Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a delightful twist on your typical taco night. These tacos combine sweet and tangy cilantro shrimp with buttery avocado and a creamy slaw, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect for casual dinners, taco parties, or any gathering, they offer a refreshing burst of flavor that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 28 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of cilantro, lime, and shrimp creates a vibrant taste that excites the palate.
- Versatile: Enjoy these tacos as a light lunch, dinner, or even at gatherings—everyone will enjoy them!
- Health-Conscious: Packed with protein and fiber, these tacos are a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like salsa or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Tools and Preparation
To make the perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp, giving them a nice sear while retaining moisture.
- Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients for the creamy slaw seamlessly without making a mess.
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 that same lime)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
For the Creamy Slaw
- 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 whole lime)
Additional Ingredients
- 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 Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro. Mix well to form a marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss until all shrimp are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the slaw.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw
In another mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until they are opaque and cooked through.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Warm your tortillas in another skillet or microwave until pliable. Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla followed by a generous scoop of creamy slaw. Top with sliced avocado.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over your tacos for added flavor. Enjoy your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your taco experience.
Fresh Lime Wedges
- Serve extra lime wedges alongside the tacos for an added burst of citrus flavor.
Sliced Avocado
- Add sliced avocado on top of the tacos for a creamy texture that complements the shrimp and slaw.
Pickled Red Onion
- Garnish your tacos with pickled red onion for a tangy crunch that enhances every bite.
Extra Cilantro
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the tacos to amplify the cilantro flavors in the dish.
Hot Sauce
- Provide a selection of hot sauces for those who like their tacos with a spicy kick.
Tortilla Chips
- Serve tortilla chips on the side, perfect for scooping up any extra slaw or sauce.
How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
To make your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw even more delicious, follow these tips for perfection.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp, lime, and herbs will elevate the flavor of your tacos.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque for a tender bite.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a skillet briefly to enhance their flavor and pliability.
- Mix slaw well: Ensure the creamy slaw is well mixed so every bite is flavorful and consistent.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Pairing side dishes with your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices:
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder offers a sweet and savory contrast.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado adds protein and color.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a hearty side that complements tacos beautifully.
- Guacamole: This creamy dip made from ripe avocados adds richness that pairs well with shrimp tacos.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa provides a zesty freshness that balances the flavors of your tacos.
- Chips and Salsa: Light tortilla chips served with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking before or alongside your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw can be simple, but small errors can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp well can lead to bland tacos. Use smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder for a flavor boost.
- Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking makes it rubbery. Cook until pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes.
- Ignoring slaw texture: A soggy slaw will ruin the crunch of the tacos. Mix the slaw ingredients just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Using stale tortillas: Old tortillas can break easily and lose flavor. Use fresh tortillas for the best taco experience.
- Neglecting lime juice: Forgetting to add lime juice can make your tacos taste flat. Always include fresh lime juice for that zesty kick.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to prepare shrimp for tacos?
The best way is to marinate them briefly in lime juice, olive oil, and spices before cooking. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
What toppings go well with these tacos?
Consider adding sliced avocado, fresh jalapeños, or additional cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
How do I customize the creamy slaw?
Feel free to add other ingredients like carrots or radishes for crunch, or swap Greek yogurt with sour cream based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at your table. They’re also quite versatile; feel free to customize toppings or adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of taco bliss!
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
Description
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a vibrant and delicious twist on your usual taco night. These tacos feature succulent shrimp marinated in zesty lime and cilantro, paired with a creamy slaw that brings a refreshing crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb wild-caught shrimp
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- Tortillas (corn or flour)
- Avocado slices
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, olive oil, lime juice, and honey. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix shredded cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice for the creamy slaw.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp and creamy slaw inside each tortilla topped with avocado slices.
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
