Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

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Shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw are tasty, fresh, and simple to make. They bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Juicy shrimp, well-seasoned, come with a fresh, tangy slaw and warm tortillas. Together, they make a dish you can’t resist. These tacos are perfect for Taco Tuesday or a weekend treat! They’ll soon be a family favorite.

Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.

  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and wholesome ingredients.

  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level, toppings, and slaw ingredients to fit your taste.

  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a gathering, these tacos are always a hit.

Ingredients List

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1/2 tsp cumin

  • 1/2 tsp paprika

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Cabbage Slaw:

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage (purple or green)

  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots

  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • 1/2 tsp honey

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas

  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)

  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • Lime wedges for serving

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 20 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Slaw

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined. Set aside.

2. Season and Cook the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and cooked through. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp.

3. Warm the Tortillas

Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Tacos

Place a scoop of cabbage slaw on each tortilla, followed by cooked shrimp. Add sliced avocado, crumbled cotija cheese, and jalapeños if desired. Serve with lime wedges.

Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works too—just make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking.

  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They only need a few minutes to cook. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery.

  • Make the Slaw in Advance: Letting the slaw sit for 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

  • Warm the Tortillas: Heating the tortillas enhances their flavor and makes them pliable.

You Can Try These Different Variations

  • Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Add extra cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.

  • Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos: Sauté shrimp in garlic butter instead of olive oil.

  • Mango Salsa Addition: Replace the cabbage slaw with a fresh mango salsa.

  • Creamy Avocado Sauce: Blend avocado, lime juice, and sour cream for a creamy drizzle.

  • Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Instead of pan-frying, grill shrimp for a smoky flavor.

What to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

  • Mexican Rice

  • Black Beans

  • Corn on the Cob

  • Chips and Guacamole

  • Fresh Pico de Gallo

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Sugar: 3g

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them in cold water for about 15 minutes before cooking.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat shrimp in a skillet for a few minutes before serving.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Yes! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What’s the Best Tortilla for Shrimp Tacos?

Corn tortillas give an authentic taste, while flour tortillas offer a softer texture. Use whichever you prefer!

Conclusion

Shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw are an easy, flavorful meal that brings a taste of the coast to your table. With juicy shrimp, crunchy slaw, and warm tortillas, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit! Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, they’re sure to impress. Try out different variations and make them your own.