Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Introduction: Cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are a refreshing and vibrant twist on traditional taco recipes. The succulent shrimp, marinated in zesty cilantro-lime flavors, is paired perfectly with a rich and creamy slaw, creating a delicious contrast in both texture and taste. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer cookout, or a taco night with friends. It combines bold, tangy flavors with the lightness of seafood for a delightful meal.

The History of Ingredients:

• Shrimp: Shrimp is widely consumed in many coastal cuisines, particularly in regions like Mexico, where seafood is a staple. Shrimp tacos have become popular in various forms, thanks to their quick cooking time and ability to absorb bold flavors.
• Cilantro: Native to the Mediterranean but widely used in Mexican cuisine, cilantro adds a fresh, aromatic touch that elevates many dishes, including shrimp tacos. The herb’s bright flavor pairs beautifully with shrimp.
• Lime: Lime is another quintessential ingredient in Mexican cuisine, contributing acidity and brightness that balance the richness of the shrimp and slaw.
• Slaw: Creamy slaw, made with cabbage and a tangy dressing, is a common accompaniment to seafood tacos. The crunchiness of the cabbage and the smoothness of the dressing create a perfect complement to the shrimp.

Breakdown of Ingredients:

1. For the Shrimp:
   • Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
   • Fresh cilantro
   • Lime juice and zest
   • Garlic
   • Olive oil
   • Chili powder or paprika (for a smoky flavor)
   • Salt and pepper
2. For the Creamy Slaw:
   • Shredded cabbage (green or purple, or a mix)
   • Carrots (shredded for extra color and crunch)
   • Fresh cilantro (for added flavor)
   • Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a creamy base)
   • Lime juice and zest
   • Apple cider vinegar (for acidity)
   • Honey or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)
   • Salt and pepper
3. For the Taco Assembly:
   • Soft corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
   • Avocado (optional for extra creaminess)
   • Fresh radishes (optional, for garnish)
   • Lime wedges (for extra tang)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • In a bowl, combine the shrimp with chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to an hour if time allows).
2. Make the Creamy Slaw:
   • In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
   • In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey (if using). Adjust the consistency with a little water if needed.
   • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well. Add fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp cooks quickly.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle until soft.
   • Place a few shrimp on each tortilla.
   • Top with a generous spoonful of creamy slaw.
   • Optionally, garnish with avocado slices, radishes, and a squeeze of lime.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the tacos immediately, accompanied by extra lime wedges on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Tacos:

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooking will result in tough shrimp.
2. Use Fresh Shrimp: The fresher the shrimp, the better the taste. If possible, choose wild-caught shrimp over farmed varieties.
3. Customize the Slaw: If you prefer a spicier slaw, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
4. Grill the Shrimp: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the shrimp instead of pan-frying them.
5. Tortilla Tip: If you’re using store-bought tortillas, warm them in a skillet before assembling the tacos to make them more pliable and flavorful.

Variations and Customizations:

• Grilled Shrimp: Instead of pan-searing, grill the shrimp for a smokier flavor and charred texture.
• Spicy Slaw: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the creamy slaw for extra heat.
• Vegan Option: Swap the shrimp for grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu, marinated in a similar cilantro-lime mixture.
• Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple to the slaw for a fruity, tropical flavor that pairs well with the shrimp.
• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value: Shrimp tacos are a healthy option when made with lean, high-quality ingredients. Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that is also a good source of essential nutrients such as iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. The creamy slaw, if made with Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative, provides healthy fats and fiber from the cabbage and carrots.

• Shrimp: Low in calories, high in protein, and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and key vitamins and minerals.
• Cabbage and Carrots: High in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins (A, C, K).
• Greek Yogurt or Mayo: Provides creaminess without the heavy fat content of sour cream or traditional mayo if using a healthier option.

Nutritional Estimate (for one taco with shrimp and slaw):

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 4g

To make the dish even lighter, opt for grilled shrimp and use a lighter slaw dressing (e.g., Greek yogurt with a little vinegar for tang).

FAQ

1. Can I make these tacos ahead of time? The shrimp should be cooked fresh for the best texture, but you can prepare the slaw in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before serving.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and cooking them.
3. Can I make the slaw without mayonnaise? Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette for a healthier slaw dressing without mayonnaise.
4. What can I serve with these tacos? These shrimp tacos pair well with a side of rice, black beans, or grilled vegetables. A simple avocado salad would also complement the flavors nicely.
5. Are these tacos gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, these tacos can be made gluten-free.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Slaw

Cilantro lime shrimp tacos with creamy slaw are a refreshing and vibrant twist on traditional taco recipes. The succulent shrimp, marinated in zesty cilantro-lime flavors, is paired perfectly with a rich and creamy slaw, creating a delicious contrast in both texture and taste. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer cookout, or a taco night with friends. It combines bold, tangy flavors with the lightness of seafood for a delightful meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

• For the Shrimp Marinade:
• 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
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• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Creamy Slaw:
• 2 cups shredded cabbage green or a mix of green and purple
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tacos:
• 8 small corn tortillas
• Lime wedges for garnish
• Extra cilantro for garnish
• Optional toppings: sliced avocado salsa, crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Shrimp Marinade:
• Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the shrimp to marinate and absorb the flavors.
• Make the Creamy Slaw:
• Mix the Slaw Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
• Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss until well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper to your preference. Refrigerate the slaw until ready to serve.
• Cook the Shrimp:
• Cook the Shrimp: Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them.
• Remove from Heat: Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
• Warm the Tortillas:
• Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp are cooking, warm the tortillas. You can heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds until soft and pliable.
• Assemble the Tacos:
• Assemble the Tacos: To assemble the tacos, place a warm tortilla on a plate. Add 4-5 shrimp to the center of the tortilla. Top with a generous amount of creamy slaw.
• Garnish and Serve: Garnish the tacos with extra cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and any additional toppings you like such as sliced avocado, salsa, or crumbled queso fresco.