Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

There’s something magical about shrimp tacos, especially when they’re infused with the bright, zesty flavors of cilantro and lime. These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are the perfect combination of fresh, tangy, and savory, making them an irresistible meal for taco nights, summer gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. It’s easy to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality dish that bursts with flavor in every bite. The shrimp are seasoned with a blend of spices, then sautéed until tender and juicy. A squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of cilantro bring the whole dish together, creating a taco experience that is light, refreshing, and packed with deliciousness.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fresh twist on taco night, these Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos will quickly become a favorite. They’re great for entertaining guests, as they come together in no time and look as beautiful as they taste. Plus, the combination of warm tortillas, creamy toppings, and perfectly cooked shrimp makes every bite a delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Fresh Flavors: The zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and tender shrimp create a bold and refreshing taste.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the toppings to match your personal preferences.
• Light Yet Satisfying: These tacos are full of flavor but won’t leave you feeling overly full.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Taco Tuesday, a casual family dinner, or a summer cookout, these shrimp tacos are always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Tacos:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Extra cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them get a nice sear when they cook. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix well to coat all the shrimp evenly. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Lime Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. This sauce adds a delicious tangy contrast to the spiced shrimp. Set it aside in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Once done, remove the shrimp from the heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

For the best tacos, warm your tortillas before assembling. You can do this by heating them in a dry skillet for about 20-30 seconds on each side, or by wrapping them in foil and placing them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. If you love a little char on your tortillas, you can even warm them directly over an open flame on a gas stove for a few seconds.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Now comes the fun part—putting everything together! Start by placing a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Add a few shrimp, then top with diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices. Drizzle with the creamy lime sauce and garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these tacos immediately while they’re warm and fresh. Pair them with a side of rice, beans, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro make a big difference in flavor, so try to use them instead of bottled alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Warm the Tortillas: This helps them stay soft and pliable, making the tacos easier to eat.
• Customize the Heat: If you like extra spice, add more cayenne or top the tacos with jalapeños.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or a drizzle of avocado sauce.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using corn tortillas)

Notes

• If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by running them under cold water for a few minutes.
• For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of cooking them on the stovetop.
• Leftover shrimp can be used in salads, rice bowls, or even a shrimp taco salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes.

What’s the best way to reheat shrimp tacos?

Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and toppings ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh to keep them juicy. If you need to save time, marinate the shrimp in advance and cook them just before serving.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
• Freeze: While fresh shrimp tacos are best, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Related Recipes

If you loved these shrimp tacos, here are a few more taco-inspired dishes you might enjoy:

• Bang Bang Chicken – Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistible

Conclusion

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are a delicious and easy way to bring bold, fresh flavors to your table. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your tortillas, fire up the skillet, and enjoy taco night like never before!

Print