Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Perfect Cilantro Lime Slaw Combo

One summer evening, as you wander through a vibrant Mexican mercado, the rich aromas of cooking spices and fresh seafood captivate your senses. Among the myriad delights, one dish stands out: Spicy Shrimp Tacos. Offered by a local vendor, these tacos, with their cilantro lime slaw and the tantalizing heat from perfectly seasoned shrimp, promise a culinary experience that beckons for more. This encounter inspires the delicious recipe we share with you today.

This unique experience inspired the Spicy Shrimp Tacos recipe we’re sharing today. These tacos are more than food; they take you to a Mexican fiesta. This recipe makes about eight small tacos so everyone can enjoy them. You can make these flavorful tacos in under 30 minutes. They come with creamy lime sauce and Cotija cheese, perfect for taco night.

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Our Spicy Shrimp Tacos recipe brings the right mix of heat and tang. Juicy shrimp and fresh cilantro lime slaw are great for any event. Enjoy these tacos at a party or a simple dinner. They’re sure to be a hit.

Introduction to Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Spicy Shrimp Tacos, a blend of bold flavors and cool cilantro lime slaw, are perfect for a quick, tasty dinner. The best part? They can be made in just 15 minutes, making them a convenient and delicious choice for any occasion.

Each Shrimp Taco, with its 320 kcal, 29g of protein, and 14g of carbs, is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a healthy choice. The chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper not only add flavor but also bring their own health benefits to the table.

The Cilantro Lime Slaw adds crunch and freshness to the tacos. It makes them stand out.

For sturdy tacos that can hold all the delicious fillings, we recommend using double tortillas. This trick not only prevents the tortillas from getting soggy but also ensures that all the flavors and textures are well-contained. The recipe is easy and great for any home cook.

Prep and cook your tacos in 15 minutes total. Top them with avocado, cotija cheese, and lime. These toppings make the tacos even more delightful.

The author shares a fun memory of enjoying the tacos with a friend named Melanie. It shows how food brings people together.

Shrimp tacos are not just suitable for any event, from quiet dinners to big parties, but they also offer a canvas for your culinary creativity. Sharing your taco creations can inspire others to try making them, too, and the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients You Need

Certain key ingredients are needed to make Shrimp Tacos with a fun twist. Below, you’ll find what you need for the tacos and a tasty cilantro lime slaw.

Main Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Tacos

• 1 pound of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• One tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil
• One teaspoon of chili powder
• One teaspoon of ground chipotle chili pepper
• One teaspoon of ground cumin
• One clove of garlic, minced
• Eight small tortillas (corn or flour)
• Avocado slices for topping
• Crumbled Cotija cheese or Feta cheese for topping
• Fresh lime wedges for serving
• Fresh chopped cilantro for garnishing

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Slaw

• 2-3 cups of slaw mix or thinly sliced cabbage
• 1 cup of nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• Two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• One clove of garlic, finely minced
• ½ small jalapeno, seeded and minced
• ¼ cup of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Zest and juice from 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pineapple or mango chunks (optional for added sweetness)

Keeping these ingredients ready lets you whip up a tasty, nutritious meal at any time.

Why These Tacos Are a Must-Try

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are a delightful balance of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. They pair beautifully with sides like Mexican Rice in a Rice Cooker, which adds a traditional touch to your meal.

For another creative twist on tacos, try the savory Taco Stuffed Peppers, a satisfying dish that complements the zesty shrimp. And if you’re looking to expand your seafood options, these tacos work wonderfully alongside Shrimp Fried Rice, bringing variety to your table.

These versatile tacos are perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy them with the suggested sides for a memorable meal experience.

How to Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining one lb. of large raw shrimp. It’s easy with a basic kitchen tool or by hand. Once clean, get ready to season.

For the seasoning mix, combine the following spices:

1. Two teaspoons of chili powder
2. Two teaspoons of cumin
3. 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
4. 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
5. 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

Coat each shrimp well with the seasoning. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet on medium-high. Cook the shrimp until they’re pink and not see-through, about 2-3 minutes on each side. This is a great way to cook shrimp for tacos.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling the shrimp is a great alternative. Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. This method adds a nice char and enhances the overall flavor of the tacos.

