Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Sweet and tangy Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw bring a burst of flavor and color to your table. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or taco night celebrations, these shrimp tacos feature juicy shrimp, creamy slaw, and buttery avocado in warm tortillas. The drizzle of honey-lime sauce adds just the right amount of sweetness to make each bite unforgettable.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp:
• For the Slaw:
• For the Tacos:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Add Sauce to Shrimp
• Step 4: Make the Slaw
• Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
• How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Fresh Lime Wedges
• Pickled Red Onions
• Jalapeño Slices
• Fresh Cilantro Garnish
• Corn Salsa
• Hot Sauce Variety
• How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos unique?
• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
• How do I customize the creamy slaw?
• What sides pair well with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos?
• Can I make these tacos spicy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 28 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute guests.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of cilantro, lime, and spices creates a deliciously vibrant taste that will impress everyone.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to make it your own.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients like shrimp and cabbage, these tacos offer a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: These tacos are easy to prepare in batches and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Paper towels
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking shrimp evenly while providing enough space to avoid overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients for both the shrimp and slaw, ensuring even mixing.
• Paper towels: Helpful for drying shrimp before seasoning, which promotes better caramelization during cooking.

Ingredients

Sweet and tangy cilantro lime shrimp, buttery avocado, and a creamy slaw come together in a warm tortilla for the ultimate taco bliss! Drizzled with a flavorful honey-lime sauce, these shrimp tacos are fresh, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious.

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 the 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)
• Pinch of salt

For the Tacos:

• 8 small (6-inch) corn or flour tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Extra lime wedges, for serving

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Next, sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When the oil is hot, add shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding by working in batches if necessary. Cook for 90 seconds per side until they are opaque and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Add Sauce to Shrimp

Reduce heat to low and add butter, lime zest, lime juice, and honey. Toss to coat shrimp in the sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Make the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss until evenly coated; it should be lightly dressed for a creamy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Warm tortillas in the microwave or oven as preferred. Place a scoop of creamy slaw in each tortilla. Add 4-6 shrimp per taco and drizzle with honey-lime sauce. Top with avocado slices and an extra squeeze of lime. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Serving your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw is a delightful experience that brings together fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Here are some creative ways to enhance your taco presentation.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime over the tacos just before eating for an extra zing of flavor.

Pickled Red Onions

• Add pickled red onions for a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and slaw.

Jalapeño Slices

• For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapeños can bring a spicy kick to each bite.

Fresh Cilantro Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an additional pop of color and herbal freshness.

Corn Salsa

• Serve with a side of corn salsa to add sweetness and texture alongside your tacos.

Hot Sauce Variety

• Offer a few different hot sauces so guests can customize their spice level.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Perfecting your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw can elevate the dish to new heights. Here are some essential tips to consider.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp and vibrant produce for the best flavors.
• Marinate the Shrimp: Letting the shrimp sit in lime juice for 15 minutes before cooking enhances its flavor.
• Control the Heat: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding shrimp; this ensures a nice sear.
• Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or radishes for extra crunch.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Warming tortillas makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces or dressings if you want to switch up the flavor profile.

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Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Pairing sides with your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to complement your tacos.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad
   A zesty mix of corn, lime, and cotija cheese that adds a refreshing contrast.
2. Black Beans
   Simple seasoned black beans provide protein and balance out the meal.
3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly, enhancing the avocado flavors in the taco.
4. Spanish Rice
   Flavored rice adds a hearty element that complements the lightness of the tacos.
5. Chips with Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a great appetizer or snack.
6. Cucumber Salad
   A cool cucumber salad dressed in lime vinaigrette refreshes your palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Aim for 90 seconds per side until they’re just opaque.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can lead to bland tacos. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavors.
• Using Stale Tortillas: Stale tortillas can ruin your tacos. Always use fresh tortillas, and warm them right before serving.
• Ignoring the Slaw Balance: An uneven slaw can overshadow the shrimp. Make sure to balance yogurt and lime juice for a perfect creamy texture.
• Forgetting Toppings: Skipping toppings like avocado or extra lime can detract from flavor. Always add these for a complete dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Place shrimp and slaw in separate freezer-safe containers.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Quickly reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos unique?

These tacos stand out due to their vibrant cilantro lime flavor combined with a creamy slaw, offering a refreshing taste that enhances the shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even seasoning and cooking.

How do I customize the creamy slaw?

You can customize the creamy slaw by adding ingredients like diced jalapeños or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor.

What sides pair well with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos?

Consider serving these tacos with Mexican rice, black beans, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Can I make these tacos spicy?

Absolutely! Add diced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture before cooking for an added kick.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels. Try making these tacos today; they’re sure to become a family favorite!

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