These spicy shrimp tacos are a burst of flavors! Juicy shrimp meet a creamy sriracha sauce, topped with zesty cilantro lime slaw for a crunchy finish.
Who knew tacos could be this fun? I love how the creamy sauce adds a kick, and the slaw gives a lovely crunch. Perfect for taco night—or any night! 🌮
Making these tacos is a breeze! I often serve them with fresh lime wedges for an extra zing, making every bite a delightful treat that friends and family love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for these tacos due to their meaty texture. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute with chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chili Powder: This spice adds warmth and depth. If you want a different flavor, smoked paprika is a good alternative. Just remember, it has its own unique smokiness!
Sriracha: A key for that spicy kick! If you like it milder, use less or swap for a milder hot sauce. You could also go for a creamy version of hot sauce if you’re all about that texture.
Cabbage: Both green and red cabbage create a nice crunch. If one type is harder to find, feel free to use just one kind or try coleslaw mix for convenience!
Tortillas: Both flour and corn tortillas work great here. If you’re gluten-free, opt for corn tortillas. They will hold up just as well!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Shrimp for Tacos?
Cooking shrimp can be quick, but getting it just right takes practice. Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp for your tacos:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp. A well-heated pan ensures a nice char!
- Cook shrimp in a single layer to avoid steaming them. This helps them get crispy edges.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. They turn pink when done, so watch carefully!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll lose that coveted char. If you have a lot, cook in batches!
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sriracha Sauce and Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spicy Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tbsp Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tbsp 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 the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes marinating the shrimp, mixing the sauces and slaw, and cooking. Then, you’ll have your tasty tacos ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by taking a large bowl and mixing together the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once everything is mixed, add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them around until they’re fully coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the sauce and slaw.
2. Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice until it’s all well combined. If you prefer a spicier sauce, feel free to adjust the Sriracha to your taste. Set this aside for later.
3. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper together to create a yummy dressing. Pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything to coat it nicely. Set this slaw aside as well.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re pink and cooked through with a nice char. This should smell amazing!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In another pan or directly over a flame, warm your tortillas until they are pliable, which should take about 15-30 seconds on each side. This makes them easier to fold without tearing.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take each tortilla and place a few shrimp on top. Add a generous amount of the cilantro lime slaw, then drizzle over the creamy Sriracha sauce. If you like, you can garnish with a bit more cilantro for extra flavor.
7. Serve:
Serve your spicy shrimp tacos warm with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the lime juice over your tacos for an extra zesty kick!
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy shrimp tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leaving them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
What if I Don’t Have Cilantro?
No problem! If you’re not a fan of cilantro or don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a different flavor, or simply omit it. The slaw will still be delicious and flavorful without it!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp can last for up to 2 days, while the slaw should be consumed within 1 day to maintain its crispness. Reheat the shrimp gently on the stovetop before assembling your tacos again!
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cilantro lime slaw a few hours or even the day before. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the cabbage from getting soggy. Mix them together right before serving for the best texture!