For something different, try beer-battered shrimp. Dip the shrimp in beer batter and fry them until golden. This method gives the shrimp a unique crunch.

After cooking, squeeze lime juice over the shrimp. The spice and lime create a tasty mix.

To make the Best Shrimp Taco Sauce, mix:

• 1/3 cup of Duke’s Mayonnaise
• Two tablespoons of hot sauce
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

This sauce amplifies the shrimp’s taste and adds a creamy, tangy touch to the spice.

The Perfect Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

A refreshing and tangy cilantro lime slaw is key to spicy shrimp tacos. It’s a mix of fresh veggies and a zesty dressing that adds crunch and taste to your tacos. Here’s how you can make cilantro lime slaw at home easily and quickly.

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Slaw

• 2 cups of shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup of shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup of grated carrots
• 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup of lime juice
• 1/4 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• One tablespoon of olive oil
• One teaspoon of honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Make Cilantro Lime Slaw

1. Mix the green and red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro in a large bowl.
2. Mix the lime juice, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in another bowl. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the veggies. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt and pepper if you like.
5. Let the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors mix well.

The slaw not only adds a vibrant topping and a refreshing taste but also contributes to the dish’s nutritional value. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making your tacos healthier and more balanced.

With fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing, this slaw makes your tacos better. Here’s a nutritional summary for your meal:

Enjoy making cilantro lime slaw, and take your shrimp tacos to a delicious new height!

Assembling Your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Making homemade shrimp tacos is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. First, warm up your chosen tortilla. Many prefer white corn tortillas for their genuine taste and feel. Then, spread a layer of mashed avocado on each tortilla, creating a creamy foundation.

Next, pile on about 2 1/2 cups of fresh cilantro lime slaw. Ensure you keep the slaw-to-shrimp ratio at 2:1 for each taco. The lime juice in the slaw pairs wonderfully with the zesty shrimp. Top this with spicy shrimp; around 24 oz is perfect for making eight tacos.

Finally, add a generous sprinkle of Cotija cheese to the shrimp. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime and a drizzle of your favorite spicy sauce—this could be Sriracha or any spicy dressing you love. Every layer, from the avocado to the lime, brings a burst of taste. It makes every bite of your homemade shrimp tacos unforgettable.

What to Serve with These Tacos

Choose the right sides and drinks for your spicy shrimp tacos to improve your taco night. You’ll find the perfect flavors for a complete and enjoyable meal here.

Delicious Side Dishes

Explore various taco side dishes to turn your meal into a big feast. Here are the best options:

• Fresh Mango Salsa: Brings a sweet freshness and is ready in under 5 minutes.
• Easy Homemade Salsa: A must-have that rounds off any taco meal.
• Homemade Refried Beans: This is a favorite Mexican dish that is full of flavor.
• Pinto Beans and Rice: A filling side that goes well with shrimp tacos.
• Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Savory corn that adds a bit of sweetness.
• Mexican Chopped Salad: A crunchy, vibrant salad that adds freshness to your meal.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Ready in about 10 minutes, it adds a zesty taste to your dish.

Choosing these sides will make your meal richer in flavor and perfectly match the spicy shrimp tacos.

Perfect Beverages

Choosing the right drinks for taco night can improve your meal. They balance the spice and add a refreshing touch.

• Cold Beers: Beers like Corona or Modelo offers a crisp flavor with tacos.
• Tangy Margaritas: A margarita’s citrusy taste is perfect against the shrimp’s heat.
• Refreshing Limeades: A tasty, non-alcoholic option that keeps your taste buds happy.

These drinks refresh you and bring out the best in your spicy shrimp tacos, making your meal unforgettable.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Tacos

To make your shrimp tacos unforgettable, start with fresh or well-thawed shrimp. This ensures the best final taste. Add taco seasoning and garlic powder generously. Let the shrimp marinate briefly to boost their flavor.

Choosing high-quality tortillas is key. To avoid tearing and to make them flexible, warm them properly. Use a dry skillet or open flame for heating.

Marinating is crucial. Let the shrimp sit in spices for at least 10 minutes. This step packs a flavor punch.

Cook the shrimp fast over high heat. Whether you grill or pan-sear, this keeps them juicy.