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Quick Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Close-up of three perfectly grilled shrimp taco shells filled with cabbage slaw, topped with seasoned shrimp, crema, and herbs.

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Make these easy shrimp tacos in under 30 minutes. This recipe features zesty cilantro lime shrimp, a fresh creamy slaw, and a bright lime crema for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • For the Creamy Slaw:
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage mix
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the Lime Crema:
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the slaw and crema.
  2. Make the Creamy Slaw: In a separate bowl, whisk together the shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, lime juice, sugar, and salt. Mix well until the cabbage is coated. Set aside.
  3. Make the Lime Crema: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream (or yogurt), lime juice, lime zest, and salt. Stir until smooth.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
  5. Add the zest: Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately pour the 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice and the 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro over the hot shrimp. Toss to coat.
  6. Warm the tortillas: Warm the tortillas according to package directions, either in a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave.
  7. Assemble the tacos: Fill each warm tortilla with a portion of the cilantro lime shrimp. Top generously with the creamy slaw and drizzle with the lime crema. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning mix.
  • If you prefer an air fryer method, toss the seasoned shrimp with 1 teaspoon of oil and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
  • You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the crema for a lighter option.

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