Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 small corn tortillas; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup carrots, shredded; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp honey; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: 5-Ingredient Fix Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw for my friends and family. The vibrant colors and bold flavors never fail to impress! The key to a great taco is balancing the spicy shrimp with the refreshing, crunchy slaw, which adds just the right amount of texture. I often serve these tacos with a squeeze of lime on top, enhancing the flavor profile even further. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are always a hit at my table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:10:28.063Z

When I first tried making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw, I wanted to create something that packed a flavor punch while still being easy to prepare. The combination of spices for the shrimp meld beautifully together, creating a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen. I learned that marinating the shrimp before cooking really amplifies the flavor, making each bite more satisfying.

This dish has become a staple in my household, especially during the warmer months. I like to customize the slaw with different ingredients each time, whether it’s adding mango for sweetness or cilantro for an herbal kick. It’s a fun way to experiment with flavors!

Why You Will Love These Tacos
Juicy shrimp seasoned with a fiery spice mix
Crunchy slaw that perfectly balances the heat
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Balancing Flavors for the Perfect Taco

Achieving the ideal balance between the spicy shrimp and the crunchy slaw is essential for an unforgettable taco experience. The shrimp, coated in a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne, brings a delightful kick that can be adjusted to your preference. If you find the heat too intense, consider reducing the cayenne or substituting it with smoked paprika for a milder flavor profile, which still retains depth.

The slaw is not just an accompaniment; it plays a critical role in mellowing the heat from the shrimp. The combination of shredded cabbage and carrots adds not only a satisfying crunch but also a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spice. If you wish to experiment, adding diced mango or pineapple can elevate the slaw, providing additional sweetness and a touch of tropical flair.

Cooking Techniques to Perfect Your Shrimp

Cooking shrimp may seem straightforward, but timing is crucial. If overcooked, shrimp can become rubbery, losing their juicy tenderness. Ideally, cook the shrimp until they turn bright pink and opaque, which should take around 3-4 minutes on medium-high heat. To ensure even cooking, avoid crowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. A non-stick skillet can also help prevent sticking and enhance browning.

If you're looking for a smoky flavor, consider grilling the shrimp instead. Preheat your grill to medium-high, and thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers to make handling easier. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and deliciously charred. This method not only infuses a distinct flavor but also adds visual appeal with beautiful grill marks.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your tacos:

Shrimp and Slaw Ingredients

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
8 small corn tortillas
2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, shredded
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp honey
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Combine these to create your delicious tacos!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your tacos:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, mix well, and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Prepare the Slaw

In another bowl, mix shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and honey. Pour this dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry pan. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the shrimp and top with the slaw. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your flavorful tacos!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha on top! You can also substitute shrimp with grilled chicken if preferred.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos can be made ahead for better convenience during entertaining. The shrimp can be marinated up to 30 minutes in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to prepare the slaw shortly before serving to ensure it remains crisp. If you have leftovers, store them separately: place the shrimp in an airtight container, and cover the slaw with plastic wrap to maintain its texture.

When it comes to reheating, be cautious with the shrimp. Gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, just until heated through to avoid further cooking. If the slaw has wilted, consider adding a splash of lime juice to reawaken the flavors before serving it again atop the freshly reheated shrimp.

Variations on a Classic Taco

Feel free to customize the tacos to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, consider using seasoned grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini instead of shrimp, or black beans for a hearty protein alternative. You could also swap corn tortillas for flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture that holds the fillings well.

The flavor profile doesn't need to be limited to just the spices listed. Try experimenting with different spice blends like taco seasoning or even a zesty garlic-herb mix. For extra zest, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who crave more heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a lighter dressing option.

→ How do I store leftover tacos?

Store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortillas instead of corn or flour tortillas.