These vibrant shrimp tacos are a hit! Marinated in zesty lime and cilantro, the shrimp are bursting with flavor, while a creamy slaw adds just the right crunch!
Whenever I make these tacos, I can’t help but smile at how fresh they taste. Perfect for sunny days or taco nights. Don’t forget to squeeze extra lime on top for that extra zing! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal for a great taste and texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works too, just thaw them before cooking. Bay shrimp or even fish could be a good alternative if you’re looking for a change.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. You could swap it for avocado oil or melted coconut oil if preferred. Just avoid strong-flavored oils like sesame, which might overpower the dish.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors! If you’re out of limes, lemon juice can work as a substitute, but it will have a different taste. I recommend using fresh rather than bottled juice for the best zing.
Cilantro: This herb is central to the dish’s fresh flavor. For those who just don’t like cilantro, fresh parsley or mint can provide a different but enjoyable flavor. Try fresh spices for a burst when substituting.
Cabbage: Green cabbage gives crunch and color; red cabbage could be used for a little more sweetness. If you’re avoiding cabbage, shredded carrots or a salad mix can also work in the slaw.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s all about timing. You want them just right so they stay juicy and tender. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Cook over medium-high heat to let the shrimp sear properly.
- Keep an eye on the color: shrimp will turn pink and opaque when done, which usually takes just 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, as that can cause uneven cooking; do it in batches if needed.
Following these steps will ensure your shrimp is perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy your tacos with confidence!
Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
For the Creamy Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll enjoy flavorful marinated shrimp, creamy slaw, and warm tortillas, all coming together quickly and easily!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Shrimp:
Start by making the marinade. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until it’s nicely blended.
Then, add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes to soak up all those zesty flavors.
2. Preparing the Creamy Slaw:
While the shrimp is marinating, it’s time to whip up the slaw! In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated. Set this mixture aside for the flavors to meld.
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Once the shrimp is marinated, heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. When it’s nice and hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and are cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they look plump and pink!
4. Warming the Tortillas:
While the shrimp is cooking, warm the tortillas in another skillet or over a flame, just until they’re pliable and warm. This will make them easy to fold and fill.
5. Assembling the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a warm tortilla and add a few pieces of cooked shrimp in the center. Top with slices of avocado and a good spoonful of creamy slaw. It’s all about building those delicious layers!
6. Serving:
Serve your tacos immediately while they’re warm. Add extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro on the side for a burst of flavor! Enjoy your zesty shrimp tacos—they’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure the marinade sticks well.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Slaw?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt for the mayonnaise. This will still give you a creamy texture while adding a bit of tang to your slaw.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will last up to 2 days, while the slaw is best enjoyed within a day for optimal crunchiness. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to warm through before assembling more tacos!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp and prepare the creamy slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the shrimp and assemble the tacos. This helps enhance the flavors!
