Shrimp Tacos Cabbage Slaw Lime

The first time I made these shrimp tacos, it was a Tuesday night and I was craving something that tasted like vacation. My kitchen ended up smelling like a beachside taco stand, and I realized weeknight dinners could actually transport you somewhere else entirely.

I served these at a small dinner party last summer, and my friend who claims she hates seafood went back for thirds. There is something about the combination of smoky spices and bright lime that makes people forget they are eating something so healthy.

Ingredients

• Raw medium shrimp: Peeled and deveined saves so much time, and letting them marinate while you prep everything else makes the flavor really sink in
• Chili powder and smoked paprika: This duo creates this gorgeous color and gives the shrimp that street taco authenticity
• Cumin: Just half a teaspoon adds that earthy backbone that ties all the spices together
• Green and red cabbage: Using both makes the slaw look stunning and the slight difference in crunch keeps every bite interesting
• Greek yogurt and lime: This combination creates a crema that is tangy but still rich enough to feel indulgent
• Corn tortillas: Warm them directly over a gas flame if you have it, those little char spots are everything

Instructions

Marinate the shrimp:

Toss the shrimp with olive oil and all those spices until they are evenly coated. Let them hang out while you make the slaw, this short rest makes such a difference in flavor.

Make the slaw:

Whisk together the mayo, yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt and pepper until smooth. Toss it with the shredded cabbage mix and cilantro, then let it hang out in the fridge to get all those flavors friendly with each other.

Whisk up the crema:

Mix the sour cream or yogurt with lime zest, lime juice, and salt until it is silky smooth. This stuff is liquid gold, so maybe make a little extra.

Cook the shrimp:

Get your skillet hot over medium high heat and cook the shrimp in a single layer. Two to three minutes per side until they are pink and have some nice charred spots, do not overcook them or they will turn rubbery.

Assemble the tacos:

Spread lime crema on warm tortillas, pile on the slaw, add those gorgeous shrimp, and hit them with extra cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime. Serve them immediately while everything is still warm and crisp.

Pin Recipe

These tacos have become my go to when friends come over because they feel fancy without requiring any actual effort. Everyone assembles their own and the table gets loud and happy real fast.

Make Ahead Magic

The slaw actually gets better after a few hours in the fridge, so I often make it in the afternoon. The shrimp marinade works well too, but do not add the lime juice to the crema until right before serving or it might get too thin.

Spice It Up

If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the shrimp marinade or slice some jalapeños really thin for topping. The crema helps cool everything down, so do not be afraid to play with fire a little.

Perfect Pairings

A cold Mexican lager or classic margarita is obvious, but an icy sparkling water with lime works just as well. A side of black beans or Mexican rice makes it a full meal without much extra work.

• Warm your tortillas over an open flame if you can
• Keep the shrimp moving in the pan so they cook evenly
• Serve extra lime wedges on the side, people love squeezing their own

Pin Recipe

These shrimp tacos are the kind of dinner that makes regular Tuesdays feel like tiny celebrations.

Recipe FAQs

→ How should I season the shrimp for best flavor?

Use a mix of chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness and add a mild smoky heat.

→ Can I prepare the cabbage slaw in advance?

Yes, the slaw can be mixed a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated to allow the flavors to meld, but toss again before serving.

→ What type of tortillas work best for this dish?

Warm small corn or flour tortillas are ideal; corn offers a traditional flavor while flour provides a softer texture.

→ How can I make the lime crema taste more vibrant?

Be sure to use fresh lime zest and juice, mixing it well with sour cream or Greek yogurt for balanced tanginess.

→ Are there suitable substitutions for the creamy dressing?

Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise or sour cream to make the slaw and crema lighter while still creamy and flavorful.

→ Can I add heat to this dish?

Yes, sprinkling sliced jalapeños on top or adding cayenne to the shrimp marinade increases spiciness according to your preference.