Shrimp Tacos Cabbage Slaw Lime

The first time I made these shrimp tacos was on a Tuesday after work, I was exhausted but craving something that felt like vacation food. My husband walked in, smelled the spices hitting the hot pan, and immediately asked if we were eating at a beachside cantina instead of our tiny kitchen.

Last summer, we served these at a backyard dinner party and our friend Mark literally asked if he could take home the leftover lime crema in a tiny container. I've never seen someone so excited about taco sauce.

Ingredients

• Raw medium shrimp (500 g): I learned to pat them completely dry with paper towels before seasoning, otherwise they steam instead of sear
• Chili powder and smoked paprika: This combination creates that beautiful reddish char that makes restaurant tacos look so gorgeous
• Green and red cabbage: Using both colors makes the tacos pop visually, plus the slight flavor difference adds depth
• Mayonnaise and Greek yogurt: The mayo gives richness while Greek yogurt adds tang, my favorite slaw dressing ratio
• Lime (whole fruit): You'll need zest for the crema and fresh juice for both the slaw and final squeezing
• Corn tortillas: I warm them directly over a gas flame for those authentic charred spots, though a dry skillet works too

Instructions

Marinate the shrimp:

Toss the peeled shrimp with olive oil and all the spices until every piece is evenly coated. Let them sit while you prep everything else, about 15 minutes, so the flavors really sink in.

Mix the crunchy slaw:

Combine both cabbages, the carrot, and cilantro in a large bowl. Whisk the mayo, yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper together, then pour over the vegetables and toss until everything glistens.

Whip up the lime crema:

Mix the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. This stuff is liquid gold, I promise you'll want to put it on everything.

Sear the shrimp:

Get your skillet ripping hot over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side until they're pink and have gorgeous dark spots.

Build your tacos:

Spread lime crema on warm tortillas, pile on slaw, arrange 3-4 shrimp on top, then finish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime. Do not skip that final lime squeeze.

Pin it

These tacos became our Friday night tradition after a particularly long week when nothing went right except dinner.

Making These Your Own

I've tried adding mango or pineapple to the slaw when sweet corn is in season, and the bright fruit plays beautifully against the smoky shrimp.

The Perfect Shrimp Secret

My fishmonger told me to look for shrimp that smell like the ocean, not ammonia, and to buy frozen if fresh isn't available the same day they were caught.

Serving Like a Pro

Set everything out in separate bowls and let people build their own tacos, the way my family does at our taco night gatherings.

• Keep the tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel so they stay warm throughout the meal
• Have extra lime wedges on hand because someone will always want more
• Double the lime crema if you're serving guests who love sauce as much as I do

Pin it

Somehow eating these with your hands makes everything taste better, or maybe it's just that lime crema talking.

Recipe FAQs

→ How should the shrimp be cooked for best texture?

Sauté or grill the shrimp over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred for a juicy, tender bite.

→ What ingredients give the cabbage slaw its bright flavor?

The slaw combines shredded green and red cabbage, julienned carrot, fresh cilantro, and a dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and honey, delivering crispness and subtle tang.

→ Can the lime crema be made ahead of time?

Yes, mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime zest, juice, and salt can be prepared in advance and stored chilled until serving.

→ Are there options to make the dish gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas to keep the dish free from gluten, ensuring safe enjoyment for those with intolerance.

→ What garnishes enhance the overall flavor?

Fresh cilantro leaves, slices of jalapeño, and lime wedges add fresh herbaceous notes, gentle heat, and brightness, balancing the rich shrimp and creamy elements.