Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are packed with bold, fresh flavors that’ll instantly transport you to a sunny beachside taco stand! Imagine perfectly spiced, succulent shrimp nestled in soft tortillas, layered with crunchy cabbage slaw, creamy avocado, tangy Cotija cheese, and a vibrant garlic-cilantro-lime sauce. Every bite bursts with freshness and just the right amount of spice. Trust me—these tacos are a delicious game-changer that’ll quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: Zesty, vibrant flavors in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with nutritious ingredients like shrimp, avocado, and cabbage.
• Fully Customizable: Adjust the spice and toppings to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these flavorful ingredients for your spicy shrimp tacos:

Garlic Cilantro Lime Sauce

• Oil: Creates a smooth consistency.
• Green onions and cilantro: Add freshness and flavor.
• Garlic and salt: Provide aromatic depth.
• Lime juice: Brightens the sauce beautifully.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For creamy tanginess.
• Water (optional): Helps thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Shrimp Taco Spice Mix

• Chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, sea salt: Perfect blend of spices for irresistible shrimp.

Taco Assembly

• Shrimp (peeled, deveined): Protein-packed and quick-cooking.
• Shredded green cabbage: Crunchy and fresh.
• Small tortillas (corn or flour): Soft wraps for your tacos.
• Avocados: Adds creamy texture and richness.
• Cotija cheese: Adds salty, crumbly goodness.
• Lime wedges: Brightens each taco upon serving.

Note: Full measurements are available in the recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Garlic Cilantro Lime Sauce

Blend sauce ingredients in a food processor until mostly smooth. Add water if needed to thin the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare Slaw

Toss a portion of the prepared sauce with shredded cabbage, reserving extra sauce for topping.

Step 3: Season and Cook Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry and coat evenly with spice mix. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp 5-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Layer your tortillas with smashed avocado, slaw, and shrimp. Top with Cotija cheese, lime wedges, and extra sauce.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Perfect Shrimp: Patting shrimp dry before seasoning ensures a beautiful sear.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust the sauce thickness by adding more or less water.
• Taco Assembly: Layer ingredients in order—avocado, slaw, shrimp—for easy eating and great presentation.

How to Serve

Serve your Spicy Shrimp Tacos fresh and warm with extra lime wedges, hot sauce, or fresh salsa on the side. Pair with a crisp, refreshing drink or chilled Mexican beer for a perfect meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store shrimp, slaw, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Warm shrimp briefly in a skillet or microwave until just heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry thoroughly before cooking.

Can these tacos be made less spicy?
Absolutely! Adjust or omit the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.

Can I use other types of seafood?
Definitely—this recipe works beautifully with fish, scallops, or even chicken.

What can I substitute for Cotija cheese?
Feta or queso fresco are both excellent substitutes that maintain the same salty, crumbly texture.

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are sure to spice up your taco night and impress your tastebuds every time!

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