These spicy shrimp tacos are a great way to spice up your meal! They’re filled with tasty shrimp, topped with a creamy sriracha sauce, and balanced with fresh cilantro lime slaw.
You might find yourself having a little taco dance party while you eat! I love how easy these are to make, and they’re perfect for a quick dinner with friends or family. 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh is best! If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp works fine too. Just make sure to thaw them properly first. If you’re allergic or prefer a different protein, try chicken, tofu, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor but you can use other oils like coconut oil for a different taste. For a healthier choice, avocado oil is also a good alternative.
Cayenne Pepper: Spice it up or tone it down! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you prefer less spice, try paprika or even a pinch of chili powder as a milder substitute.
Mayonnaise: For a healthier option, swap regular mayo with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs. This still gives that creamy texture without compromising taste.
Coleslaw Mix: You can create your own mix using shredded cabbage and carrots. If you want to add some crunch, try adding in thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes.
How Can I Cook Perfectly Tender Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp properly is key to keeping them juicy and tender. Be careful not to overcook! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Marinate the shrimp for 15-20 minutes for flavor.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the shrimp for an even cook.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked to avoid them getting rubbery.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Sriracha Sauce And Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt to taste
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Lime wedges for serving
- Extra cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll have delicious spicy shrimp tacos ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the shrimp and toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for 15-20 minutes while you get the other ingredients ready.
2. Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, honey (if you want a touch of sweetness), and a pinch of salt. Once mixed, set this aside to use later.
3. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
In another mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with the chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the slaw is well mixed and coated in the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to cook the shrimp! Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know the shrimp are done when they’re pink and opaque with a little char on the outside.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave. Take a tortilla, add a generous amount of the cooked shrimp, then top with the cilantro lime slaw. Drizzle the creamy Sriracha sauce over the top.
6. Serve:
Garnish with extra cilantro if you like. Serve these tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. To thaw quickly, place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade and start with just 1 tablespoon of Sriracha in the sauce. You can always taste and add more to reach your desired heat level. Remember, it’s easier to add more heat than to tone it down!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat the shrimp, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Assemble your tacos fresh for the best texture!
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cilantro lime slaw up to a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
