These zesty tacos pack a punch with fresh shrimp, bright cilantro, and tangy lime! Topped with delicious creamy slaw, they’re a tasty treat for any meal.
I love how quick they are to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights! Plus, the flavors are so refreshing, you might just feel like you’re on a beach vacation. 🌮☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here, adding a juicy texture. If you prefer another protein, try chicken or tofu. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice adds a bright flavor. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice works as a substitute, but the taste may change slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley for a milder taste, or omit it altogether!
Cabbage: Green cabbage brings crunch to the slaw. You can swap it for red cabbage or even coleslaw mix if you’re in a pinch.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise makes the slaw creamy, but you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative or a vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Marinate Shrimp for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating shrimp properly can make a big difference in taste. It’s all about combining the right ingredients and giving it enough time to soak up those flavors!
- Mix olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes. This allows them to absorb the zesty marinade.
- Avoid marinating too long (more than 1 hour), as the acid in lime juice can start cooking shrimp, changing their texture.
Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Avocado slices (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15-30 minutes of prep time (including marinating the shrimp), plus around 10 minutes for cooking and assembling. So, you can have these tasty tacos ready to serve in just about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
Start by taking a medium-sized bowl. Combine the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper together. Mix everything well until blended. Now, add the shrimp and toss to make sure they are all coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes. This step helps to pack in all those zesty flavors!
2. Prepare the Creamy Slaw:
While the shrimp is marinating, you can work on the creamy slaw. In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Once that’s combined, add in the finely shredded cabbage and toss everything until well mixed. Set this aside to let the flavors come together.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Once the shrimp is marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat a grill pan or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove them from heat when done.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
Next, grab a dry skillet and warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them nice and pliable for filling!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a tortilla, place a few pieces of cooked shrimp on it, and top with the creamy slaw. If you like, add some avocado slices for an extra touch. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top!
6. Enjoy!
Your tasty tacos are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them right away and share with friends or family for a fun and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to run them under cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in the Slaw?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Alternatively, you can use avocado for a dairy-free option, blending it with a bit of lime juice for creaminess!
How to Store Leftover Tacos
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp, slaw, and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp can last for 2-3 days, while the slaw is best enjoyed fresh within about 1-2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently before assembling your tacos again.
What Can I Add to Enhance the Flavor?
Consider adding some heat with diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the slaw or on top of the tacos. Fresh lime juice can also elevate the flavor, so don’t hesitate to squeeze some more over your assembled tacos before enjoying!
