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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw

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These spicy shrimp tacos are fast, fresh, and full of vibrant flavor. Juicy, seasoned shrimp are pan-seared to perfection, then wrapped in warm tortillas with creamy avocado and a zesty garlic cilantro lime slaw that adds the perfect cooling contrast.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 green onions
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
  • 2 ripe avocados, sliced or mashed
  • Crumbled Cotija cheese (optional)
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, green onions, cilantro, garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp salt, lime juice, and sour cream or yogurt. Blend until mostly smooth to make the garlic cilantro lime sauce.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss shredded cabbage with a few tablespoons of the sauce to create the slaw. Reserve remaining sauce for drizzling.
  3. Pat the shrimp dry and season with chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, and sea salt.
  4. Heat 1–2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 5–8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until cooked through and slightly crisp at the edges. Remove from heat.
  5. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or oven.
  6. Assemble each taco by spreading mashed avocado on a tortilla, adding a portion of slaw, and a few shrimp. Top with Cotija cheese if using and drizzle with reserved sauce.
  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to sour cream.
  • To make it dairy-free, substitute with plant-based yogurt or cashew cream.
  • Control the spice level by adjusting cayenne or chili powder.
  • Swap shrimp for white fish, chicken, or tofu if desired.
  • Store components separately for up to 3 days; assemble fresh.

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