These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp sizzled in spices sit in warm tortillas, topped with a creamy Sriracha sauce and zesty cilantro lime slaw. Yum!
Every bite is a little party in your mouth! 🎉 I love how the crunchy slaw and spicy shrimp create a perfect combo. They’re great for a quick dinner or taco night with friends!
Making these tacos is a breeze! Just cook the shrimp, whip up the sauce, and toss the slaw. I often enjoy them while watching my favorite show. So easy and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for this recipe as it will cook quickly and absorb the spices well. If fresh is not available, frozen shrimp works too—just ensure they are thawed properly before cooking.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat is great for marinating the shrimp. If you prefer, avocado oil or grapeseed oil can be good alternatives due to their high smoke points.
Chili Powder and Cayenne Pepper: These spices give the shrimp their kick. If you want it less spicy, reduce the cayenne or swap it for smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo works well in the sauce, but you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or an egg-free dressing like vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs.
Cabbage: While green and red cabbage add nice contrast, you could substitute with coleslaw mix or even kale. Just make sure to thinly slice any substitutes for better texture.
How Do You Make Sure Your Shrimp Are Cooked Perfectly?
The key to tender, juicy shrimp is to avoid overcooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding shrimp. Medium-high heat works best.
- Cook the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side. They will turn opaque and curl slightly when done.
- Remove them from the skillet promptly to prevent further cooking. If they sit too long in the pan, they’ll become rubbery.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sriracha Sauce and Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spicy Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 6-8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes total to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 15 minutes for prepping and marinating the shrimp, plus another 15 minutes to cook everything and assemble your tacos. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spicy Shrimp:
In a large bowl, mix the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the shrimp are well coated with the spices. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
2. Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice until it’s smooth and well blended. Taste it and adjust the Sriracha if you want more heat. Set this sauce aside for later!
3. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
In another bowl, mix the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together well. Allow this slaw to sit for a few minutes, so the flavors can blend beautifully.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred. This step adds amazing flavor!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a dry skillet, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and pliable for easy assembly. You can also wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven if you prefer!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab a tortilla and place a generous amount of the spicy shrimp on top. Follow it with a scoop of the cilantro lime slaw, then drizzle with the creamy Sriracha sauce. It’s all about balance and flavor!
7. Serve:
Garnish your tacos with lime wedges and extra cilantro if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy these flavorful tacos with friends and family! They are perfect for sharing!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just remember to thaw them first for the best texture. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a bowl of cold water. Make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise for the Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or use sour cream for a similar creaminess. If you want a non-dairy option, try using avocado or a vegan mayonnaise alternative for a rich flavor in your sauce.
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cilantro lime slaw up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making the slaw even more delicious when you’re ready to serve!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp, slaw, and tortillas separately in airtight containers. The shrimp can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the slaw will be best if consumed within 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, and warm the tortillas briefly before serving again!
