Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw Recipe

Introduction

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a vibrant and delicious twist on taco night. Tender shrimp marinated in lime and spices are paired with a fresh, creamy slaw and sliced avocado, all wrapped in soft tortillas. This quick and healthy dish is perfect for any casual dinner or gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon lime zest (from 1 lime)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from that same lime)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped (for shrimp marinade)
• 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped (for slaw)
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (for slaw)
• Avocado, sliced
• 8 6-inch tortillas (corn or flour)
• Extra lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro. Mix until well combined to create the marinade.
2. Step 2: Add the peeled shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while preparing the slaw.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice to make the creamy slaw. Stir until well incorporated.
4. Step 4: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
5. Step 5: Warm the tortillas briefly on a skillet or in the oven. Assemble the tacos by placing cooked shrimp on each tortilla, then top with creamy slaw and sliced avocado.
6. Step 6: Garnish with extra cilantro if desired and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrus burst.

Tips & Variations

• Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes to deepen the flavor.
• Use fresh cilantro, lime, and avocado for the brightest taste.
• Warm tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking and enhance pliability.
• Adjust honey in the marinade to balance the tanginess if needed.
• Try toppings like mango salsa, pickled red onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
• Substitute shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain texture, store shrimp and slaw separately if possible. Reheat shrimp by warming in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Warm tortillas separately on a skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Assemble fresh before serving for the best experience.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other seafood for these tacos?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp with fish, scallops, or even chicken for different flavors and textures that work well with this recipe.

What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?

These tacos pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, corn salsa, grilled street corn, or a fresh black bean salad to complete the meal.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 128 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (2 tacos each) 1x

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Description

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a vibrant and delicious twist on taco night, featuring tender marinated shrimp with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, nestled in soft tortillas. Topped with a creamy slaw made from crunchy cabbage and Greek yogurt, these tacos offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Quick, healthy, and satisfying, they are ideal for any gathering or a quick weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon lime zest (from 1 lime)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from that same lime)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped

For the Slaw

• 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 whole lime)

Additional Ingredients

• Avocado, sliced
• 8 6-inch tortillas (corn or flour, your preference)
• Extra lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro. Whisk until well combined to create the flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the slaw.
3. Make the Creamy Slaw: In another bowl, mix shredded green cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a creamy and tangy slaw.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
5. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle until they are pliable and tender, but not crispy or brittle.
6. Assemble the Tacos: Place cooked shrimp on each warmed tortilla. Top with a generous portion of creamy slaw and sliced avocado. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
7. Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top for an added citrus burst.

Notes

• Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor; if using frozen, fully thaw before marinating and cooking.
• Do not overcook shrimp; cook just until pink and opaque to avoid toughness.
• Adjust the honey in the marinade to balance lime acidity according to taste.
• Warm tortillas just before assembling to prevent cracking and improve pliability.
• The creamy slaw can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated for convenience.
• Experiment with additional toppings like jalapeños, pickled onions, or feta cheese for extra flavor.
• Store leftovers separately—shrimp and slaw to maintain best textures.
• Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet; avoid microwave for best quality.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Keywords: shrimp tacos, cilantro lime shrimp, creamy slaw, Mexican tacos, quick dinner, healthy tacos, seafood tacos, lime shrimp