Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Fiesta

Name: Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined); 8 soft corn tortillas; 2 cups green or red cabbage (shredded); 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; Hot sauce to taste

Published: December 1, 2025

by Mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

You can whip up these shrimp tacos in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
The flavor combo of garlic, lime, and crunchy cabbage is pure magic.
Eye-catching colors and textures make them irresistible on any dinner table.
Versatile enough for casual dinners or fancy gatherings—everyone will love them!

Ingredients for shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Shrimp: Look for large shrimp (16-20 count) that are firm and have a mild ocean smell; they should be peeled and deveined.
Tortillas: Soft corn tortillas work best for wrapping around those juicy shrimp, but feel free to use flour if you prefer.
Cabbage: Use green or red cabbage for color; it adds fantastic crunch and freshness to your tacos.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile; it’s essential for that punchy taste.
Spices: A mix of paprika, cumin, and salt gives the shrimp a delightful kick without overpowering.

For the Sauce:

Yogurt or Sour Cream: This base adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Hot Sauce: Add your favorite hot sauce to taste—it brings heat that perfectly complements the cool slaw!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing your fresh shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels—no one likes soggy seafood! In a bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, paprika, cumin, and salt. Toss those beautiful shrimp in this mixture until they’re fully coated. Let them marinate while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Make the Cabbage Slaw

In another bowl, shred your cabbage into thin strips. Add a splash of lime juice along with some salt and toss until well mixed. The acid will help soften the cabbage just enough while enhancing its crunch—magic!

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil (olive oil works great). Once hot, throw in those marinated shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque—their transformation is almost poetic!

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While your shrimp are sizzling away like they own the place, warm up your tortillas in another pan or directly over an open flame if you’re feeling adventurous (just be careful!). You’ll want them soft but slightly charred—think casual beach vibes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Grab those warmed tortillas and pile on some cooked shrimp followed by generous amounts of cabbage slaw. Drizzle with yogurt or sour cream mixed with hot sauce for that extra zing.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Plate up your glorious creations and serve immediately while everything’s still warm! A little extra lime wedge on the side never hurt anyone either!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. These delightful shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

Shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw are a fiesta of flavor and color!
This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a weeknight winner.
The crunch of the slaw combined with succulent shrimp creates a meal that’s hard to resist.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by marinating the shrimp for at least 15 minutes to soak in all those tasty flavors. Cook them in a hot pan until they’re pink and slightly charred. While the shrimp sizzle, toss together your cabbage slaw and warm your tortillas for the perfect assembly line.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative! Swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or even roasted veggies if you’re feeling adventurous. Add spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick, or throw in some mango for a tropical twist on your slaw.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat and refresh your tortillas briefly on the stove to keep them soft and pliable.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor—frozen can be convenient but may lack that delightful snap.
Don’t skip marinating; it elevates every bite.
Lastly, warm tortillas right before serving for a soft embrace around your filling!

There was this one time I hosted taco night with friends, and let me tell you, the shrimp tacos were gone faster than I could say “guacamole.” Everyone raved about them, and I felt like a culinary rock star!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw?

To make delicious shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw, gather fresh shrimp, corn tortillas, and ingredients for the slaw like green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and lime juice. For seasoning, you’ll need chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Optional toppings include avocado slices and salsa. Having these ingredients ready ensures that your cooking process flows smoothly and you can enjoy flavorful tacos in no time.

How long does it take to prepare shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw?

Preparing shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes marinating the shrimp for about 10 minutes while you chop the vegetables for the slaw. Cooking the shrimp usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes on the stovetop. The quick preparation time makes this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Can I use frozen shrimp for my tacos?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp for your shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can do this by placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leaving them in the refrigerator overnight. Thawed shrimp will cook evenly and absorb the seasonings well, ensuring that your tacos are just as tasty as if you used fresh shrimp.

What can I serve alongside shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw?

For a complete meal alongside your shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw, consider serving black beans or a refreshing corn salad. You might also enjoy some tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole as an appetizer. These sides complement the flavors of the tacos perfectly and create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will love.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw

In summary, making shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw is a simple yet delightful culinary experience. With fresh ingredients like succulent shrimp and crunchy veggies, these tacos burst with flavor. The quick preparation time makes them ideal for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Don’t forget to customize your toppings to suit your taste! Enjoying these vibrant tacos will surely elevate any meal occasion.

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