Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw Recipe

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are the kind of crowd-pleasing meal I make whenever I want to turn any night into a mini fiesta. With tender, golden-seared shrimp tossed in honey-lime butter, a crunchy, tangy slaw, and creamy avocado nestled inside a warm tortilla, every bite bursts with zippy flavor and fresh texture. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight yet feels festive enough for special gatherings, making it one you’ll want to keep on repeat for taco night and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a mile-long shopping list to make these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw, but every ingredient plays an essential role. The beauty of this recipe is in its fresh herbs, bright citrus, contrasting textures, and clever seasoning—each one adding color, flavor, or that crave-worthy finish to your tacos.

• Wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined: Opt for high-quality shrimp for sweet flavor and juicy texture that stands out in every taco.
• Salt and black pepper: These pantry staples wake up all the flavors in the shrimp and slaw.
• Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder: This bold trio brings smoky warmth, depth, and a gentle kick to the shrimp.
• Olive oil: Perfect for getting those shrimp beautifully golden and slightly caramelized in the skillet.
• Butter: Adds a velvety richness to the honey-lime sauce that coats the shrimp.
• Lime zest and juice: Bright, aromatic lime stars in both the shrimp and slaw for tangy, citrusy punch.
• Honey: Balances the tang and spice with a touch of natural sweetness in the sauce.
• Cilantro (divided): Chopped fresh cilantro adds irresistible herbal zing and gorgeous green color to both shrimp and slaw.
• Green cabbage, finely shredded: Brings crisp texture and freshness to the slaw, perfect for crunch factor in your tacos.
• Greek yogurt: Replaces traditional mayo, giving the slaw a creamy, tangy bite that’s lighter and more refreshing.
• Avocado, sliced: Creamy, cool, and mellow—avocado completes the taco with soothing richness.
• 6-inch tortillas (corn or flour): Choose your favorite style! Tortillas become the tasty canvas for all the amazing fillings.
• Extra lime wedges, for serving: Little bursts of extra brightness to finish every taco just right.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Step 1: Prep and Season the Shrimp

Pat your shrimp dry with a paper towel—don’t skip this step, as dry shrimp means better browning and caramelization. Sprinkle over the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder, then toss well so each piece is coated in flavorful magic. This step sets the foundation for your ultimate Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and swirl in the olive oil. When shimmering and hot, add the shrimp in a single layer (work in two batches if needed so they cook evenly). Cook for about 90 seconds per side, until the shrimp are opaque and just develop those irresistible golden spots—watch closely, as shrimp cook fast!

Step 3: Make the Honey-Lime Butter Sauce

Turn the heat to low, then add the butter, lime zest, lime juice, and honey straight into the pan. Stir and toss the shrimp, letting that sauce bubble and thicken for a couple of minutes. You’re aiming for a glossy, sticky glaze that hugs every shrimp. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro for fresh, vibrant flavor infused throughout.

Step 4: Toss Together the Creamy Slaw

In a big bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss until you have a light, creamy, and herb-speckled slaw—the yogurt and lime should coat everything lightly, without drowning the cabbage. This slaw is satisfyingly crisp and just creamy enough, perfectly balancing the rich shrimp.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Warm your tortillas using your favorite method—for that bit of smoky flavor and tenderness, heat them directly over a gas flame (just until puffed and charred), or simply wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for about 30 seconds. Warm tortillas make every bite of Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw taste even more comforting and fresh.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Now comes the fun! In each tortilla, layer a scoop of creamy slaw, then pile on 4–6 shrimp along with their glossy sauce. Top with slices of creamy avocado, a shower of extra cilantro, and an extra squeeze of lime if you love zing. Repeat for all tortillas and serve right away—these tacos are best enjoyed fresh and warm!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Garnishes

Don’t hold back with the toppings! Cilantro leaves, thinly sliced radishes, pickled red onions, extra lime wedges, or a dollop of hot sauce are all fantastic with Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw. Each garnish brings its own color and pop of flavor, letting everyone customize their perfect taco.

Side Dishes

These tacos absolutely shine alongside simple Mexican rice, charred street corn (elote), black beans, or even a fresh fruit salsa. For a lighter touch, serve with a green salad tossed with citrus vinaigrette. Any of these sides will round out your taco spread and turn dinnertime into a festive occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or feeding a group, make a DIY taco bar with individual bowls of slaw, shrimp, avocado, and garnishes for a fun, interactive meal. For appetizers, try serving Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw in mini tortillas or lettuce wraps. You could even lay out all the fillings on a large board for a stunning “taco board” presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra shrimp or slaw, store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep tortillas wrapped tight to prevent them from drying out, and always assemble tacos just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

While the creamy slaw is best fresh, the seasoned shrimp freeze quite well. Cool them fully, then pack into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your next round of Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw.

Reheating

To reheat shrimp for tacos, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat until just heated through—avoid microwaving, which can make shrimp rubbery. The slaw is best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, so just give it a quick toss before adding to your tortillas.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before seasoning; this ensures your shrimp sear instead of steam, giving you the best flavor and texture.

What type of tortillas work best?

Both corn and flour tortillas are delicious for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw—corn adds classic flavor and chew, while flour is soft and flexible. Toasted or lightly charred tortillas always bring extra personality to your tacos!

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt in the slaw, and use a vegan buttery spread for the shrimp sauce. The result is still zesty, creamy, and totally satisfying.

Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?

Definitely. Make the creamy slaw a few hours in advance and store in the fridge; the flavors actually meld and improve if it sits for a bit. Just give it a gentle toss before building your tacos.

How can I make the tacos spicier?

If you love a little fire, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning, or serve your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw with fresh jalapeño slices or chipotle hot sauce for an extra heat boost.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something vibrant, quick, and bursting with fresh flavors, give Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw a whirl. They’re weeknight-friendly but special enough for guests—so grab your favorite tortillas and let taco night begin!

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