These zesty cilantro lime shrimp tacos are bursting with flavor! The shrimp are cooked bright with lime juice and fresh cilantro, wrapped in warm tortillas, and topped with a creamy slaw.
Every bite feels like a fiesta in your mouth! I love how quick they are to make, perfect for busy nights when I want something tasty without the fuss. Just try them, and you’ll be hooked!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, consider using wild-caught shrimp instead of farmed. You can also swap shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
Lime Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must for brightness in flavor. If limes aren’t on hand, lemon juice works as a substitute, though it will have a slightly different taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a lot of flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can be used instead. They won’t replicate the flavor completely, but they will still brighten the dish.
Cabbage: Green cabbage provides crunch and a nice base for the slaw. If you want a sweeter slaw, try red cabbage or even a coleslaw mix. Spinach can also be a fun twist if you want to add greens.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter slaw, Greek yogurt makes a great alternative. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use plant-based mayo or yogurt.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky if you’re not familiar with it, but it’s quite simple! The key is to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can turn rubbery easily. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with marinated shrimp to infuse flavor. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, but don’t exceed 30 minutes.
- Heat your pan until it’s hot before adding the shrimp. A medium-high heat allows for nice searing.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Leave them undisturbed for the first couple of minutes.
- Look for an opaque color; they’ll change from a translucent blue-gray to a pinkish-white when done. This takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Creamy Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Assembly:
- 8 corn tortillas
- Avocado slices (optional)
- Extra lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes to cook the shrimp and warm the tortillas. So, in total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to get everything ready. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Once all the ingredients are well combined, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated in the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to really soak up those zesty flavors.
2. Prepare the Creamy Slaw:
While the shrimp is marinating, let’s make the creamy slaw! In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Add in the chopped cilantro and stir everything together until it’s well combined. Set this aside for later; it will be a perfect topping for the tacos!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, heat a grill pan or a skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches). Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the heat and set aside.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
Time to warm up those corn tortillas! Place them on the grill pan or in a separate skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re warm and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and adds a nice flavor.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
To assemble your tacos, take a warm tortilla, place a few pieces of the cooked shrimp in the middle, and top with the creamy slaw. If you like, you can add avocado slices for some extra creaminess.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for a little extra zing. Squeeze fresh lime over the tacos just before eating. Enjoy your delicious zesty cilantro lime shrimp tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the marinade.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in the Slaw?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative, or sour cream for added tanginess. If you prefer a vegan option, try using a plant-based mayonnaise or avocado cream. Just remember that different substitutes may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust seasoning to taste.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp will last for up to 2 days, while the slaw can be kept for up to 3 days. When reassembling tacos, warm the shrimp gently and add fresh slaw just before serving for the best texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Creamy Slaw?
Definitely! Feel free to include shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or even some red cabbage for added color and crunch. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantities if you’re adding significantly more veggies!
