There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a fresh, flavorful shrimp taco. Juicy shrimp marinated with lime, garlic, and spices, nestled in warm tortillas, and topped with a crisp cilantro lime slaw — it’s a flavor explosion that combines the best of land and sea. These Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and creamy textures that make them a crowd favorite.
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend get-together, or a summer cookout, these tacos always impress. The fresh lime zest and the bright crunch of slaw add a refreshing contrast to the savory shrimp, making this dish both light and satisfying.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, vibrant, and incredibly versatile. The shrimp cook in just minutes, yet they deliver restaurant-quality flavor. The cilantro lime slaw adds a cool, creamy crunch that balances the spiced shrimp beautifully. Plus, it’s healthy and customizable — you can make it spicy, mild, or add your favorite toppings.
Most of all, it brings together friends and family over something fun and delicious — everyone loves assembling their own tacos!
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Bursting with flavor: The shrimp are marinated in lime, chili, and garlic for a perfect zesty kick.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Fresh and healthy: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies.
- Customizable: Works with grilled, sautéed, or baked shrimp — or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Perfectly balanced: Tangy slaw, spicy shrimp, creamy sauce, and soft tortillas create harmony in every bite.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings (makes about 8 tacos)
- Calories: Approximately 300–350 kcal per taco (depending on toppings)
Cuisine
Mexican-American Fusion
Course
Main Course / Dinner
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Zest of ½ lime
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple, or a mix)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Simple Cooking Directions
- Marinate the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices.
- Make the cilantro lime slaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
- Cook the shrimp in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
- Warm the tortillas, then assemble with slaw, shrimp, and toppings.
- Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, zest, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
- Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Cilantro Lime Slaw
- In another bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped cilantro.
- Toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator while you cook the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side until soft and slightly charred.
- Keep them warm in a clean kitchen towel.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Place a small handful of cilantro lime slaw in the center of each tortilla.
- Add 3–4 cooked shrimp on top.
- Garnish with avocado slices, jalapeño, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
- Serve immediately!
How to Serve
Serve shrimp tacos warm with extra lime wedges on the side. They pair beautifully with:
- Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
- Black beans or refried beans
- A chilled margarita, limeade, or sparkling water with lime
Additional Recipe Tips
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or thawed raw shrimp gives the best texture.
- Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook quickly — once they’re pink and opaque, remove them immediately.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead to save time.
- Spice it up: Add chipotle or sriracha to the slaw dressing for an extra kick.
- Taco shells: You can also use crispy taco shells or lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Variations
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Grill the shrimp on skewers for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Mango Salsa Version: Add mango salsa instead of slaw for a tropical twist.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos: Use butter and garlic instead of olive oil and spices for a rich flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu, cauliflower, or chickpeas.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store cooked shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers.
- Shrimp: up to 3 days
- Slaw: up to 2 days
- Freezer: You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently in a skillet; do not freeze slaw as it will lose texture.
Special Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Conclusion
These Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are the perfect mix of freshness, spice, and crunch. They’re light yet satisfying, elegant enough for entertaining but easy enough for a weekday dinner. Every bite bursts with zesty lime, creamy slaw, and perfectly seasoned shrimp — a true coastal delight!
Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Description
There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a fresh, flavorful shrimp taco. Juicy shrimp marinated with lime, garlic, and spices, nestled in warm tortillas, and topped with a crisp cilantro lime slaw — it’s a flavor explosion that combines the best of land and sea. These Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and creamy textures that make them a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
For the Tacos:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade : In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, zest, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
-
Step 2: Make the Cilantro Lime Slaw : In another bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped cilantro. Toss until everything is well coated. Chill in the refrigerator while you cook the shrimp.
-
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp : Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas : Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side until soft and slightly charred. Keep them warm in a clean kitchen towel.
-
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos : Place a small handful of cilantro lime slaw in the center of each tortilla. Add 3–4 cooked shrimp on top. Garnish with avocado slices, jalapeño, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Serve immediately!
