These spicy shrimp tacos are a burst of flavor! Juicy shrimp are cooked with a kick, and they’re topped with a creamy Sriracha sauce that adds a nice little zing. Yum!
Don’t forget the cilantro lime slaw—it’s crunchy and refreshing! I like to pile it high on my tacos for extra fun. You’ll be asking for seconds, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium can work too. For a budget-friendly option, try using canned shrimp or even cooked chicken for a different twist.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, but the smokiness will be missed. Adjust cayenne pepper based on your spice tolerance; you can skip it or swap it with crushed red pepper flakes for a different heat profile.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the sauce. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or vegan mayonnaise if you’re looking for a plant-based choice. Just be mindful of the flavor; some brands have a stronger taste than traditional mayo.
Coleslaw Mix: For the slaw, you can use a mix of green cabbage, red cabbage, and shredded carrots, or even a ready-made slaw mix. If you want added crunch, consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or snap peas.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be quick and simple, but getting them just right is key. Start by ensuring your shrimp are well coated with the marinade so they pack in flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and use a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. They’re ready when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them immediately from heat to prevent overcooking. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery!
How Do I Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce Just Right?
Creating the sauce is all about balancing flavors. Here’s what to keep in mind to get that perfect creamy yet spicy vibe:
- Start with less Sriracha and gradually add more. You can always make it spicier, but it’s tough to tone it down.
- Mix in honey if you prefer a touch of sweetness, as it complements the heat wonderfully.
- Taste as you mix! Adjust lime juice or Sriracha until it suits your preference.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious and flavorful spicy shrimp tacos that everyone will love! Enjoy the cooking process!
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sriracha Sauce and Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges for serving
- Extra cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 40 minutes in total. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to prepare and marinate the shrimp, plus about 10 minutes to make the sauce and slaw. Finally, cooking the shrimp and assembling the tacos will take another 10 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated with the spices. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
2. Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce:
While the shrimp are marinating, grab a small bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and honey (if using). Mix until everything is nicely combined and smooth. Adjust the spiciness by adding more Sriracha or lime juice to suit your taste. Set it aside for later.
3. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
In another bowl, combine the coleslaw mix and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mix, add the olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the coleslaw is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed to make it just right.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re pink and cooked through. This should take no longer than 5-6 minutes total.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp are cooking, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet or in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Warming them will make them easier to fold and eat!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the shrimp and tortillas are ready, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Place a generous amount of shrimp on each tortilla. Top it off with a scoop of cilantro lime slaw, then drizzle the creamy Sriracha sauce over everything. If you like, sprinkle on some extra cilantro for a fresh touch.
7. Serve:
Serve your spicy shrimp tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the lime over the tacos to add a zesty finish. Enjoy your tasty creation!
These spicy shrimp tacos are sure to be a hit! Enjoy with family and friends!
Can I Substitute the Shrimp with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Chicken or firm tofu can be great alternatives. If using chicken, make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm and pan-fry until golden for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos?
Store leftover shrimp, slaw, and sauce separately in airtight containers. The shrimp will stay good for up to 2 days in the fridge, while the slaw can last about the same. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet before assembling the tacos again.
Can I Make the Creamy Sriracha Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy Sriracha sauce a day ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, and adjust the Sriracha if you want more heat!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’d prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce. It will add creaminess and a bit of tang. You can blend in extra lime juice to maintain the flavor balance.
