Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 small green cabbage, shredded; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; Lime wedges, for serving

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Bold and flavorful shrimp tacos topped with zesty cilantro lime slaw, delivering a spicy, tangy, and refreshing experience in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These spicy shrimp tacos are a quick and delicious option for lunch or dinner. The shrimp are seasoned and cooked to perfection, while the slaw offers a crisp and tangy contrast. With layers of flavor and texture, these tacos are ideal for casual gatherings or a satisfying weekday meal. They’re light, vibrant, and easy to customize.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the shrimp:

Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Olive oil
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Cumin
Salt and pepper
Lime juice

For the cilantro lime slaw:

Shredded cabbage (green, red, or a mix)
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime juice
Olive oil or Greek yogurt (for creaminess, optional)
Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Salt and pepper

For serving:

Corn or flour tortillas
Sliced avocado (optional)
Fresh lime wedges
Hot sauce (optional)

directions

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil (or yogurt), and seasonings. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
Assemble tacos by placing slaw on each tortilla, followed by cooked shrimp, avocado slices, and additional toppings if desired.
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 (makes about 8 tacos)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Swap shrimp for grilled fish, tofu, or shredded chicken.
Add mango or pineapple to the slaw for a tropical touch.
Use chipotle mayo or avocado crema as a sauce.
Make it dairy-free by omitting yogurt or using a dairy-free alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Do not freeze, as the texture of both shrimp and slaw may suffer.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them fully before marinating and cooking.

2. What type of tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas offer traditional flavor and texture, but flour tortillas are also suitable.

3. Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. Skewer the shrimp and grill them over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

4. How spicy are these tacos?

They have a mild to moderate heat. Adjust chili powder or add hot sauce to increase spice.

5. Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, the slaw can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

6. What’s a good side dish for shrimp tacos?

Try rice, black beans, grilled corn, or chips with guacamole or salsa.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas and confirm seasoning ingredients to ensure compliance.

8. Can I bake the shrimp instead?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until cooked through.

9. How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

They will turn pink and opaque, and curl into a “C” shape when done.

10. What toppings go well with shrimp tacos?

Avocado, pickled onions, jalapeños, cotija cheese, and lime juice all pair nicely.

Conclusion

Spicy shrimp tacos with cilantro lime slaw are a fast, flavorful, and refreshing option that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen. Whether for taco night or a casual get-together, these tacos are sure to impress with their bold taste and easy preparation.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

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These spicy shrimp tacos are packed with bold flavors and topped with a fresh cilantro lime slaw, making them the perfect combination of heat and zest in a handheld meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Low Lactose

Instructions

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.
In another bowl, mix shredded cabbage, cilantro, mayonnaise (or yogurt), lime juice, honey, and garlic powder. Chill until ready to use.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp into tortillas, topping with cilantro lime slaw.
Serve with extra lime wedges.