Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevate any meal. These tacos are perfect for a casual dinner with friends, a quick weeknight meal, or even a festive gathering. The sweet and tangy shrimp paired with creamy slaw and buttery avocado make these tacos irresistible. Plus, they are easy to prepare, ensuring that you can enjoy taco bliss without the fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 28 minutes, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in no time.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cilantro and lime gives these tacos a vibrant taste that brightens up your meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and fiber from cabbage, these tacos make for a nutritious dinner choice.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a family get-together, these tacos fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet is essential for sautéing shrimp evenly and achieving that perfect sear.
- Mixing Bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows for easy preparation of the slaw and marinade without mixing flavors prematurely.
- Whisk: A whisk helps combine the creamy slaw ingredients smoothly for an even texture.
- Tongs: Use tongs to easily flip the shrimp in the skillet without losing any flavor.
Ingredients
Sweet and tangy cilantro shrimp, buttery avocado, and creamy cilantro lime slaw wrapped in a soft tortilla hug—what kind of taco bliss is this!?
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
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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 Creamy Slaw
- 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 whole lime)
For Serving
- Avocado, sliced
- 8 6-inch tortillas (corn or flour)
- Extra lime wedges, for serving
How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, butter, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the slaw.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw
In another mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla followed by creamy slaw and slices of avocado.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with extra lime wedges on the side for those who love an extra kick of citrus! Enjoy your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for any gathering. Serve them up in style with these delicious suggestions.
Fresh Garnishes
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime enhances the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
- Extra cilantro – Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for added freshness and color.
Accompaniments
- Sliced avocado – Add creamy slices of avocado for richness and texture.
- Hot sauce – Offer your favorite hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
Beverages
- Margaritas – A classic pairing that complements the tangy flavors of the tacos.
- Mexican beer – Light lagers or ales will balance the spices wonderfully.
How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
To make the most out of your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh shrimp and vegetables ensure vibrant flavors and better texture in each bite.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – Cook until just opaque to maintain tenderness; about 2-3 minutes per side is ideal.
- Warm the tortillas – Gently heat tortillas to make them pliable and enhance their flavor.
- Customize your slaw – Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or radishes for added crunch and color.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Pair your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with some delightful side dishes that elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime.
- Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, diced peppers, and a lime vinaigrette.
- Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes a great appetizer.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños adds brightness to your plate.
- Cilantro Rice – Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime complements the tacos beautifully.
- Chips and Salsa Verde – Crispy tortilla chips served with tangy salsa verde for a zesty dip option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make simple mistakes when preparing cilantro lime shrimp tacos. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to properly season the shrimp can lead to bland tacos. Make sure to use enough salt, pepper, and spices for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so overcooking can make it tough. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat until they turn pink.
- Neglecting the slaw: A creamy slaw adds essential texture and taste. Don’t skip it; mix your slaw ingredients well for a flavorful crunch.
- Choosing the wrong tortillas: Using low-quality tortillas can ruin your tacos’ experience. Opt for fresh corn or flour tortillas that suit your preference.
- Skipping garnishes: Don’t forget to add lime wedges and avocado slices. These toppings enhance flavor and presentation, making your meal more enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep shrimp and slaw separate from tortillas to maintain freshness.
Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 3 months in a sealed freezer bag.
- It’s best to freeze the shrimp only; assemble tacos fresh when ready to eat.
Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat shrimp in 30-second intervals until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Sauté shrimp in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding cilantro lime shrimp tacos that many home cooks have.
Can I make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the shrimp and slaw in advance. Just assemble them in tortillas right before serving for freshness.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the slaw?
You may use sour cream or vegan yogurt as alternatives if you prefer something different or dairy-free.
How spicy are these tacos?
The spice level depends on the chili powder used. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference, or use milder spices if desired.
Can I use frozen shrimp instead?
Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw them properly before cooking for even results in your cilantro lime shrimp tacos.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are not only delicious but also versatile! They can be customized with various toppings or sides according to your taste. Enjoy this taco bliss at your next gathering or as a quick weeknight dinner option!
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. These tacos feature succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty cilantro-lime blend, complemented by a refreshing creamy slaw and buttery avocado. With just 28 minutes of prep and cooking time, this easy recipe promises deliciousness without the fuss. Enjoy taco bliss that bursts with freshness and is sure to impress your family and friends!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 2 limes)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Tortillas (corn or flour)
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro. Add shrimp and marinate for 10 minutes.
- Combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice in another bowl for the slaw.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; cook marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink.
- Warm tortillas; fill each with shrimp, creamy slaw, and avocado slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
