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Flavorful Shrimp Tacos Recipe with Easy Zesty Cilantro Lime Slaw

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Quick and easy shrimp tacos with a zesty cilantro lime slaw that offers a fresh, tangy crunch and perfectly seasoned shrimp with a mild kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to season
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (or dairy-free yogurt)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional garnishes: sliced avocado, extra cilantro leaves, lime wedges, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slaw: In a medium bowl, combine shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, then sprinkle the spice blend evenly over them.
  3. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on one side until pink and slightly charred. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until opaque. Remove from heat immediately.
  4. Warm the tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side or wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Assemble the tacos: Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with cilantro lime slaw, and add optional garnishes like avocado slices, extra cilantro, lime wedges, or hot sauce.
  6. Serve immediately while shrimp are warm and slaw is crunchy.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure a good sear. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Toss slaw gently to keep it crunchy. Warm tortillas properly to prevent cracking. Store shrimp and slaw separately if making ahead. Reheat shrimp gently to avoid rubberiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, cilantro lime slaw, easy shrimp recipe, quick tacos, seafood tacos, healthy tacos, gluten-free tacos, dairy-free option