Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Sweet and tangy cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these vibrant tacos deliver flavor and freshness in every bite. With buttery avocado and a drizzle of honey-lime sauce, this recipe shines as a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: The combination of cilantro, lime, and shrimp creates a refreshing taste that brightens your meal.
- Quick Preparation: You can whip these tacos up in just 28 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even meal prep; they suit various occasions effortlessly.
- Creamy Slaw Delight: The creamy slaw adds a crunchy texture and balances the shrimp’s flavors beautifully.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings to make each taco unique!
Tools and Preparation
To make the process smooth and enjoyable, gather a few essential tools. These will help you create the best cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet is crucial for evenly cooking the shrimp to achieve that perfect texture.
- Mixing Bowl: It allows you to combine the ingredients for the slaw without making a mess.
- Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your tacos.
Ingredients
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
How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Toss to coat evenly.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When hot, add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 90 seconds on each side until they are opaque and slightly caramelized.
Reduce heat to low. Add butter, lime zest, lime juice, and honey to the skillet. Toss to coat shrimp in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro.
Step 2: Make the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss until everything is evenly coated to achieve a lightly dressed slaw with a creamy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
Warm tortillas in the microwave or oven until soft. Place a scoop of creamy slaw in each tortilla. Add 4-6 shrimp per taco and drizzle with honey-lime sauce.
Top with sliced avocado and an extra squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious cilantro lime shrimp tacos!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are not just a meal; they are an experience. These tacos can be served in various ways to enhance their vibrant flavors and textures.
Fresh Lime Wedges
- Serve with extra lime wedges for a zesty kick that brightens each bite.
Avocado Slices
- Add slices of fresh avocado on top for a buttery texture that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Hot Sauce
- Offer your favorite hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra spicy flavor.
Pickled Red Onions
- These tangy onions add a crunch and a pop of color, making the tacos visually appealing.
Fresh Cilantro
- Garnish with additional chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and aroma.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that balances the spices in the shrimp.
How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Perfecting your cilantro lime shrimp tacos is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your taco game:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and vibrant vegetables make all the difference in flavor.
- Marinate the shrimp: Allowing the shrimp to marinate briefly in lime juice enhances their flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook until just opaque; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
- Warm your tortillas: Warm tortillas before filling them to keep them soft and pliable.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like mango salsa or jalapeños for unique flavor profiles.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy these tacos right after assembling for optimal freshness and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Pairing side dishes with cilantro lime shrimp tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Grilled corn on the cob coated with mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder adds a sweet and savory contrast. - Black Beans
A simple side of seasoned black beans provides protein and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the tacos. - Spanish Rice
Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the shrimp while adding substance to your meal. - Guacamole
Creamy guacamole not only tastes great but also adds healthy fats that work well with the dish’s flavors. - Chips and Salsa
Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a satisfying crunch before or alongside your tacos. - Cilantro Lime Quinoa
This light quinoa dish mirrors the taco’s flavors, making it a perfect companion for those who love grains. - Roasted Vegetables
Lightly seasoned roasted veggies add color, nutrition, and a delightful charred flavor to balance the meal. - Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich, flavorful tacos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the marination: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance taste.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough and rubbery. Cook just until they turn opaque, about 90 seconds per side.
- Not draining the slaw: Excess moisture in the slaw can make it soggy. After mixing, let it sit briefly to drain excess liquid before serving.
- Using stale tortillas: Old tortillas can break apart easily. Always use fresh tortillas and warm them before filling for better texture.
- Neglecting lime zest: Skipping lime zest reduces the vibrant flavor. Zest your limes before juicing them for an extra burst of freshness.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Keep shrimp and slaw separate until ready to eat to maintain texture.
Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Place shrimp and slaw in separate freezer-safe containers.
- They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat shrimp on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Quickly reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw them properly before cooking for even results.
What type of tortillas are best for these tacos?
Corn or flour tortillas can be used based on your preference. Corn offers a more traditional taste, while flour provides a softer texture.
Can I customize the slaw?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.
How spicy are these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?
The spice level is mild, but you can increase it by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if desired.
What drinks pair well with these tacos?
Light beers, margaritas, or fresh limeade complement these tacos nicely.
Final Thoughts
These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw offer a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. They are versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings or ingredients. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 tacos each) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw. These delightful tacos are bursting with fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. Tender shrimp are seasoned and cooked to perfection, then tossed in a honey-lime sauce that elevates every bite. The creamy slaw adds a crunchy texture that complements the shrimp beautifully, making these tacos an ideal choice for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. With just 28 minutes of prep time, you can treat your family and friends to a meal they’ll love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb wild-caught shrimp
- 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
- 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 whole lime)
- Pinch of salt
- 8 small (6-inch) corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Extra lime wedges, for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by patting them dry and seasoning with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 90 seconds on each side until opaque.
- Reduce heat and add butter, lime zest, lime juice, and honey to coat the shrimp in the sauce; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and salt. Toss until evenly coated.
- Warm the tortillas and assemble by placing slaw in each tortilla followed by shrimp and avocado slices. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
