Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Sweet and tangy Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos bring a burst of flavor that everyone will love. The combination of succulent shrimp, a zesty creamy slaw, and ripe avocado wrapped in warm tortillas makes these tacos an irresistible treat. With easy preparation and fresh ingredients, you can create taco bliss right in your kitchen!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy these delicious tacos in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cilantro, lime, and spices creates a vibrant taste that excites the palate.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or meal prep; these tacos fit any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and fresh veggies in the slaw, these tacos are nutritious as well as tasty.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients or toppings based on your preferences for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your cilantro lime shrimp tacos, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp, giving them that perfect sear.
• Mixing bowls: These help keep your ingredients organized while mixing the slaw and seasoning the shrimp.

Ingredients

Sweet and tangy cilantro shrimp, buttery avocado and creamy cilantro lime slaw wrapped in a soft tortilla hug and drizzled with extra sauciness- what kind of taco bliss is this!?

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon EACH salt and black pepper
• 1 teaspoon EACH smoked paprika, garlic powder and 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 Assembly

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

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, lime zest, and lime juice.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade. Toss until evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once melted and hot, add marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw

1. In another mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage with chopped cilantro.
2. Add Greek yogurt and lime juice to the mixture. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
2. Layer each tortilla with cooked shrimp followed by creamy slaw.
3. Top with sliced avocado and extra cilantro if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over your tacos! Enjoy every bite of these flavorful Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Serving Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw is all about enhancing the vibrant flavors of the dish. These tacos are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime over the tacos right before eating for an extra zesty kick.

Avocado Slices

• Add buttery avocado slices on top to complement the spicy shrimp and creamy slaw.

Pickled Red Onions

• A tangy addition that adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the shrimp.

Extra Cilantro Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the tacos for a burst of freshness and color.

Hot Sauce

• Offer your favorite hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little heat.

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How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

To make your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos unforgettable, follow these handy tips. Small adjustments can lead to big flavor improvements!

• Marinate the shrimp: Letting the shrimp sit in lime juice and spices for at least 15 minutes enhances their flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime make a noticeable difference in taste compared to dried or bottled versions.
• Warm tortillas: Softening tortillas in a skillet or microwave improves texture and makes them easier to fold.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the seasoning based on your preference; more chili powder gives it extra heat while less keeps it mild.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Pairing side dishes with your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal even further. Here are some delightful options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn topped with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder adds a sweet and savory element.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing offers protein and fiber.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast to the zesty tacos; serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
4. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for a great crunchy companion.
5. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices rounds out the meal nicely.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful roasted veggies brings both flavor and nutrition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious outcome.

• Ignoring the marinade time: Marinating the shrimp for too little time can result in bland flavors. Make sure to let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the zesty lime and cilantro.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking will make them rubbery. Cook for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Skipping the slaw: The creamy slaw adds essential crunch and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it balances the tacos perfectly.
• Using stale tortillas: Fresh tortillas enhance the taco experience. Always check for freshness or warm them properly before serving.
• Not adjusting spice levels: The seasoning can be customized according to your taste. If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the chili powder and paprika.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to one month for best quality.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Warm each taco for 1-2 minutes on each side, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

What type of tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas provide an authentic flavor, but flour tortillas are also great if you prefer a softer texture.

How can I customize the creamy slaw?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or red cabbage for added crunch and color, or adjust the yogurt ratio for creaminess.

What sides pair well with these tacos?

Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw offer a delightful combination of flavors that is perfect for any dinner occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making them an excellent choice for everyone. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy taco night like never before!

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a delightful fusion of flavors that make for a perfect meal any day of the week. These tacos feature succulent, marinated shrimp grilled to perfection and paired with a zesty, creamy slaw that adds crunch and freshness. Wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with buttery avocado, each bite is a burst of deliciousness. Ideal for taco night or casual gatherings, this easy recipe will impress your family and friends without requiring hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients that make these tacos not only tasty but also a healthy option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb wild-caught shrimp
• ½ teaspoon EACH salt and black pepper
• 1 teaspoon EACH smoked paprika, garlic powder and 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
• 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 whole lime)
• Avocado, sliced
• 8 6-inch tortillas (corn or flour, your preference)
• Extra lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, lime zest, and lime juice. Add the shrimp to the marinade. Toss until evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
2. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and hot, add marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. In another mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage with chopped cilantro. Add Greek yogurt and lime juice to the mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Layer each tortilla with cooked shrimp followed by creamy slaw. Top with sliced avocado and extra cilantro if desired.
5. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over your tacos!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 taco (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 120mg