Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw Recipe

My family are self-proclaimed taco aficionados, and we’ve tried countless variations over the years – from classic carne asada to adventurous vegetarian fillings. But let me tell you, these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw have become a new household favorite, and for very good reason. The bright, zesty marinade infuses plump shrimp with a burst of fresh citrus and herbaceous cilantro, creating a flavor profile that’s both vibrant and utterly addictive. Paired with a crunchy, cool, and creamy slaw that offers the perfect textural contrast, these tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience. From weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings, they’ve consistently earned rave reviews, even from my notoriously picky teenager! The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, coming together quickly without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. If you’re looking for a taco recipe that’s fresh, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, look no further. These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are about to become your new go-to.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

To create these sensational Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos and their accompanying creamy slaw, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break down each component and discuss why each ingredient is crucial to the final dish, along with some tips for selecting the best options.

For the Cilantro Lime Shrimp Marinade:

• 1 pound Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined: Shrimp is the star of the show, and choosing the right kind is important. Large shrimp are ideal for tacos as they are substantial and hold their shape well during cooking. Look for shrimp that is labeled “wild-caught” or “sustainably sourced” if possible. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; if using frozen, ensure it is fully thawed before marinating. Deveining shrimp is crucial for removing the digestive tract, which can sometimes have a gritty texture and unpleasant taste. Peeled shrimp saves time, but you can also buy shell-on shrimp and peel them yourself. The shells can be saved to make a flavorful seafood stock later!
• 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (about 2-3 limes): Freshly squeezed lime juice is non-negotiable for this recipe. Bottled lime juice simply doesn’t have the same vibrant, zesty flavor. The acidity of the lime juice not only tenderizes the shrimp but also “cooks” it slightly in the marinade, infusing it with that signature citrus tang. Choose limes that are heavy for their size and have a smooth, bright green skin. Roll the limes firmly on the countertop before juicing to release more juice.
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil: Olive oil acts as a carrier for the flavors in the marinade and helps to keep the shrimp moist during cooking. Extra virgin olive oil offers the best flavor, but regular olive oil works well too. You can also use avocado oil or another neutral oil if preferred.
• 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro is the herb that defines the fresh, vibrant flavor of these tacos. Use fresh cilantro only – dried cilantro is not a suitable substitute. Choose cilantro with bright green, perky leaves. Avoid bunches that are wilted or yellowing. Don’t be afraid to use the stems as well as the leaves; they are packed with flavor! Simply chop the tender stems finely along with the leaves.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic adds a pungent, savory depth to the marinade that complements the lime and cilantro beautifully. Freshly minced garlic is always best. You can use a garlic press, microplane, or finely chop the garlic cloves. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic, but fresh garlic will provide a more robust flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder: Chili powder provides a subtle warmth and smoky undertone to the marinade. Use a good quality chili powder, preferably one that is not too spicy. If you prefer more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño to the marinade.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. Use kosher salt or sea salt.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the marinade.

For the Creamy Slaw:

• 4 cups Shredded Cabbage (Green or Red, or a mix): Cabbage forms the base of the slaw, providing a satisfying crunch and mild flavor. You can use green cabbage, red cabbage, or a combination of both for visual appeal and a slightly more complex flavor profile. Pre-shredded cabbage mix (coleslaw mix) is a convenient option, but shredding your own cabbage will result in a fresher, crisper slaw. To shred cabbage, remove the outer leaves, cut the cabbage into quarters, and then thinly slice or shred using a knife, mandoline, or food processor.
• 1 cup Shredded Carrots: Carrots add sweetness, color, and another layer of crunch to the slaw. You can use pre-shredded carrots or shred your own using a box grater. Choose firm, bright orange carrots for the best flavor and texture.
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is the base of the creamy dressing, providing richness and binding the slaw together. Use good quality mayonnaise. For a lighter option, you can use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
• 1/4 cup Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt): Sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess to the dressing, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative and adds a similar tang. Full-fat or low-fat options both work well.
• 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream and brightens the overall flavor of the slaw. You can substitute white wine vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
• 1 tablespoon Sugar (or Honey/Maple Syrup): A touch of sweetness balances the acidity and tanginess of the dressing. Granulated sugar, honey, or maple syrup can be used. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon Celery Seed: Celery seed adds a distinctive savory, slightly peppery flavor to the slaw that is classic and delicious. Don’t skip this ingredient!
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the slaw dressing.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice.

