These shrimp tacos are a burst of flavor! With zesty cilantro and refreshing lime, they pack a tasty punch. The creamy slaw adds a nice touch that makes each bite oh-so-good!
I love how easy these tacos are to whip up, and they’re perfect for a quick dinner or a fun weekend meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a taco night with friends? 🌮🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for tacos since they’re meaty and can hold up to cooking. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them in advance. Scallops or even fish fillets could also make a great substitute.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can skip it altogether or use parsley for a different herbal note. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.
Greek Yogurt: This is a great base for the creamy slaw, bringing tang and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based yogurt. Sour cream can also be used if you like that richer taste.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings zest to both the shrimp and the slaw. You could use lemon juice if you don’t have limes, but the flavor will be a bit different. Bottled lime juice is convenient but may not have the same fresh punch.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas add a lovely flavor to these tacos. If you’re gluten-free, stick with corn tortillas. Flour tortillas are softer and can be used if you prefer a different texture.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp quickly and properly is key to keeping them tender and juicy. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Here’s how to avoid that.
- Start by marinating shrimp for 15-30 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that pink color!
- Work in batches if your pan is too crowded, as this will help achieve nice browning.
Remember, shrimp are done when they turn opaque, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking! The timing can vary based on your heat level, so adjusting accordingly is key for success.
Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Creamy Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp honey (or agave syrup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Serving:
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Avocado slices
- Extra lime wedges
- Additional chopped cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 10-15 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Allow about 30 minutes total, including marinating the shrimp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
First, grab a mixing bowl. In it, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy!), salt, and pepper. Now, add the peel-and-deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them around until they’re well-coated with the marinade. Let them sit and soak up those flavors for about 15-30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Creamy Slaw:
While the shrimp is marinating, let’s make the slaw! In another bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until it’s all smooth and well-blended. Now, fold in the sliced cabbage and chopped cilantro. Make sure everything is combined, then set the slaw aside for now.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque! Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed so they all get the perfect sear.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
In another dry skillet or even on a grill, warm up the tortillas. Just pop them on for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable. You want them warm but not crispy!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part! Grab your warm tortillas and place a few shrimp in each one. Top it off with your creamy slaw and add some delicious avocado slices. Sprinkle on extra cilantro for a nice touch and throw some lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick!
6. Enjoy:
Dig in and savor these fresh and zesty shrimp tacos while they’re still warm. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp fully before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for a quicker option. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure the flavors crisp up nicely when cooked!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to the Slaw?
Feel free to get creative! Shredded carrots, red cabbage, or even sliced bell peppers can add color and crunch to your slaw. Just remember to keep the overall volume similar so you maintain the right balance of creamy to crunchy!
How to Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos?
Store any leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat and assemble your tacos fresh again!
Can I Make the Slaw in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the creamy slaw a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just keep it covered to prevent browning. Give it a quick stir before serving, and if you find it thickened, add a splash of lime juice to loosen it up!
