Get ready for a flavor fiesta with these spicy shrimp tacos! They’re loaded with juicy shrimp, and topped with a creamy Sriracha sauce that’ll give your taste buds a kick! 🌶️
The fresh cilantro lime slaw adds a zesty crunch that’s hard to resist. I could eat these tacos every taco Tuesday—who needs a fancy restaurant when you can whip these up at home?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for this recipe, but if you’re looking for a change, try using grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you want a lighter spice, consider using taco seasoning. You can also play with the heat level using cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
Cabbage: I use green cabbage for a great crunch, but if you prefer, red cabbage or a mix of both works just as well. For a twist, try adding some shredded carrots for extra color and sweetness.
Sour Cream: If you’re looking to lighten things up, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan sour cream or cashew cream instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easy! The goal is to cook them just until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before you add the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Cook them for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
- Remove them from the heat immediately to avoid overcooking. They’ll keep cooking from residual heat!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Sriracha Sauce And Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
For Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2-3 tbsp Sriracha (to taste)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes total, with 20 minutes for prep, including marinating the shrimp, and around 20 minutes for cooking and assembling the tacos. It’s quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly with the spices. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.
2. Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Sriracha, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more Sriracha to taste. Set this sauce aside for later.
3. Prepare the Slaw:
In another bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Toss everything well to combine and allow it to sit a bit, letting the flavors meld together while you cook the shrimp.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. They cook pretty quickly, so keep an eye on them!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or in the microwave. Take a few shrimp and place them in the middle of each tortilla. Top them with a generous helping of the cilantro lime slaw and drizzle with the creamy Sriracha sauce. Yum!
6. Serve:
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if you like. Enjoy your spicy shrimp tacos! They’re sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to do this is overnight in the fridge, or for a quicker option, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear when cooking.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds creaminess while providing additional protein. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based yogurt or mashed avocado for a unique flavor twist.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp, slaw, and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will last up to 2 days, while the slaw and sauce are best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The cilantro lime slaw can be made a few hours in advance. Just toss the cabbage, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice together, cover, and refrigerate. This will enhance the flavors and make assembling tacos quicker when you’re ready to eat!
