Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are a bold and refreshing take on taco night. Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp are quickly sautéed and served in warm tortillas, topped with a zesty, creamy slaw that’s bursting with lime and fresh herbs. The combination of heat, crunch, and citrusy tang makes these tacos completely irresistible—and they come together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in less than 30 minutes
• The perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors
• A lighter, fresh twist on traditional tacos
• Great for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining
• Naturally gluten-free with corn tortillas and dairy-free options available

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the spicy shrimp:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cumin
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• Lime juice

For the garlic cilantro lime slaw:

• Shredded green or purple cabbage (or a mix)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Lime juice
• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• Honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper

For serving:

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Avocado slices (optional)
• Extra lime wedges
• Hot sauce (optional)

directions

this recipe

1. Make the slaw: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, mayo or yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper. Add shredded cabbage and cilantro, then toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and lime juice.
3. Cook the shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
5. Assemble the tacos: Add slaw to each tortilla, top with shrimp, avocado slices if using, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 (makes 8 small tacos)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Make it dairy-free: Use vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt alternative in the slaw.
• Add fruit: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet, tropical contrast.
• Use another protein: Swap shrimp for grilled fish, tofu, or chicken.
• Make it extra spicy: Add hot sauce or sliced jalapeños on top.
• Add crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or pepitas for texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat shrimp in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly.
Slaw is best served fresh but will hold its texture for a day or two.
Tacos are best assembled fresh.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

What type of shrimp is best?

Large shrimp (16–20 per pound) work well for tacos—they’re meaty and quick to cook.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Are these tacos spicy?

They have a mild to medium heat—adjust cayenne and chili powder to your liking.

Can I grill the shrimp?

Absolutely—thread them on skewers or use a grill basket and cook for 2–3 minutes per side.

What tortillas are best?

Corn tortillas offer a traditional flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more flexible—use what you prefer.

How do I keep tortillas warm?

Wrap in foil and place in a low oven or cover with a towel after warming.

Can I use a bagged slaw mix?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut—just mix it with the dressing.

What toppings go well with these tacos?

Avocado, lime, hot sauce, pickled onions, or cotija cheese are great additions.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Easily doubled to feed a crowd—just cook shrimp in batches for best results.

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that delivers on every level—heat, crunch, freshness, and creaminess. Whether it’s taco Tuesday or just a craving for something bright and satisfying, these tacos are a guaranteed hit. Quick to make, fun to eat, and endlessly customizable, they’re bound to become a new go-to favorite.

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