Save to Pinterest These shrimp tacos feature tender, spice-seasoned shrimp cooked quickly and layered in warm tortillas with a crisp, tangy cabbage slaw. The slaw combines shredded green and red cabbage, red onion, cilantro, and a creamy dressing made of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with a hint of lime and honey. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish balances fresh, vibrant flavors with ease, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Optional jalapeños add a touch of heat, and lime wedges bring brightness to each bite.
The first time I made shrimp tacos was on a Tuesday after a friend casually mentioned that lime juice makes everything better. She was right, and now this recipe lives in my permanent rotation.
Last summer I made these for a backyard dinner and my brother who claims to hate seafood went back for thirds. The slaw converts skeptics every time.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined saves precious time and lets the marinade work its way into every crevice
- Chili powder and cumin: This earthy combo gives the shrimp that authentic taco truck flavor without overpowering the sweet seafood
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle depth and a gorgeous golden red color that makes the tacos look irresistible
- Green and red cabbage: The dual colors make the slaw beautiful and the texture stays crunchy even after dressing
- Lime juice: Fresh is non negotiable here as it brightens the shrimp and cuts through the creamy slaw dressing
- Mayonnaise and Greek yogurt: The blend gives you tang and creaminess without feeling heavy
- Honey: Just enough to balance the acid and tie all the slaw flavors together
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp with olive oil spices and lime juice then let them sit for 10 minutes while you make the slaw
- Prepare the slaw:
- Whisk the mayonnaise yogurt lime juice honey salt and pepper then toss with both cabbages onion and cilantro until everything is coated
- Cook the shrimp:
- Heat your skillet until hot then cook the shrimp in a single layer for just 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque
- Warm the tortillas:
- Give them a quick turn in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable and ready to fill
- Assemble the tacos:
- Pile the warm shrimp into tortillas top with a generous heap of slaw and finish with lime wedges jalapeños or extra cilantro
Save to Pinterest These tacos have become my go to when friends drop by unexpectedly because they look impressive but secretly come together in a flash. The colors alone make people happy before they even take a bite.
Make It Your Own
Ive tried swapping in sliced radishes or jicama for extra crunch and both work beautifully. Sometimes I throw in a handful of diced mango when sweet corn is in season.
Serving Suggestions
A cold beer or crisp white wine is perfect alongside but honestly these tacos shine with just ice water on a hot day. The contrast of temperatures is half the joy.
Storage and Prep
The slaw actually improves after a few hours in the fridge so feel free to make it in the morning. Cooked shrimp keeps well but texture is best when served immediately.
- Squeeze fresh lime right before serving for maximum brightness
- Warm your tortillas twice for extra pliability
- Keep the components separate until youre ready to eat
Save to Pinterest Taco night should feel like a celebration not a chore and this recipe delivers exactly that.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the shrimp marinate?
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Marinate the shrimp for 10 minutes to allow the spices and lime juice to infuse them with flavor without overpowering their natural taste.
- → Can I use other types of tortillas?
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Yes, both corn and flour tortillas work well. Warm them before assembling for the best texture and flavor.
- → What gives the slaw its tangy flavor?
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The tanginess comes from lime juice combined with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, balanced by honey to add a subtle sweetness.
- → How can I add more spice to these tacos?
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Adding cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade or serving with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce will increase the heat level.
- → Is it possible to make the slaw lighter?
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Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with extra Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier texture without losing creaminess.
