Name: Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Lime zest (from 1 lime); Juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon honey; 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish); 3 cups finely shredded green cabbage; ½ cup Greek yogurt; 8 tortillas (flour or corn); Avocado, sliced (for topping)

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw bring together the fresh, zesty flavors of lime and cilantro with tender shrimp and a creamy, crunchy slaw. These tacos are easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. Each bite is a delightful mix of vibrant flavors and textures, making them a family favorite in no time!

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are bursting with fresh, zesty flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The shrimp are marinated in a tangy lime-cilantro mix, giving them an irresistible flavor, while the creamy slaw adds a satisfying crunch and a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp. The avocado slices enhance the tacos further, adding a creamy richness that balances out the tanginess. These tacos are quick to make, making them a go-to for dinner parties, taco nights, or anytime you’re craving a light, flavorful meal. They’re also a great way to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed dish!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
Lime zest (from 1 lime)
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon honey
3 tablespoons chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
3 cups finely shredded green cabbage
½ cup Greek yogurt
8 tortillas
Avocado, sliced (for topping)

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine salt, smoked paprika, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and chopped cilantro. Mix well.
Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Make the Slaw:
In another bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice. Stir to combine until the slaw is creamy and evenly mixed.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little butter or oil. Cook the marinated shrimp for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp is cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos:
Place a couple of spoonfuls of the creamy slaw onto each tortilla. Top with 3-4 shrimp, then add sliced avocado on top.
Serve:
Garnish with additional cilantro and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 (8 tacos total)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the slaw and avocado should be consumed fresh, as they can lose their texture and flavor when stored.
Reheating:
To reheat the shrimp, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through. The tortillas can also be reheated in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.

2. Can I make these tacos with chicken instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can swap the shrimp for grilled or sautéed chicken breast or thigh pieces.

3. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the slaw?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a similar creamy texture.

4. Can I use store-bought coleslaw mix?

Yes, you can use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience, but be sure to add the cilantro and lime juice to make it more flavorful.

5. Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

6. What kind of tortillas are best for this recipe?

Flour tortillas are commonly used, but corn tortillas work well too, especially if you prefer a gluten-free option.

7. Can I add other toppings to these tacos?

Feel free to add other toppings like salsa, pickled onions, or jalapeño slices for extra flavor and heat.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even fresh chopped jalapeños to the marinade or as a topping for added heat.

9. What side dishes go well with these shrimp tacos?

These tacos pair wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

10. Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the shrimp in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before cooking.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are a fresh, flavorful dish that combines the zesty tang of lime and cilantro with the savory richness of shrimp, all wrapped up in soft tortillas. This recipe is quick, customizable, and perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to impressing guests at a party. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp or just love vibrant, easy-to-make tacos, these will quickly become a new favorite in your rotation. Enjoy these tacos with your choice of sides and toppings for a delicious meal that everyone will love!