Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. These tacos make an excellent choice for casual weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With fresh shrimp, buttery avocado, and a creamy slaw, each bite is a delightful experience.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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 Serving
• How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw
• Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Taco Bar Setup
• Avocado Slices
• Extra Lime Wedges
• Hot Sauce Selection
• Tortilla Options
• Refreshing Beverages
• 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
• Can I use frozen shrimp?
• What toppings work well with these tacos?
• How do I customize my creamy slaw?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 28 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cilantro, lime, and spices creates a vibrant taste that will excite your palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos for lunch, dinner, or even as party appetizers.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from cabbage and avocado, these tacos are a nutritious option.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or swapping out ingredients like tortillas to fit dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the shrimp and helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing the creamy slaw and shrimp marinade.

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

For the Slaw

• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• 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

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, and honey.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade. Toss gently until well 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 hot, add the marinated shrimp.
3. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw

In another bowl:
1. Mix together shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice.
2. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
2. Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla.
3. Top with creamy slaw and sliced avocado.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with extra lime wedges on the side for added flavor. Enjoy your 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 fresh flavors and creating a memorable experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will take your taco night to the next level.

Taco Bar Setup

• Create a taco bar with all the fixings laid out, allowing guests to assemble their own tacos with ease. Include extra toppings like diced tomatoes and jalapeños.

Avocado Slices

• Serve buttery avocado slices alongside the tacos for added creaminess. The richness of avocado perfectly complements the tangy shrimp.

Extra Lime Wedges

• Provide extra lime wedges on the side for those who love an extra burst of citrus flavor. A squeeze of lime elevates every bite.

Hot Sauce Selection

• Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who enjoy a spicy kick. This allows everyone to customize their tacos according to their heat preference.

Tortilla Options

• Use a mix of corn and flour tortillas to cater to different tastes. Some may prefer the traditional corn flavor, while others enjoy the softness of flour.

Refreshing Beverages

• Pair these tacos with refreshing drinks like lemonade or a light beer. A cold beverage balances the flavors beautifully and enhances the meal experience.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

To make your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw even more delicious, consider these tips for perfection.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and vibrant vegetables for the best flavor and texture in your tacos.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This helps infuse them with cilantro and lime flavors.
• Tortilla Warmth: Warm your tortillas on a skillet or grill before filling them. This adds a nice softness that makes them easier to fold.
• Creamy Slaw Balance: Adjust the sweetness and acidity of your slaw by tweaking honey and lime juice to suit your taste.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your tacos right after assembling them for maximum freshness. The longer they sit, the less crisp they become.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t hold back on garnishing with extra cilantro; it adds color and enhances taste.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Pairing side dishes with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad made with grilled corn, lime juice, cotija cheese, and cilantro. It adds sweetness and crunch.
2. Black Bean Salsa: A zesty mix of black beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, cilantro, and lime juice that brings a burst of flavor.
3. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served alongside creamy guacamole make for an irresistible snack before digging into your tacos.
4. Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime pairs wonderfully as a base or side dish alongside your shrimp tacos.
5. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and freshness.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender are a healthy choice that complements the flavors in your tacos well.
7. Spicy Queso Dip: A warm cheese dip spiced up with jalapeños provides great richness when served as an appetizer.
8. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango mixed with red onion and jalapeños creates a vibrant contrast that pairs beautifully with shrimp tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the shrimp can lead to bland tacos. Take the time to let the shrimp soak in lime juice and spices for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old veggies can ruin your slaw. Always choose fresh cilantro and cabbage for a crunchy texture and vibrant taste.

• Neglecting Tortilla Quality: Low-quality tortillas can tear easily. Opt for freshly made corn or flour tortillas to hold all those delicious fillings together.

• Forgetting Extra Lime Juice: Skipping lime wedges on the side means missing out on that zesty kick. Always serve with extra lime for squeezing over the tacos!

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat tacos for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

What toppings work well with these tacos?

Feel free to add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.

How do I customize my creamy slaw?

You can swap Greek yogurt with sour cream or add diced apples or carrots for a unique twist on the slaw.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The components of these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw store well separately, making it easy to assemble fresh tacos throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are not only packed with flavor but also offer versatility. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taco night that’s sure to impress!