Name: Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for shrimp); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 8 small flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for slaw); 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw bring a bright burst of flavor to my table every time I make them. The juicy, spiced shrimp pairs perfectly with a tangy, creamy slaw, all tucked into warm tortillas. It’s a recipe I turn to when I want something fresh, fast, and full of personality.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

8 small flour tortillas

1 cup shredded cabbage

½ cup shredded carrots

¼ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons sour cream

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by tossing the shrimp with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then I let them marinate for 10–15 minutes.

While the shrimp is soaking up the flavors, I mix together the cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the slaw. I set it aside so the flavors meld.

I heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.

I warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or the microwave for about 20–30 seconds so they’re soft and pliable.

To assemble, I add shrimp to each tortilla, top with creamy slaw, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. I serve them right away with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. If I’m in the mood for extra heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning. I’ve also made these with grilled shrimp for a smoky flavor, and occasionally, I mix in thinly sliced jalapeños to the slaw for a little kick.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I keep the slaw separate so it doesn’t make the tortillas soggy. To reheat the shrimp, I use a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes, just until warmed through. I avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long so they don’t become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

I look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, and they should curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooking makes them tough.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp, but I make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the slaw?

I sometimes swap the mayo for Greek yogurt to make the slaw a bit lighter and tangier.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the slaw up to a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. I give it a quick stir before serving.

What toppings go well with these tacos?

I like to add avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are one of my go-to recipes for a satisfying yet light meal. The combination of spiced shrimp, crunchy slaw, and warm tortillas always hits the spot, and I love how easy they are to customize. They’re quick, fresh, and perfect for any taco night.

Recipe:

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Juicy, spiced shrimp paired with a tangy, creamy slaw, all wrapped in warm tortillas for a fresh, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Instructions

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Marinate for 10–15 minutes.
Meanwhile, in another bowl, mix cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the slaw. Set aside.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20–30 seconds until soft and pliable.
Assemble tacos by placing shrimp in each tortilla, topping with creamy slaw, and sprinkling with fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges if desired.