Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a party recipe that’s bursting with flavor, these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are just the ticket. Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp combined with a creamy, tangy slaw all wrapped up in warm tortillas—it’s a fiesta of textures and tastes in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw

Why You’ll Love This

Bursting with bold, zesty flavors that wake up your taste buds.
Quick and easy—on the table in under 30 minutes!
Fresh homemade slaw adds delicious crunch and tang.
Customizable heat level for every palate.
Perfect for Taco Night, parties, or sunny picnics!

Ingredients

For the Spicy Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lime

For the Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw:

2 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix, about ½ small head)
½ cup shredded carrots
⅓ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoon Greek yogurt or sour cream
Juice of 1 lime
1 clove garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembling:

8 small corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
Extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. Toss well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Season and Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Add shrimp and toss until thoroughly coated. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for 2 minutes per side, or until shrimp are opaque and slightly charred. (Total cook time: 4 minutes)
Remove shrimp from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a flame until soft and slightly blistered.
Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of garlic cilantro lime slaw.
Top with 3–4 spicy shrimp, extra cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before marinating for a better sear.
Use pre-shredded slaw mix for an even faster prep time.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they’ll turn rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Variations

Grilled Shrimp: Thread marinated shrimp on skewers and grill for extra smoky flavor.
Mango Avocado Salsa: Add a fruity, creamy salsa for sweet contrast.
Taco Bowls: Serve the shrimp and slaw over rice instead of tortillas.

Required Equipment

Large skillet (or grill pan)
Mixing bowls
Cutting board & knife
Measuring spoons & cups
Spatula or tongs

Storage Instructions

Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers.
Shrimp: best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Slaw: keeps well for up to 3 days (may soften slightly but retains flavor).
Warm tortillas fresh before serving leftovers.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Pair with chips and guacamole or a side of Mexican street corn.
Serve with a crisp, cold lager or tangy margarita for full fiesta vibes.
Round out your meal with a fresh fruit salad or quick black bean salad.

Pro Tips

Zest your lime before juicing for an extra punch of citrus flavor in the slaw.
Sear shrimp in small batches for the best char and juiciness.
Warm tortillas directly over a gas flame for authentic, toasty edges.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before marinating.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking or omit it for a milder taste.

What’s the best tortilla to use?

Either corn or flour tortillas work great—pick your favorite, or try both for variety!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Yield: 8 tacos (Serves 4)