Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Sweet and tangy Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. These tacos bring together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients wrapped in warm tortillas for a delightful meal. The combination of juicy shrimp, creamy slaw, and buttery avocado makes every bite irresistible!

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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:
• How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients
• Step 4: Make the Slaw
• Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
• How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Taco Bar Extravaganza
• Pairing with Beverages
• Garnish Ideas
• 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
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?
• Can I use frozen shrimp?
• What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the slaw?
• How long do Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos keep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 28 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Flavors: The cilantro and lime create a refreshing taste that brightens the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course or served at gatherings and parties.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from fresh vegetables.
• Easy to Customize: Swap out ingredients or adjust spice levels according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up these delicious tacos, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp, allowing them to caramelize beautifully.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for preparing the creamy slaw, providing ample space for mixing ingredients thoroughly.

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

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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. 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; work in batches if necessary. Cook for 90 seconds per side until shrimp are opaque and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients

Reduce heat to low and add butter, lime zest, lime juice, and honey. Toss to coat shrimp in the sauce and 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. The slaw should be lightly dressed for a creamy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Warm tortillas in the microwave or over a gas stovetop flame for slight char. Place a scoop of creamy slaw in each tortilla. Add 4-6 shrimp 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 cilantro lime shrimp tacos is all about enhancing their fresh and vibrant flavors. These tacos are perfect for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, delighting guests with their colorful presentation and delicious taste.

Taco Bar Extravaganza

• DIY Toppings: Set up a taco bar with various toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded cheese to let everyone customize their tacos to their liking.
• Fresh Herbs: Offer additional chopped cilantro and green onions for a burst of freshness that complements the shrimp.

Pairing with Beverages

• Refreshing Drinks: Serve these tacos with light beverages such as limeade or a crisp white wine to balance the flavors.
• Craft Beer: A light lager or pale ale pairs well with the spices in the shrimp.

Garnish Ideas

• Lime Wedges: Provide extra lime wedges for guests who enjoy an extra citrusy kick.
• Sour Cream: A small dollop of sour cream can add creaminess that complements the slaw.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

To achieve the best cilantro lime shrimp tacos, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish to new heights.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure your shrimp are well-seasoned before cooking to enhance their natural flavors.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until they are opaque; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice and herbs for a brighter, more vibrant taste in both the shrimp and slaw.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your tortillas before assembling the tacos to make them more pliable and enjoyable.
• Layer Wisely: Start with slaw at the bottom, then add shrimp, followed by avocado slices for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Presentation Counts: Arrange tacos on a platter and garnish with additional cilantro for an appealing look.

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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 delightful options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice adds a sweet and spicy element.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro provides added protein and fiber.
3. Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips offers a satisfying crunch alongside your tacos.
4. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa of tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro adds zesty flavor without overwhelming the main dish.
5. Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the spiciness of the tacos beautifully.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad drizzled with lime juice makes for a refreshing counterpart to the rich creamy slaw.

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 to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the shrimp can lead to bland flavors. Always let the shrimp soak in the lime juice and spices for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once will steam them instead of searing. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Neglecting the slaw: A poorly mixed slaw can result in uneven flavor. Be sure to toss all ingredients thoroughly for a balanced taste.
• Using stale tortillas: Old tortillas can ruin your taco experience. Always use fresh tortillas, warming them just before serving.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping lime wedges or extra cilantro can make your dish less appealing. Always add fresh toppings for enhanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Freeze shrimp separately from slaw and tortillas.
• Use freezer-safe bags, keeping air out; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat tacos for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat tacos on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?

To make these delicious tacos, prepare the shrimp with spices, cook them quickly, then mix up a creamy slaw. Assemble everything in warmed tortillas and enjoy!

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the slaw?

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

How long do Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos keep?

These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Final Thoughts

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are not only vibrant but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding different toppings or adjusting spice levels. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!