Description
These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender, seasoned shrimp cooked to perfection and served with a refreshing cilantro lime sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, these tacos combine the zest of lime, the warmth of chili spices, and the crispness of fresh cabbage and tomatoes for a delightful seafood meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Tacos and Garnishes
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
Cilantro Lime Sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh finish.
- Make the cilantro lime sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lime juice, cilantro, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas gently in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable. This will make them easier to fold and enhance their flavor.
- Assemble the tacos: Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage or slaw mix and diced tomatoes. Drizzle the prepared cilantro lime sauce over the top. Serve immediately, optionally with extra lime wedges for additional zest.
Notes
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the sauce for a lighter option.
- Add sliced avocado or jalapeños to tacos for extra flavor and heat.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- For more smoky flavor, try grilling the shrimp instead of pan-cooking.
