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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Tacos
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Description

These spicy shrimp tacos are quick, flavorful, and topped with a zesty garlic cilantro lime slaw that’s fresh and crunchy. Perfect for taco night, this recipe delivers bold flavor in under 30 minutes—no fuss, just seriously good tacos.


Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw:

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage

  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

  • 6-8 small corn or flour tortillas

  • Lime wedges

  • Extra cilantro or sliced jalapeños (optional)

  • Avocado or guacamole (optional)


Instructions

  1. Make the Slaw:
    In a large bowl, mix green and red cabbage, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss well and let sit to marinate while you prep the shrimp.

  2. Cook the Shrimp:
    In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
    Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

  3. Warm the Tortillas:
    Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame until pliable and slightly charred.

  4. Assemble the Tacos:
    Add a spoonful of slaw to each tortilla, top with spicy shrimp, and finish with a squeeze of lime. Add optional toppings like avocado or jalapeños.


Notes

  • Want it dairy-free? This recipe already is!

  • Use pre-shredded cabbage for a shortcut.

  • Add chipotle mayo or crema for a creamy finish.