Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of zesty cilantro lime shrimp and cool, creamy slaw wrapped in a warm tortilla. These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw are not just another taco recipe—they’re a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, summer cookouts, or when you’re craving something fresh yet satisfying.
In this post, we’ll cover:
✅ The secret to perfectly seasoned, juicy shrimp
✅ How to make the creamiest, crunchiest slaw
✅ Pro tips for customizing your tacos (spicy, grilled, or vegan!)
✅ The best sides and drinks to pair with them
“These tacos disappeared faster than I could take photos!” — A happy home cook
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Before we dive into the ingredients, here’s why this Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos recipe stands out:
🔥 Quick & Easy – Ready in 25 minutes (15 mins prep + 10 mins cooking)
🌮 Meal-Prep Friendly – Shrimp and slaw store well for leftovers
🥑 Customizable – Adjust heat levels, swap proteins, or go low-carb
🍤 Restaurant-Quality at Home – Bold flavors rivaling your favorite taco spot
Ingredients
(Serves 4 | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins)
For the Zesty Shrimp:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medium shrimp (peeled/deveined) | 1 lb (450g) | Wild-caught preferred |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | Avocado oil works too |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Fresh is best |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp | Adjust for heat |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | Adds earthy depth |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | For smoky notes |
| Lime zest + juice | From 2 limes | Key for brightness |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) | ½ cup | Plus extra for garnish |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
For the Creamy Slaw:
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (mix green/purple for color)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for richer taste)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey (balances acidity)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Essential Toppings:
▶ Sliced avocado
▶ Crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
▶ Pickled red onions
▶ Lime wedges
▶ Hot sauce (try Cholula or sriracha)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Shrimp (5 mins)
In a bowl, combine:
- Shrimp + olive oil
- Minced garlic + spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika)
- Lime zest/juice + cilantro
- Salt & pepper
*Pro Tip: Let marinate 10-15 mins (up to 30 mins) for deeper flavor.*
2. Make the Slaw (5 mins)
Whisk together:
- Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, vinegar, garlic powder, salt/pepper
Fold in shredded cabbage and cilantro. Chill until serving (gets better as it sits!)
3. Cook the Shrimp (5-7 mins)
- Heat skillet over medium-high.
- Add shrimp in single layer (don’t overcrowd!).
- Cook 2-3 mins per side until pink and slightly charred.
Alternative: Grill on skewers for smoky flavor!
4. Assemble Tacos (3 mins)
- Warm tortillas (char over gas flame for 10 secs/side).
- Layer with slaw → shrimp → toppings.
- Finish with extra cilantro and lime squeeze.
5 Game-Changing Variations
- Spicy Version
- Add 1 minced jalapeño to shrimp marinade
- Drizzle with chipotle crema *(mix ¼ cup mayo + 1 tsp chipotle powder)*
- Grilled Option
- Skewer shrimp and grill 2 mins/side
- Brush tortillas with oil and grill briefly
- Vegan Swap
- Replace shrimp with marinated jackfruit or cauliflower florets
- Use dairy-free yogurt in slaw
- Tropical Twist
- Top with mango-pineapple salsa (diced mango + pineapple + red onion + lime)
- Low-Carb
- Serve in butter lettuce cups instead of tortillas
Expert Tips for Perfect Tacos
✔ Don’t overcook shrimp – They turn rubbery past 3 mins/side.
✔ Double the slaw – Great for next-day salads or fish tacos.
✔ Meal prep like a pro – Marinate shrimp and chop slaw veggies ahead.
✔ Texture matters – Add crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these tacos with:
- Drinks: Classic margarita or spicy mango mocktail
- Sides: Mexican street corn or black bean salad
- Dessert: Lime sorbet or churros
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw overnight in fridge or under cold running water. Pat dry before marinating.
Q: How long do leftovers keep?
A: Store shrimp and slaw separately for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp gently in skillet.
Q: What if I hate cilantro?
A: Substitute with parsley or omit entirely.
Final Thoughts
These Zesty Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw deliver:
✨ Bright, fresh flavors from lime and cilantro
✨ Contrasting textures – juicy shrimp + crunchy slaw
✨ Endless customization for dietary needs
“Made these for Taco Tuesday—my family demanded I add them to the regular rotation!”
Ready to try? Pin this recipe or save it for your next fiesta!
Loved this recipe? Explore more:
→ 10 Best Margaritas for Taco Night
→ Grilled Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
→ Vegan Jackfruit Carnitas