Spicy Shrimp Tacos Garlic Cilantro (Printable)
Seasoned shrimp in warm tortillas with creamy garlic cilantro lime slaw for a zesty taco night dinner.
# What You'll Need:
→ Spicy Shrimp
01 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 tsp chili powder
05 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - Juice of 1 lime
→ Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw
11 - 3 cups shredded cabbage (green or mix of green and red)
12 - 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
13 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
14 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
15 - 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
16 - 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
17 - 1 clove garlic, minced
18 - 1 tsp honey
19 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Assembly
20 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
21 - 1 ripe avocado, sliced
22 - Extra cilantro and lime wedges, for garnish
# Directions:
01 - In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Toss thoroughly until every shrimp is evenly coated. Let marinate while preparing the slaw.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
04 - Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until pliable.
05 - Spread a generous layer of the garlic cilantro lime slaw onto each warm tortilla. Top with the spicy shrimp, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of extra cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The slaw doubles as a cooling counterpoint and a flavor bomb all on its own.
- Everything comes together in under thirty minutes, which makes it perfect for chaotic weeknights.
02 -
- Do not overcook the shrimp, even thirty seconds too long turns them rubbery and sad.
- Making the slaw ahead of time actually improves it, the cabbage softens and drinks up the dressing.
03 -
- Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels before seasoning, moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
- A pinch of cayenne in the slaw dressing creates a sneaky back heat that people love without expecting.