Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Sweet and tangy Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are the perfect dish for any occasion. With their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, these tacos bring a delightful twist to your usual dinner routine. They are easy to prepare and can impress guests at a gathering or provide a quick weeknight meal for your family. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy slaw, and buttery avocado creates an irresistible flavor profile you won’t want to miss.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 28 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The zesty lime and cilantro elevate the shrimp, making each bite a delicious experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos as a light lunch or serve them at parties—perfect for any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, these tacos offer a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delightful tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp while preventing sticking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients for the creamy slaw effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the avocado and chopping cilantro safe and efficient.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and half of the chopped cilantro.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the marinade. Toss until well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Melt butter in the skillet.
3. Add marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
4. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Slaw

1. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded green cabbage, Greek yogurt, remaining lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
2. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

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

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for added zing.
2. Enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a delicious and vibrant meal perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Pair with Fresh Lime Wedges

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

Add Extra Cilantro

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor and freshness.

Serve with Avocado Slices

• Place creamy avocado slices inside or alongside the tacos for a rich texture that complements the shrimp.

Offer Hot Sauce

• Provide a selection of hot sauces so guests can customize their spice level, enhancing their taco experience.

Accompany with Tortilla Chips

• Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side with salsa or guacamole for a crunchy contrast to the soft tacos.

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How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Creating the perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time.

• Marinate the shrimp – Letting the shrimp sit in lime juice and spices for 15 minutes enhances flavor absorption.

• Use wild-caught shrimp – For a fresher taste, opt for wild-caught instead of farmed shrimp whenever possible.

• Warm the tortillas – Gently heating tortillas in a skillet or microwave makes them more pliable and flavorful.

• Adjust slaw thickness – Aim for finely shredded cabbage; it holds up better in tacos and balances textures.

• Experiment with toppings – Try adding diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or feta cheese for different flavor profiles.

• Serve immediately – Enjoy these tacos fresh off the stove for optimal flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

To complement your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, consider these delightful side dishes. They add variety and enhance your overall meal experience.

1. Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime offers a sweet and spicy addition.

2. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, peppers, and cilantro provides fiber and protein to balance the meal.

3. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly with tacos; it’s easy to make fresh by mashing ripe avocados and adding lime juice, garlic, and salt.

4. Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds brightness to your plate.

5. Spanish Rice – Flavorful rice cooked in tomato sauce and spices serves as a hearty side that complements the shrimp.

6. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make for an irresistible appetizer or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to enhance your taco-making experience.

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can lead to bland tacos. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using stale or wilted produce can ruin the dish. Always use fresh cilantro, lime, and cabbage for a vibrant taste.
• Using the wrong tortillas: Choosing low-quality tortillas can affect texture and flavor. Opt for corn or flour tortillas that are fresh and pliable.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tastes vary, so don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your preference. Taste as you go!
• Forgetting toppings: Skipping toppings like avocado or extra lime can limit flavor depth. Don’t miss out on adding these delicious extras!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped tacos for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30-45 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add tacos, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, here are some common questions answered.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just ensure they’re thawed before marinating and cooking.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or any dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar creamy texture.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spice level is mild due to the chili powder. Adjust it by adding more or using a hotter chili powder if you prefer more heat.

Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the creamy slaw up to a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings, like jalapeños or different herbs. They’re perfect for any taco night or casual gathering. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

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• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a burst of freshness to your dinner table. This quick recipe combines succulent wild-caught shrimp marinated in zesty lime and spices, topped with a creamy slaw made from crunchy cabbage and Greek yogurt. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos deliver an irresistible flavor profile without compromising on nutrition. Enjoy them alongside sliced avocado and fresh lime wedges for an added zing!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 tablespoon lime zest (from 1 lime)
• 4 tablespoons lime juice (from 2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• Avocado, sliced
• 8 (6-inch) tortillas

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and half of the chopped cilantro.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit for about 10 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter. Cook marinated shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cabbage with Greek yogurt, remaining lime juice, and chopped cilantro to create the slaw.
5. Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp on each tortilla and topping with creamy slaw and sliced avocado.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 175mg