Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 carrot, grated; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Avocado slices (optional); Extra lime wedges

Highlighted under: World Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp seasoned with bold spices and a refreshing, crunchy slaw creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Eating these tacos instantly transports me to a beachside taco stand! It’s all about balancing the heat from the shrimp with the coolness of the slaw, making each bite a delightful explosion of taste that keeps my taste buds dancing.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:50:28.286Z

When I first tried my hand at making Spicy Shrimp Tacos, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful they could be! I marinated the shrimp in a mix of chili powder, cumin, and lime juice, which truly enhances their natural sweetness while adding a kick. The slaw, made with cabbage and a zesty dressing, complements the spices beautifully—a tip I learned makes all the difference!

One crucial aspect to perfecting these tacos is to cook the shrimp quickly over high heat to achieve that perfect char. It keeps them succulent and prevents them from becoming rubbery. Each taco comes together quickly, and I can't resist an additional squeeze of lime for that refreshing finish!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Perfect blend of spicy and fresh flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for busy nights
Customizable to suit your personal taste
Great for gatherings or a casual dinner

Enhancing the Flavor

The seasoning for the shrimp is crucial for achieving that perfect spicy kick. I recommend using a high-quality chili powder and freshly ground cumin to enhance the depth of flavor. These spices not only provide heat but also contribute earthy undertones that complement the sweetness of the shrimp. If you enjoy a little extra spice, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a chipotle chili powder for a smoky twist.

Marinating the shrimp for at least 10 minutes allows the spices to penetrate the shrimp, making them more flavorful. This brief rest helps the shrimp absorb the lime juice, which tenderizes them while adding zest. If time permits, allowing the shrimp to marinate for up to 30 minutes can deepen the flavor even further, but beware of marinating too long, as the acidity of lime can make them mushy.

Choosing and Preparing the Slaw

The slaw in these tacos plays a vital role in balancing the heat from the shrimp. By combining green and red cabbage, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your dish but also introduce varied textures. Green cabbage offers a slightly sweet taste, while red cabbage adds a peppery crunch. Ensure you slice them thinly for a better mouthfeel and to allow the dressing to coat each piece evenly.

If you’re looking for substitutions, consider adding sliced radishes or jicama to the slaw for a refreshing crunch. You can also swap honey for agave syrup or maple syrup if you prefer a vegan option. Additionally, if you want to add some heat to your slaw, a finely diced jalapeño can contribute a nice kick that pairs well with the shrimp.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 carrot, grated
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

8 small corn tortillas
Avocado slices (optional)
Extra lime wedges

Mix the ingredients thoroughly before starting your tacos!

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp with chili powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Make the Slaw

In another bowl, mix the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, cilantro, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss well and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are opaque and slightly charred.

Warm the Tortillas

In a separate pan, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

On each tortilla, place shrimp and top with slaw. Add avocado if desired and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious tacos!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a diced jalapeño to your slaw. If you like it mild, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before chopping. Don’t skip squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos before eating
it brightens the entire dish!

Serving Suggestions

These tacos can be served with various toppings to enhance their flavor. Add a dollop of creamy avocado sauce or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for extra richness and flavor balance. Fresh mango salsa or a pico de gallo can provide an additional layer of freshness and sweetness, which contrasts beautifully with the spicy shrimp.

To round out the meal, consider serving these tacos alongside a simple black bean salad or cilantro-lime rice. Both options can further elevate your dining experience while staying true to the taco’s vibrant flavors.

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp can last up to 2 days, while the slaw is best consumed within a day due to its crunchy texture. Reheating shrimp can make them tough, so gently warm them in a pan over low heat until just heated through.

For meal prep, consider cooking a larger batch of shrimp and using them throughout the week in salads, grain bowls, or even as a filling for quesadillas. You can also freeze cooked shrimp for up to three months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and dry them well before marinating.

→ How can I make these tacos spicier?

Add more chili powder or include slices of fresh jalapeño in the slaw.

→ Can I prepare the slaw in advance?

Absolutely! Make the slaw ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day.

→ What can I substitute for corn tortillas?

You can use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.