Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 20 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for shrimp); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple); 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for slaw); 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt); 1 tablespoon Sriracha; 6 small corn or flour tortillas; Lime wedges, for serving

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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw is a delectable dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine biting into a warm tortilla overflowing with perfectly seasoned shrimp, crispy slaw, and a drizzle of tangy sauce. This recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavors, with every ingredient complementing the next perfectly. It’s not just about eating; it’s about enjoying every aspect of this culinary creation. You’ll find that making these tacos is a worth-while endeavor, as they are quick and simple, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. The step-by-step approach makes it easy to follow, ensuring you’ll craft these delightful tacos with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw a must-try? First, it boasts easy preparation time – you’ll be able to whip this up in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s family-friendly; everyone from toddlers to adults will enjoy the vibrant flavors and crunchy textures. The recipe requires minimal ingredients, which means you won’t be scouring the grocery store aisles for exotic items. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal option or a traditional dish with a twist, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

20 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, these shrimp bring a juicy texture and seafood flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons olive oil (for shrimp): Adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the shrimp.
1 teaspoon paprika: A smoky element that enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: A warm spice that adds depth and earthiness.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a pleasant aroma and taste.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional): Complements the garlic for more flavor.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple): Offers a crunchy texture and freshness.
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a bold flavor and attractive color.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Essential for that fresh herbal note.
1/2 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced (optional): For those who dare to add a bit more heat.
1 tablespoon olive oil (for slaw): A little richness to balance the slaw.
1 tablespoon honey: A touch of sweetness to cut through the acidity.
2 tablespoons lime juice: Brightens the dish with zesty flavors.
Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning.
1/4 cup ranch dressing (or substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt): Adds creaminess to the tacos.
1 tablespoon Sriracha: For a spicy kick in the sauce, adjustable for your taste.
6 small corn or flour tortillas: The perfect vessel for all these delicious fillings.
Lime wedges, for serving: A refreshing addition to enhance the flavors further.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeno (if you’re feeling adventurous). Drizzle with olive oil, honey, and lime juice. Gently toss to combine, ensuring that all the vegetables are coated uniformly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Season the Shrimp: In a separate bowl, mix the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), black pepper, and kosher salt. Make sure every shrimp is well coated with the spices to ensure robust flavor in every bite.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and Sriracha. Adjust the spiciness to your preference – add more Sriracha if you like it hotter!
Prepare the Tortillas: If you’d like, char the tortillas over an open flame for a smoky flavor and enhanced texture.
Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous serving of shrimp into each tortilla. Top with the cilantro lime slaw, drizzle generously with the Sriracha ranch sauce, and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure your shrimp are fresh and not overcooked, as this can lead to a rubbery texture. Consider marinating the shrimp for about 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavors. If you want to add some crunch, try topping your tacos with crushed tortilla chips or avocado slices. For an even creamier texture, mix some avocado into your slaw or use it as a topping. Lastly, don’t forget to adjust the seasonings to suit your palate – cooking is all about personal preference!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a side can elevate the experience. Consider serving them with a fresh corn salad or a side of black beans for a hearty meal. A light cucumber salad topped with a squeeze of lime can also provide a refreshing contrast to the spices. To drink, consider offering a chilled herbal iced tea or a crisp lemonade to balance the heat and provide a refreshing sip alongside your meal.

Nutritional Information

While the exact calorie count can vary depending on specific portions and variations in the recipe, a typical serving of Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw will be around 400-600 calories per taco with slaw. They provide a great source of protein (thanks to the shrimp), fiber (from the slaw), and healthy fats (via the olive oil). Just keep in mind that if you’re tweaking the dressing or adding extra toppings, the calorie count can increase.

Storing Tips & Variations for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers. The shrimp can last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator, while the slaw should ideally be eaten within 1-2 days for the best crunch. For a healthier twist, you could substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu, or even try using a variety of colorful vegetables to create a vegetarian option. If you want to spice things up further, consider adding your favorite hot sauce into the slaw or opting for spicy corn tortillas.

Conclusion for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Don’t wait to delight your taste buds with these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw. There’s nothing quite like the combination of juicy shrimp, crunchy slaw, and zesty sauce wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Perfect for any day of the week, the straightforward recipe ensures success every time. Gather your ingredients and let the cooking commence—your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be a quick option! Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.
Is it possible to make the slaw in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the slaw a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
Can I substitute the ranch dressing?
Yes, you can substitute ranch dressing with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or any other creamy dressing you prefer!
How can I make these tacos spicier?
You can make them spicier by adding more jalapeno to the slaw, increasing the amount of Sriracha, or adding other spicy ingredients to the shrimp.
What toppings would you recommend for serving?
Additional toppings like sliced avocados, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese can add extra flavor and texture to your tacos!