Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

If you’re looking for a delicious and quick weeknight dinner, look no further than these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw! This recipe is a family favorite at my house, and I’m excited to share it with you. The combination of sweet and tangy cilantro shrimp paired with creamy slaw in soft tortillas creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings with friends.

These tacos are not only scrumptious but also super simple to whip up. Just imagine the delight on your loved ones’ faces when you serve them these vibrant, fresh tacos. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 28 minutes from start to finish, these tacos are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tacos! This dish is great for kids and adults alike.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, each bite bursts with flavor and nutrition.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the shrimp and slaw in advance for an even faster meal.
• Customizable: Have fun with toppings and flavors to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients makes cooking so much more enjoyable! For these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, you’ll find everything you need right here. They are simple, tasty, and packed with goodness.

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 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, your preference)
• Extra lime wedges, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or fish instead of shrimp for a different taste.
• Add some spice: Toss in some jalapeños or hot sauce to heat things up!
• Go vegan: Substitute the shrimp with grilled veggies or tofu, and use dairy-free yogurt for the slaw.
• Change up the slaw: Try adding carrots or radishes for extra crunch and color.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

Start by seasoning your shrimp! In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Toss the shrimp in the marinade until they’re well coated. This step is essential because it infuses the shrimp with deep flavors that will shine through in every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted and sizzling, add the marinated shrimp. Cook them for about 4-6 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Perfectly cooked shrimp are tender and juicy—don’t overcook them!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw

While your shrimp is cooking, prepare the creamy slaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated. This slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the rich flavors of the shrimp.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm your tortillas in another skillet or microwave until pliable. On each tortilla, layer some creamy slaw followed by a generous portion of cilantro lime shrimp. Top it all off with avocado slices for creaminess and extra lime wedges on the side for that zesty kick.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw!

Pro Tips for Making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Making these tacos is a fun and rewarding experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your taco game to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh shrimp, bright limes, and crisp veggies will make your tacos taste vibrant and delicious. Freshness enhances flavor, ensuring every bite bursts with goodness.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – Cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque, which usually takes 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp that detracts from the dish’s overall texture.
• Make the slaw ahead of time – Allowing the creamy cilantro lime slaw to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully. This prep step adds depth to your dish without extra effort during meal time.
• Warm your tortillas – Gently warming your tortillas in a skillet or microwave enhances their flavor and makes them more pliable for wrapping. A little warmth goes a long way in improving the eating experience!
• Customize your toppings – Feel free to add additional toppings such as sliced jalapeños or radishes for an extra kick. Personalizing your tacos allows everyone to enjoy them just how they like!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Serving these tacos can be just as delightful as making them! Presenting your dish with style will impress your guests or family and make mealtime even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the tacos.
• Lime wedges: Providing lime wedges allows everyone to squeeze a burst of freshness on their tacos right before digging in, elevating every bite.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad made with corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices pairs perfectly with shrimp tacos. It adds a crunchy texture and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Black Bean Salsa: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, onions, and peppers creates a hearty side that’s packed with protein. This salsa can also double as a dip for tortilla chips!
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado guacamole is always a hit! Its smooth texture contrasts nicely with the crunchy slaw and tender shrimp, making it a must-have addition.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and fresh cilantro provides a mild base that balances out strong flavors while soaking up any extra taco sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy an amazing meal featuring Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the shrimp and slaw in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp and slaw in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Keep tortillas separate to prevent them from getting soggy.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze only the cooked shrimp, placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Ensure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Consume frozen shrimp within 1-2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.
• Serve with fresh slaw and warm tortillas for the best experience.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use frozen shrimp for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen shrimp can be a great time-saver!

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt for the creamy slaw?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Both will give you that creamy texture you desire.

How can I make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw spicier?

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your slaw. You could also increase the chili powder in the shrimp seasoning!

Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time for these tacos?

Yes! The slaw can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw! They’re not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly fun to assemble. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe brings a touch of sunshine to your table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your taco creations! Happy cooking!