For Serving:

• 12 Corn or Flour Tortillas: Tortillas are the vessel for these delicious tacos. Corn tortillas are traditional for tacos and offer a slightly nutty flavor. Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Choose your preferred type or offer both options. Warming the tortillas before serving is highly recommended for better flavor and texture.
• Optional Toppings: The beauty of tacos is that you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Consider offering:
  • Avocado slices or guacamole: Adds creamy richness and healthy fats.
  • Pico de gallo or salsa: Adds fresh, vibrant flavor and extra heat.
  • Queso fresco or crumbled cotija cheese: Adds salty, crumbly texture and cheesy flavor.
  • Lime wedges: For extra zest and acidity.
  • Hot sauce: For those who like a spicy kick.
  • Chopped red onion: Adds a pungent bite.
  • Extra cilantro sprigs: For garnish and added freshness.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Taco Perfection

Now that we have all our ingredients prepped, let’s walk through the simple steps to create these incredible Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw. These instructions are designed to be clear and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp (15 minutes)

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp, fresh lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir well to ensure the shrimp is evenly coated in the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. Important Note: Do not marinate the shrimp for longer than 30 minutes in lime juice, as the acid can start to “cook” the shrimp and make it tough. While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the creamy slaw.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Slaw (15 minutes)

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, sugar (or honey/maple syrup), celery seed, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots.
4. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly with the dressing.
5. Refrigerate the slaw for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for the slaw to chill. The slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. In fact, the flavor often improves as it sits.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp (5-7 minutes)

1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. You can add a teaspoon of olive oil to the pan if desired, although the marinade already contains oil.
2. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the marinade after removing the shrimp.
3. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet or grill pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the shrimp instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.
4. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it, as it can become rubbery. Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape when cooked.
5. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet or grill pan and set aside.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas (5-10 minutes)

1. Warm the tortillas according to your preferred method. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, until softened and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or microwave them briefly.
2. Keep the warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or tortilla warmer to keep them warm and pliable until serving.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos and Serve (5 minutes)

1. Lay out the warmed tortillas.
2. Place 2-3 cooked shrimp in the center of each tortilla.
3. Top with a generous spoonful of creamy slaw.
4. Add any desired optional toppings, such as avocado, pico de gallo, cheese, lime wedges, or hot sauce.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts: A Delicious and Relatively Healthy Choice

(Estimated Nutrition Facts per Taco – Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 2 Tacos
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 25-35 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18-25 grams
• Cholesterol: 200-250 mg
• Sodium: 600-800 mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
  • Fiber: 3-5 grams
  • Sugar: 8-12 grams

Key Nutritional Highlights:

• Good Source of Protein: Shrimp is a lean protein source, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and avocado (if used as a topping) provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp is a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Cabbage and carrots in the slaw provide vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
• Relatively Low in Carbs: Compared to many other taco fillings, shrimp is relatively low in carbohydrates. Choosing corn tortillas over flour tortillas can further reduce the carbohydrate content.

Tips for Making it Healthier:

• Use Greek Yogurt instead of Sour Cream: Reduces fat and calories in the slaw while increasing protein.
• Light Mayonnaise: Cuts down on fat and calories in the slaw dressing.
• Whole Wheat Tortillas: Increases fiber content.
• Load up on Vegetables: Add extra shredded vegetables to the slaw or additional veggie toppings like bell peppers or jicama.
• Grill or Bake the Shrimp: Instead of pan-frying, grilling or baking the shrimp reduces added fat.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy From Start to Finish

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings because they are relatively quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes peeling shrimp, chopping vegetables, making marinade and slaw dressing)
• Marinating Time: 15-30 minutes (can be done while prepping other components)
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes (for cooking shrimp)
• Warming Tortillas: 5-10 minutes
• Total Time (excluding marinating): Approximately 30-40 minutes

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Slaw: The creamy slaw can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors meld and improve over time.
• Marinade: The marinade can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
• Shrimp: While it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh, you can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.
• Toppings: Chop vegetables for toppings like pico de gallo or red onion in advance.

