Can I use frozen shrimp for cilantro lime shrimp tacos?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture that can affect cooking and texture.

Are cilantro lime shrimp tacos gluten-free?

When made with corn tortillas, these tacos are naturally gluten-free. To accommodate gluten-sensitive diets, avoid using flour tortillas unless certified gluten-free.

What are good vegan alternatives for shrimp in these tacos?

To replicate the flavor and texture, use tofu, jackfruit, or tempeh marinated with lime, cilantro, and spices. These alternatives absorb the marinade well and provide a satisfying bite.

How can I make the tacos spicier?

Add jalapeño slices, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade or top the assembled tacos with spicy salsa to bring extra heat.

How long do leftover tacos last and how should I store them?

Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness. Reheat shrimp gently and warm tortillas separately before assembling.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos With Tangy Garlic Slaw Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 cup oil (olive or other neutral oil)
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
2 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
Juice of 2 limes
1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
1/4 cup water (optional, to thin sauce if needed)
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 to 3 cups shredded green cabbage
8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
2 avocados, smashed or sliced
1/4 cup Cotija cheese
Lime wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Pulse all sauce ingredients in a blender until smooth, thinning with water if desired.
2. Toss shredded cabbage with some sauce to make slaw, reserving extra for tacos.
3. Pat shrimp dry and coat with taco spice mix.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high, sauté shrimp for 5-8 minutes until cooked.
5. Warm tortillas on a skillet or flame for better pliability.
6. Assemble tacos with avocado, slaw, shrimp, and Cotija. Finish with lime and sauce.

Last Step:

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Notes

🦐 Leave tails on shrimp for added flavor and texture, but remove if preferred.
🌿 Sauce doubles as a topping—mix extra into slaw or serve on the side.
🔥 Grill the shrimp for a smoky char and enhance tortillas with open flame warming.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Pescatarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tacos
Calories: 430-480
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: Varies (use low sodium options if needed)
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Protein: N/A
Cholesterol: N/A