Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Juice of 2 limes; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw! When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to combine the heat of succulent shrimp with a refreshing zesty slaw. The result was a perfect balance of spice and crunch that makes these tacos a must-try. Each bite bursts with freshness, thanks to the crunch of cabbage and the zing of lime juice. Whether it's a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos will surely impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:38:28.096Z

Creating these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw was a delightful adventure for me in the kitchen. The combination of fresh ingredients, particularly the crispy cabbage and the spicy shrimp, was something I wanted to capture in each bite. I experimented with different seasonings and settled on a blend that allows the natural flavors of the shrimp to shine through without being overpowered by heat.

One tip I learned during my process is to marinate the shrimp briefly before cooking. Just 15 minutes in a zesty lime and spice mixture not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the shrimp tender and juicy. Pairing that with a creamy, tangy slaw adds an amazing textural contrast that takes these tacos to the next level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfect blend of spice and freshness with every bite.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile—great for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Marinating the Shrimp

Marinating the shrimp is a crucial step that infuses them with bold flavors. The combination of olive oil, chili powder, and cumin not only enhances the taste but also helps to keep the shrimp moist during cooking. Aim for even coating to ensure all shrimp are packed with flavor. If you're short on time, let them marinate for at least 10 minutes, but for maximum effect, a full 15 minutes is ideal. This will allow the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a delightful heat that balances beautifully with the slaw.

Always choose high-quality shrimp for the best results. Look for shrimp that are firm, glossy, and have a mild ocean scent. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure they're completely thawed before marinating. Avoid overcooking the shrimp as they can quickly become rubbery; they should turn a bright pink and opaque in the center—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat.

Creating the Perfect Slaw

The slaw provides a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy shrimp, making it essential to your tacos. Fresh lime juice is key in balancing the richness from the shrimp and mayonnaise while adding a zesty flavor. If you prefer a creamier slaw, you can adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to your taste, but be careful not to drown the other flavors. Additionally, feel free to add thinly sliced jalapeños for an extra kick or replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

For best results, mix the slaw just before you're ready to serve. This keeps the cabbage crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, keep the slaw in the refrigerator and mix the cabbage and carrots with the dressing shortly before serving to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Taco Assembly Tips

When assembling the tacos, ensure your tortillas are warm and pliable. This prevents them from cracking and makes them easier to fold. You can warm them by lightly toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. If you prefer, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm. This step enhances the overall texture of your taco experience.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or crumbled queso fresca for extra richness. Experimenting with additional toppings can change the flavor profile and make every taco unique, so don’t hesitate to customize based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos:

For the Tacos

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 small corn or flour tortillas

For the Slaw

2 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 2 limes
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Salt and pepper, to taste

Once you have everything ready, you're just about set to make your tacos!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring your tacos to life:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Make the Slaw

In another bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and cooked through.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a skillet. Layer the slaw on each tortilla, top with shrimp, and serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice right before serving and consider adding sliced avocado for creaminess.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make these spicy shrimp tacos ahead of time, store the marinated shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers. The shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. However, for the best taste and texture, it's preferable to cook them fresh. The slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated, but remember to mix in the dressing shortly before serving to keep the cabbage crisp.

If you have leftovers, the shrimp can be frozen for future use. I recommend freezing them raw before cooking and storing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceeding to cook them following the same steps outlined in the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These spicy shrimp tacos shine when paired with refreshing side dishes. Consider a light quinoa salad or a fruit salsa that features mango or pineapple to enhance the tropical flavors of the meal. A simple cucumber salad can also add a delightful crunch and cooling contrast to the dish.

Don’t forget to serve your tacos with lime wedges to squeeze over the top—this not only enhances the flavor but can also cut through the spice of the shrimp. Offering a selection of hot sauces for those who like it even spicier is a great way to allow guests to customize their tacos to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for the tortillas?

Lettuce wraps or whole grain tortillas work great as alternatives.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Feel free to add more chili powder or diced jalapeños to the shrimp marinade if you prefer more heat.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Just mix it up and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the tacos.