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Delicious fiery shrimp tacos served with fresh toppings

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Spicy Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant and mouthwatering dish combining juicy shrimp, creamy cilantro-lime sauce, and crisp cabbage, all wrapped in warm tortillas.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the shrimp

  • 1 pound large shrimp The star of the dish, providing a delectable and juicy bite.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Adds flavor and helps in cooking.
  • 1 tsp cumin Enhances the shrimp with a hint of spice.
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder Adds gentle heat to the dish.
  • 1 tsp paprika Gives beautiful color and slight sweetness.
  • 1 clove garlic (minced) Fresh garlic adds aromatic perfection.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances the flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp pepper Adds basic seasoning.

For the cilantro-lime sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Serves as the base for the cilantro-lime sauce.
  • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro Adds freshness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Extra garlic for aroma.
  • 2 tbsp lime juice Bright and zesty.

For the coleslaw

  • 1/3 cup chopped scallions Provides mild onion flavor.
  • 3 cups shredded purple or green cabbage Adds crunch and color.

For the salsa

  • 2 medium tomatoes (diced) Brings freshness and sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (roughly chopped) Enhances salsa flavor.
  • 1 tbsp lime juice Adds zesty flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances flavors in salsa.

For assembling

  • 6 small tortillas Holds delicious fillings together.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Marinate the shrimp by placing them in a bowl, drizzling with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkling with cumin, chili powder, paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for about 10 minutes.
  • Prepare the coleslaw by combining shredded cabbage and chopped scallions in a separate bowl. Set aside.
  • Make the cilantro lime sauce by blending mayonnaise, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a food processor until smooth. Pour half over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
  • For the salsa, combine diced tomatoes, diced avocado, finely chopped jalapeno, roughly chopped cilantro, an extra tablespoon of lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir gently.

Cooking

  • Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Add marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
  • Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame for a few seconds on each side.

Assembly

  • To assemble tacos, layer coledslaw, then top with shrimp and salsa. Drizzle with remaining cilantro lime sauce, and serve with lime wedges and sliced jalapenos.

Notes

For extra flavor, let shrimp marinate for 30 minutes. Squeeze fresh lime juice on tacos for brightness. Experiment with different tortillas as desired.
Keyword cilantro lime sauce, Quick Dinner, Salsa, Shrimp, Tacos