Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are a vibrant, flavorful meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Tender shrimp coated in a smoky chili and cumin spice blend are sautéed to perfection and paired with a creamy, zesty garlic cilantro lime sauce tossed into crunchy cabbage slaw. Served on warm tortillas and topped with creamy avocado, crumbly Cotija cheese, and fresh lime wedges, these tacos deliver a perfect balance of spice, freshness, and creaminess in every bite.

Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup water (if needed, to thin sauce)

Spice Mix for Shrimp

  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
  • 2-3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
  • 2 avocados
  • 1/4 cup Cotija cheese
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the Sauce: Pulse oil, chopped green onions, cilantro leaves, garlic, salt, lime juice, and sour cream or Greek yogurt in a food processor or blender until mostly smooth. Add water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.
  2. Prepare the Slaw: Toss some of the freshly made garlic cilantro lime sauce with the shredded green cabbage to coat it lightly. Reserve the leftover sauce to drizzle on the finished tacos later.
  3. Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they sear properly. Combine chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and sea salt in a small bowl, then toss the shrimp in this spice mix to evenly coat them.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a small drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and sauté for 5 to 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until shrimp are fully cooked through and opaque.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, start by placing a layer of smashed avocado on each warmed tortilla, followed by a generous scoop of the slaw. Add the cooked shrimp on top, then sprinkle with Cotija cheese. Finish with lime wedges and a drizzle of the reserved sauce for extra flavor.

Notes

  • You can use either corn or flour tortillas depending on your preference.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper in the spice mix to control the heat level of the shrimp.
  • For a lighter option, substitute sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt.
  • Make sure to pat shrimp dry for better texture and browning during sautéing.
  • The leftover sauce can be used as a dip for chips or as a dressing for other salads.
  • This recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on the number of servings needed.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/spicy-shrimp-tacos-with-garlic-cilantro-lime-slaw-recipe/