If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious meal, this Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to dinner. It brings together perfectly seasoned, juicy shrimp with a creamy, tangy slaw that bursts with zesty lime and fresh cilantro notes, all wrapped in warm, soft tortillas. Every bite sings with a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feels like a little fiesta on your plate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be excited to share it with friends and family, making it a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but pack a punch, creating layers of flavor and exciting textures that make the shrimp tacos so irresistible. Each item—from the spices coating the shrimp to the tangy dressing for the slaw—plays an essential role in balancing freshness, heat, and creaminess.
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, quick to cook and full of flavor when seasoned.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to coat the shrimp for even cooking and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings mild heat and depth to the shrimp seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the seafood perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides subtle smokiness and color to the shrimp.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory notes without overpowering the bright flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the other ingredients.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Infuses brightness right into the shrimp marinade.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or mix of red and green): Crisp base for the cilantro lime slaw adding crunch and freshness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Invigorates the slaw with herbal brightness and aroma.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creates a luscious texture in the slaw dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (or more mayo): Adds creamy tang and lightness to the slaw mix.
- Juice of 1 lime: The key to that signature tangy zing in the cilantro lime slaw.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of gentle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Perfectly seasons the slaw to bring out all the flavors.
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas: The perfect vehicle to wrap all the delicious fillings.
- Lime wedges, for serving: Adds an extra fresh squeeze of citrus just before eating.
- Extra chopped cilantro, for garnish: A lively pop of green and aroma on top.
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, hot sauce, crumbled queso fresco: Customize each taco to your heart’s desire.
How to Make Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by combining olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss in the shrimp and coat them thoroughly with this vibrant spice blend. Letting the shrimp marinate for 10 to 15 minutes allows these flavors to marry beautifully, infusing the shrimp with a bright and slightly smoky taste that sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw
While the shrimp is marinating, it’s the perfect time to whip up the zesty slaw. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Then stir in the shredded cabbage and chopped cilantro. The slaw provides a refreshing crunch and a tangy, herbaceous lift that perfectly balances the warm, spiced shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp in a single layer for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and are cooked through but still juicy. This quick sear locks in all that marinade goodness while keeping the shrimp tender.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Gently warm your chosen tortillas until they are soft and pliable—this makes them easier to fold without cracking. You can do this quickly in a dry skillet or even the microwave if you’re short on time. Warm tortillas are essential to hold all your delicious fillings snugly.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Now comes the fun part—building your tacos! Start with a generous scoop of cilantro lime slaw on each tortilla, then add 3 to 4 juicy shrimp on top. Finish with extra chopped cilantro, avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, and a squeeze of fresh lime for that final burst of flavor. If you like a little heat, drizzle some hot sauce for an extra kick.
How to Serve Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take this shrimp taco experience from great to unforgettable. Adding extra cilantro leaves on top brings freshness and color, while creamy avocado slices mellow out the spices. A bit of crumbled queso fresco adds a salty, crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with both the shrimp and slaw. Don’t forget a wedge of lime on the side—its juice brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
These shrimp tacos shine beautifully with light, complementary sides. Mexican street corn (elote), black bean salad, or even a simple bowl of tortilla chips with salsa make delightful partners. You can also serve them with a refreshing cucumber salad or cilantro-lime rice to make it a full, festive meal everyone will enjoy.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or make family dinners extra special? Consider serving the shrimp tacos buffet-style so everyone can build their own with personalized toppings. Alternatively, arrange them on a large platter with colorful garnishes and sides for a stunning presentation. Using mini tortillas can make for perfect bite-sized appetizers at parties that will wow your crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover shrimp or slaw, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp should stay fresh for up to 2 days, and the slaw can last about 3 days. Keeping them apart prevents the tortillas from getting soggy and maintains the vibrant textures when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Freezing
While shrimp tacos are best fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp on their own for up to 2 months. Just cool the shrimp completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze. However, avoid freezing the slaw or assembled tacos as the texture of the cabbage and tortilla will suffer.
Reheating
To reheat leftover shrimp, use a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through, which usually takes a few minutes. Reheat tortillas separately by wrapping in foil and warming them in the oven or microwave. Serve with freshly tossed slaw for the best taco experience that’s almost as good as fresh!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture. Frozen shrimp work very well and are a convenient option.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the slaw?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use extra mayonnaise or even sour cream. Each option will add creaminess with slight differences in flavor but still delicious results.
How spicy are these shrimp tacos?
This Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe is mildly spiced due to chili powder and paprika, making it approachable for most tastes. You can add hot sauce or jalapeños if you want to turn up the heat.
Can I make the slaw dairy-free?
Yes, swap the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for dairy-free versions or use a vinaigrette dressing instead. The cabbage and cilantro will still provide refreshing crunch and flavor.
What type of tortillas work best?
Either corn or flour tortillas work wonderfully for this recipe. Corn tortillas offer authentic flavor and a slightly firmer texture, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable for wrapping.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe that makes it feel like a celebration in every bite. Fresh, flavorful, and quick to prepare, these tacos are sure to become a favorite when the craving for something fresh and delicious strikes. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes your family’s new weeknight hero—give it a try and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors that make it unforgettable!
Print
Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw offer a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Succulent shrimp are marinated in a blend of spices and lime juice, then pan-seared to perfection. They’re paired with a creamy, tangy slaw featuring fresh cilantro and lime, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be customized with additional toppings like avocado and queso fresco.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lime
Cilantro Lime Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of red and green)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (or more mayo as substitute)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Extra chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, hot sauce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper with the shrimp. Toss well to coat all the shrimp and let it marinate for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw: While the shrimp is marinating, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the shredded cabbage and chopped cilantro, then toss thoroughly to combine. Set the slaw aside so the flavors meld.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from heat.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over low heat or microwave them briefly until they are soft and pliable, ready for assembly.
- Assemble the Tacos: Lay the tortillas flat and add a generous amount of cilantro lime slaw to each. Top with the cooked shrimp, then garnish with extra chopped cilantro. Add optional toppings like avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- For best results, do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust the spice level of the marinade by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored separately in the fridge and assembled fresh before eating to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
