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Crispy Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe with Easy Zesty Cilantro Lime Slaw

crispy grilled shrimp tacos - featured image

Quick and flavorful shrimp tacos with a crispy grilled coating paired with a bright, zesty cilantro lime slaw. Perfect for a fresh, easy weeknight meal or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Optional garnishes: sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, or pickled red onions

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, toss the peeled shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the shrimp and gently toss to coat evenly but lightly.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, mayonnaise, honey, and salt until smooth.
  5. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss to thoroughly combine the slaw.
  6. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  7. Arrange shrimp in a single layer on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and opaque, about 5-6 minutes total.
  8. Warm corn tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until pliable with slight char marks.
  9. Assemble tacos by placing 3-4 shrimp on each tortilla, topping with a generous spoonful of cilantro lime slaw, and garnishing with lime wedges and optional avocado or queso fresco.
  10. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between crispy shrimp and cool slaw.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Use panko breadcrumbs for best crunch or substitute with crushed tortilla chips or gluten-free crackers. Avoid overcrowding the grill to prevent steaming. Dress slaw just before serving to keep it crisp. Warm tortillas on grill or skillet, avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, grilled shrimp, crispy shrimp, cilantro lime slaw, quick dinner, easy tacos, seafood tacos, summer recipe