These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp mixed with a zesty creamy Sriracha sauce are topped with a fresh cilantro lime slaw. Yum!
Who doesn’t love a good taco night? I could eat these tacos all week! The crunchy slaw adds a nice twist, and it’s a fun meal to share with friends. 🌮
Making these tacos is a breeze—just cook the shrimp, whip up the sauce, and toss together the slaw. You’ll have a tasty dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are best for this recipe. If you can’t find shrimp, you could use chicken or tofu for a different twist.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring flavor to the shrimp. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or even a pinch of liquid smoke can do the trick. Adjust cayenne for your heat level!
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead or a vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
Coleslaw Mix: Shredded cabbage and carrots are convenient, but you can make your own slaw with fresh cabbage or even use broccoli slaw for a crunchier texture.
Tortillas: Small corn or flour tortillas work well. If you want a gluten-free option, look for corn tortillas or lettuce wraps for a fresh take.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky. Overcook them and they’ll be tough! Make sure to follow these steps:
- Start with medium-high heat; this helps to cook shrimp quickly without drying them out.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque.
- Leave some space between shrimp in the pan to ensure they cook evenly.
This way, your shrimp will be juicy and flavorful every time!
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sriracha Sauce and Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tbsp Sriracha (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 6-8 small tortillas
- Lime wedges
- Additional cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes for marinating and cooking the shrimp. So, in total, you should set aside around 30-35 minutes to enjoy these delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Add the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated in the spicy mix. Cover and let them marinate for 15-20 minutes to soak up the flavors.
2. Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
While the shrimp are marinating, grab a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more Sriracha! Once combined, set the sauce aside.
3. Make the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped cilantro, and thinly sliced red onion. Squeeze in the lime juice, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the slaw is well mixed and coated.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat up a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are slightly charred. This will give them a delicious flavor and perfectly cooked texture!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or the microwave until soft. Take a tortilla and fill it with a portion of spicy shrimp, top it with a generous amount of the cilantro lime slaw, and drizzle with the creamy Sriracha sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro, then serve with lime wedges on the side.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately while they’re warm and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors! Pair them with a refreshing drink for the perfect meal.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry to ensure they cook nicely!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo. These options will give you a similar creamy texture, but may alter the flavor slightly—feel free to add more lime juice or Sriracha to balance it out!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Leftover tacos can be tricky, but store the components separately in airtight containers. The shrimp and slaw will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet, and assemble your tacos fresh when ready to eat!
Can I Make the Slaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cilantro lime slaw a few hours in advance! Just keep it covered in the fridge. However, if making it the day before, consider adding the dressing just before serving to keep the cabbage crisp!
