These delicious Chili Lime Tacos with Shrimp are not only bursting with flavor but also come together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, they offer a healthy, vibrant way to savor seafood in every bite. Let’s dive into a fun and flavorful journey as we prepare tacos that your family will love.
Every time I make these tacos, the bright aroma of lime and spices fills my kitchen, reminding me of sunny days and warm evenings spent with family and friends. The shrimp is coated in a zesty marinade, and when it hits the pan, you understand why this recipe is a favorite in my house. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, and the colorful cabbage slaw adds a delightful crunch. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up, these tacos are just the thing.
Chili Lime Tacos with Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Seafood
Description
Delicious and vibrant chili lime tacos filled with flavorful shrimp and crunchy cabbage slaw, ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 3 large limes (juiced)
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups green cabbage (shredded)
- 2 cups purple cabbage (shredded)
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado cilantro dressing (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and the juice of your limes.
- Add the shrimp to this spice and lime mixture, stirring to coat them evenly.
- Place the shrimp in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes to marinate.
- After marinating, remove the shrimp from the bowl and discard the leftover marinade.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the shrimp until they’re cooked through, which should only take about 2-3 minutes per side.
- While the shrimp are cooking, warm your corn tortillas over the flame or in a dry pan.
- Fill each tortilla with a generous scoop of the cabbage slaw and top with the sautéed shrimp.
- If desired, drizzle on some avocado cilantro dressing and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Serve with fresh salsa, a zesty rice salad, or black beans for added nutrition. Customize with extra toppings like diced tomatoes or lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Why You’ll Love These Shrimp Tacos
These vibrant tacos are a hit because they combine quick preparation with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Not to mention, they are family-friendly and a fun way to introduce more seafood into your meals. Plus, the zesty lime really brightens everything up!
How to Create Delicious Chili Lime Tacos with Shrimp
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 3 large limes (juiced; you only need the juice)
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups green cabbage (shredded)
- 2 cups purple cabbage (shredded)
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado cilantro dressing (optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix together the chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and the juice of your limes.
- Add the shrimp to this spice and lime mixture, stirring to coat them evenly.
- Place the shrimp in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes to marinate. Keep an eye on the time—the lime juice will start to lightly cook the shrimp.
- After marinating, remove the shrimp from the bowl and discard the leftover marinade.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the shrimp until they’re cooked through, which should only take about 2-3 minutes per side.
- While the shrimp are cooking, warm your corn tortillas over the flame or in a dry pan.
- Fill each tortilla with a generous scoop of the cabbage slaw and top with the sautéed shrimp.
- If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle on some avocado cilantro dressing and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Your Tacos
Serve your chili lime tacos with a side of fresh salsa or a zesty rice salad. They also pair wonderfully with a simple avocado salad or black beans for added nutrition. Encourage everyone to customize their tacos with extra toppings like diced tomatoes, lime wedges, or hot sauce for a kick!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the cabbage slaw separate to maintain its crispiness and assemble tacos when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips for Making Perfect Tacos
- Make sure not to marinate the shrimp for too long, as the lime juice can make them tough.
- Always warm your tortillas! It makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other veggies to your slaw—grated carrots or jicama provide a lovely crunch.
Variations You Can Try
For a twist, you could substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas. Additionally, try incorporating different spices to personalize the flavor to your liking!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge or under cold running water.
What can I substitute for the corn tortillas?
You can use flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a lower-carb option.
Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the slaw a few hours earlier; just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
With each bite of these Chili Lime Tacos with Shrimp, you’ll feel a burst of flavor that’ll transport you to a sunny beachside fiesta. Enjoy making this recipe for your family soon!
