Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

There’s something magical about the combination of zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and succulent shrimp that makes these cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw absolutely irresistible! This quick and flavorful meal has become a staple in our house, especially on busy weeknights when I need something delicious that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

These tacos strike the perfect balance of bright flavors, creamy texture, and just the right amount of spice.

The shrimp cooks in minutes, and that honey-lime sauce? My kid and my husband both cleaned their plates and asked when we could have them again!

If you’re looking for a fresh twist on taco night that’s ready in under 30 minutes, you need to try this recipe. Check out my air fryer shrimp recipe for another quick cooking method!

Why You’ll Love These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

So Quick and Easy: From start to finish, these tacos take less than 30 minutes to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Bursting with Fresh Flavor: The combination of lime, cilantro, and honey creates a sauce that’s tangy, sweet, and incredibly addictive.

Kid-Approved: My little ones gobble these up! The mild spices and sweet honey lime sauce make them family-friendly while still being flavorful enough for adults.

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

For the Shrimp

• Wild-caught shrimp: I prefer using large or jumbo shrimp (16-20 count per pound) for these tacos. They’re meatier and don’t overcook as easily.
• Spice blend: The mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder gives these shrimp a beautiful color and flavor without making them spicy.
• Butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly.
• Lime zest and juice: Don’t skip the zest! It adds intense lime flavor without extra acidity.
• Honey: Balances the acidity of the lime and adds a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
• Fresh cilantro: If you’re not a cilantro fan, you can substitute with flat-leaf parsley, but the cilantro really makes these tacos special.

For the Creamy Slaw

• Green cabbage: Provides a fresh crunch that contrasts with the tender shrimp.
• Greek yogurt: Makes the slaw creamy while keeping it lighter than traditional mayo-based slaws.
• Lime juice: Adds brightness to cut through the richness of the yogurt.

How to Make Perfect Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Sauce

Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a nice sear on the shrimp.

Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder, making sure they’re evenly coated.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Cook for about 90 seconds per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque with some golden caramelization.

Reduce the heat and add butter, lime zest, lime juice, and honey. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp.

Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro.

Make the Creamy Slaw

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice.
2. Toss until the cabbage is evenly coated. The slaw should be lightly dressed, not swimming in sauce.

Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm your tortillas using your preferred method.
2. Layer each tortilla with creamy slaw, 4-6 shrimp, and a spoonful of the cilantro honey lime sauce.
3. Top with sliced avocado and an extra squeeze of lime juice.

Tips for Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook incredibly fast! Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
• Prepare the slaw first: This gives the flavors time to meld while you cook the shrimp.
• Warm your tortillas: This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor. I love warming mine directly over a gas flame for a slight char.
• Serve with all the fixings: Set up a taco bar with extra cilantro, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, and hot sauce so everyone can customize.

Variations for These Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne to the shrimp seasoning or top with sliced jalapeños.

Try a tropical twist: Add diced mango or pineapple to the slaw for a sweet-tangy combination.

Go dairy-free: Substitute the Greek yogurt with avocado for a dairy-free creamy slaw.

Switch up the protein: This same seasoning and sauce works beautifully with chicken, fish, or even roasted cauliflower for a vegetarian option.

What to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

These tacos pair perfectly with:

• Secret Ingredient Fried Rice
• Blackberry Basil Ricotta Pizza for a fun fusion dinner
• Frozen Lemonade perfect for summer taco nights!

FAQs

The Perfect Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

These cilantro lime shrimp tacos have become a family favorite in our house. The combination of juicy shrimp, zesty lime, and the cool, creamy slaw creates a perfect bite every time.

I love how quickly they come together, making them ideal for both busy weeknights and casual weekend dinners with friends.

The honey lime sauce adds just the right touch of sweetness that even my picky eater enjoys. James always asks for seconds, which is the ultimate seal of approval in our house!

I hope you give these tacos a try for your next taco night. They’re sure to become a regular in your meal rotation too! If you make them, I’d love to hear what you and your family thought of them in the comments below.

Happy cooking!

Iris

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