Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Sweet and tangy Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a delightful way to enjoy fresh flavors in every bite. Perfect for a quick dinner, casual gatherings, or taco night with friends, these tacos combine juicy shrimp with a zesty slaw and creamy sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas. The unique flavor profile and simple preparation make this dish stand out among other taco recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 8 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime, cilantro, and spices brings a refreshing zest that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a quick weeknight dinner or serve them at your next party—everyone will love them!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with shrimp and fresh veggies, these tacos are a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything is prepared efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for quickly cooking the shrimp to perfection while keeping them tender and juicy.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the slaw ingredients for a uniform flavor throughout.
• Whisk: Great for blending the creamy slaw dressing smoothly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Knife & Cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and herbs safely and efficiently.

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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

For the Creamy Slaw

• 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 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 whole lime)

For Assembly

• 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

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted.
3. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Slaw

1. In another mixing bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice from one lime, honey, chopped cilantro, shredded cabbage, and Greek yogurt until well combined.
2. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble Tacos

1. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
2. On each tortilla, add a generous spoonful of creamy slaw followed by three to four shrimp.
3. Top with sliced avocado and drizzle with extra lime juice if desired.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over tacos before enjoying!

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are sure to impress everyone at your table!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Cilantro lime shrimp tacos are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these tacos can be adapted to suit any occasion.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in warm tortillas for a comforting and traditional taco experience.

Build-Your-Own Taco Bar

• Set up a taco bar with toppings like avocado slices, extra cilantro, and lime wedges, allowing guests to customize their own tacos.

Pair with Fresh Salsa

• Accompany the tacos with fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños for a zesty kick.

Add Crunchy Chips

• Serve with tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch that complements the creamy slaw.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Perfecting your cilantro lime shrimp tacos is easy with a few simple tips. These suggestions will elevate your taco-making game.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and vibrant veggies enhance flavor and texture.
• Be Mindful of Cooking Time: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can make them tough.
• Mix Slaw Ahead of Time: Prepare the creamy slaw ahead of time to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
• Warm Tortillas: Heat tortillas slightly before serving; it makes them more pliable and enjoyable.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on your personal taste preferences for heat and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

To create a complete meal, consider pairing your cilantro lime shrimp tacos with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad featuring corn, cotija cheese, and lime dressing.
2. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad made with black beans, corn, diced peppers, and cilantro.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime and garlic, perfect for scooping with chips.
4. Cucumber Salsa: A light and crunchy salsa made from diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in broth with herbs that pairs well with the flavors of the tacos.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil make a colorful and healthy side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your shrimp properly can lead to bland tacos. Always use salt, pepper, and spices for that extra flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp become tough and chewy; aim for just 2-3 minutes per side.
• Using the wrong tortillas: The type of tortilla can change the taco experience. Choose corn or flour based on personal preference, but ensure they’re fresh and pliable.
• Not letting slaw chill: Allowing your creamy slaw to chill enhances its flavor. Make it ahead of time and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Neglecting garnishes: Toppings like avocado and lime wedges add freshness. Don’t skip these; they elevate your tacos significantly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Wrap tacos tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat tacos individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for best results.

What toppings work well with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?

You can add sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or additional cilantro for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make the creamy slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing the slaw a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I customize my Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or corn to enhance crunch and flavor!

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are both delicious and versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spices. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion—fresh, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table!

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

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• Author: Florence
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (2 tacos per serving) 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, a dish that brings freshness and zest to your table. These tacos combine succulent shrimp seasoned with spices, paired with a refreshing slaw made from crisp cabbage and a creamy dressing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gatherings, they are quick to prepare and utterly satisfying. With colorful toppings like sliced avocado and zesty lime, each bite is bursting with flavor. Enjoy the ease of customization as you add your favorite ingredients to create an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 8 tortillas (corn or flour)
• Avocado slices
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon lime zest (from 1 lime)
• Extra lime wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Season shrimp with salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder in a mixing bowl.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat; cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
3. In another bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice, honey, chopped cilantro, shredded cabbage, and Greek yogurt to make the slaw.
4. Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
5. Assemble by adding creamy slaw and shrimp on each tortilla; top with avocado slices and extra lime juice if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor; opt for ripe avocados and seasonal vegetables. Customize your tacos by adding toppings like salsa or jalapeños. Make the slaw ahead of time to enhance its flavor.