realized I'm still a recipe follower and will leave the trial and errors to the professionals.