Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos – Fresh, Flavorful & Easy

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are a flavor-packed way to spice up taco night.

Juicy shrimp marinated in a zesty cilantro lime mixture, paired with creamy slaw and served on warm tortillas, make for a quick and irresistible meal.

Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, summer cookouts, or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

Bold, bright flavors – cilantro, lime, and spices create a zesty marinade

Quick and easy – ready in less than 30 minutes

Healthy and light – packed with lean protein and fresh veggies

Customizable toppings – build your perfect taco

Perfect for family meals or parties

Naturally gluten-free (if using corn tortillas)

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

For the Shrimp:

Raw shrimp – peeled and deveined

Olive oil – for marinating and cooking

Fresh cilantro – chopped for vibrant herb flavor

Fresh lime juice – brightens and tenderizes the shrimp

Chili powder, cumin, and paprika – for a smoky kick

Garlic powder – boosts savory flavor

Salt and pepper – to season

For the Slaw:

Green cabbage – thinly shredded for crunch

Greek yogurt or sour cream – for creamy texture

Lime juice – keeps it fresh and tangy

Honey – adds a touch of sweetness

Salt – to balance flavors

For Serving:

Tortillas – corn or flour, warmed

Extra cilantro, avocado, or salsa – optional toppings

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use large shrimp for easier grilling and better texture

Marinate shrimp briefly – 10 to 15 minutes is enough

Don’t overcook – shrimp cooks very quickly (about 2 minutes per side)

Warm the tortillas for the best taco experience

Prepare slaw ahead to let flavors meld

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos

Marinate the shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chopped cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Let sit for 10–15 minutes.

Prepare the slaw
In another bowl, combine shredded cabbage, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.

Toss to coat evenly and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cook the shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly browned.

Assemble the tacos
Warm tortillas in a dry pan or microwave.

Top each tortilla with slaw, shrimp, and any additional toppings you like.

Serve immediately
Enjoy your tacos fresh and hot, with extra lime wedges on the side!

What to Serve It With

Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice

Black beans or refried beans

Fresh salsa or pico de gallo

Guacamole and chips

Grilled corn or elote

Variations / Substitutions

Swap shrimp for fish – like mahi-mahi or cod

Make it spicy – add jalapeños or chipotle sauce

Use flour tortillas instead of corn

Add avocado slices or guacamole

Top with cotija cheese for extra flavor

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store cooked shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days

Reheat shrimp gently – over low heat or briefly in the microwave

Tortillas: Store covered to keep them soft

Best enjoyed fresh – shrimp can become rubbery if over-reheated

FAQs

Can I grill the shrimp instead of cooking in a skillet?
Yes! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor—just thread shrimp onto skewers first.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?
Only 10–15 minutes—too long and the acid in the lime juice will start cooking the shrimp.

What type of tortillas work best?
Corn tortillas give a classic street taco vibe, but flour tortillas are great too.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the slaw.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually gets better as it sits, up to a few hours in advance.

What toppings go well with these tacos?
Avocado, diced tomatoes, salsa, shredded cheese, or hot sauce all work great!

Is this meal freezer-friendly?
Shrimp can be frozen before cooking, but cooked shrimp is best enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

These Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are packed with bold, bright flavors that make every bite feel like a party.

Quick, healthy, and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend fiestas.

Once you try them, you’ll want to add them to your regular taco rotation!