How to Serve: Elevate Your Taco Experience

Serving these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos is all about creating a fun and flavorful experience. Here are some ideas to make your taco night a hit:

• Taco Bar Style: Set up a taco bar with all the components laid out separately. This allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking. Include:
  • Warmed tortillas (corn and/or flour)
  • Cooked cilantro lime shrimp
  • Creamy slaw
  • Assortment of toppings (see optional toppings list above)
  • Bowls and spoons for easy assembly
• Side Dishes to Complement: Round out your meal with delicious side dishes that complement the flavors of the tacos:
  • Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice: Classic and flavorful accompaniments.
  • Black Beans or Refried Beans: Add protein and heartiness.
  • Corn Salad or Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad): Fresh and vibrant side salads.
  • Tortilla Chips and Guacamole or Salsa: Always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Watermelon or Mango Salad: A refreshing and light side, especially in the summer.
• Drinks to Pair: Choose beverages that enhance the flavors of the tacos:
  • Margaritas (classic lime, strawberry, or mango): The quintessential taco pairing.
  • Mexican Beer (like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico): Light and refreshing.
  • Agua Frescas (like watermelon, hibiscus, or lime): Non-alcoholic and hydrating.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: Simple and refreshing options.
• Presentation Matters: Make your taco spread visually appealing:
  • Use colorful serving dishes and bowls.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs and lime wedges.
  • Arrange toppings in an organized and attractive manner.
  • Use tortilla warmers to keep tortillas warm and presentable.

Additional Tips for Taco Success

Here are 5 extra tips to ensure your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are absolutely perfect every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Cooking Shrimp: Cooking shrimp in batches in a single layer ensures they sear properly and don’t steam. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and can result in rubbery shrimp.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the marinade and slaw dressing before adding the shrimp and cabbage/carrots, respectively. Adjust the salt, pepper, sugar, and lime juice to your preference. Personal taste varies, so don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to your liking.
3. Warm Your Tortillas Properly: Warming tortillas not only improves their flavor and texture but also makes them more pliable and less likely to tear when you fill them. Don’t skip this step!
4. Make the Slaw Ahead of Time: Preparing the slaw a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes your taco assembly process much quicker on the day you plan to serve them.
5. Customize Your Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Experiment with different salsas, cheeses, pickled onions, or roasted vegetables to create your perfect taco combination. Tacos are all about personalization!

FAQ: Your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Taco Questions Answered

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the refrigerator. You can also quick-thaw it by placing the frozen shrimp in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes, changing the water every 10 minutes. Ensure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

Q2: I don’t like cilantro. Can I substitute it with something else?
A: While cilantro is a key flavor in this recipe, if you have a strong aversion to it, you can try substituting it with fresh parsley or a combination of parsley and mint. However, the flavor profile will be different. If you simply want to reduce the cilantro flavor, use a smaller amount.

Q3: Can I make the slaw without mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can make the slaw lighter by substituting the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. The texture will be slightly tangier and less rich, but still delicious. You can also use a combination of half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt.

Q4: How spicy are these tacos?
A: As written, these tacos have a very mild heat level from the chili powder. If you prefer spicier tacos, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade, include a finely chopped jalapeño (seeds and membranes removed for less heat, or left in for more heat), or serve with hot sauce on the side.

Q5: How long do leftover shrimp tacos last?
A: It’s best to assemble and eat tacos fresh for the best texture, especially to keep the tortillas from getting soggy. However, leftover cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The creamy slaw can also be stored separately in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. When reheating leftover shrimp, do so gently to avoid overcooking and drying it out. It’s generally recommended to assemble fresh tacos rather than reheating fully assembled tacos.

Enjoy making and savoring these incredible Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw! They are sure to become a regular feature on your menu.

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