These Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are bursting with flavor! Fresh shrimp get a lively lime and cilantro twist, all wrapped up in soft tortillas. The creamy slaw adds the perfect crunch!
Who doesn’t love a good taco night? I always make extra just in case—I can’t resist having a few more! 🌮 Pair these with your favorite salsa and enjoy the fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can try chicken breast or firm tofu for a different protein option.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is essential for the zesty flavor of this dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can work as milder substitutes, but the flavor will change a bit.
Limes: Fresh limes provide the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice can be used, but fresh is always better. Meyer lemons can also give a lovely twist!
Cabbage: Green cabbage gives the slaw crunch. If you want something sweeter, red cabbage is a great option. You can also use coleslaw mix for convenience.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you need a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
How Do I Perfectly Cook Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right! Shrimp is really quick to cook, so keep an eye on them.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil.
- Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to steam instead of sear.
- If they’re curled tightly, they might be overcooked. Aim for a slight curl with firmness.
Enjoying tacos is all about layering flavors, so remember to assemble them right away for the freshest taste!
Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
For the Creamy Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe for Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos will take about 15-30 minutes for marinating the shrimp, plus another 10-15 minutes for cooking and assembling. So, in total, you can whip up these tasty tacos in about 30-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with the chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well coated. Let this marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to let the flavors infuse into the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Creamy Slaw:
While the shrimp is marinating, let’s whip up the creamy slaw. In a large bowl, mix together the finely shredded cabbage, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. If you like a little extra crunch, feel free to add some thinly sliced red onion. Mix everything well and set it aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and then cook the marinated shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them to turn pink and opaque, which means they’re perfectly cooked!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp is cooking, warm the corn tortillas. You can do this in a skillet over low heat or quickly in the microwave until they are pliable. This will make them easier to fold and hold all the delicious fillings.
5. Assemble Your Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! On each tortilla, place a few slices of avocado, top it with some shrimp, and then add a generous scoop of the creamy slaw on top. Each bite will be bursting with flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if you wish. Dive into these zesty shrimp tacos and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to properly thaw the shrimp first. Thaw frozen shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or let them sit in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they marinate well and cook evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream in the Slaw?
If you want a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works perfectly as a substitute for sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or a dressing that has a similar creamy consistency.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp, slaw, and tortillas separate in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp can stay fresh for up to 2 days, while the slaw is best consumed within 1 day for peak freshness. Rewarm the shrimp gently on the stovetop before reassembling the tacos as the tortillas may become tough if reheated.
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the creamy slaw ahead of time! Prepare it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This not only saves prep time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before serving to freshen it up!
