If you’re craving a meal that’s both simple and packed with flavor, these Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Cream are just what you need. The shrimp is juicy and perfectly seasoned, while the creamy sauce adds a zesty kick. It’s a quick dish that feels like a treat, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
Steps
- Begin by marinating the shrimp. Combine peeled and cleaned shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let them marinate while you prepare the other components.
- Prepare the cabbage slaw by slicing a quarter of a small green cabbage thinly. Toss it with salt and lime juice in a bowl, using your hands to gently massage the flavors in.
- For the cilantro sauce, create a paste by mincing garlic and mixing it with salt. Stir this paste into mayonnaise along with lime juice and pepper, then fold in chopped cilantro.
- Make the pico de gallo by mixing together chopped plum tomatoes, minced red onion, salt, and olive oil in a small bowl.
- Heat safflower oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for about one minute on each side until opaque.
- To serve, bring all ingredients to the table for self-assembly or fill each tortilla with shrimp, cabbage slaw, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of cilantro sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (454 grams) small wild shrimp
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ? teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) safflower oil for cooking
- ¼ small green cabbage
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1 small garlic clove
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup (112 grams) mayonnaise
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ? teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 plum tomatoes, cored, seeded, and finely chopped
- ¼ cup minced red onion
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 8 taco-sized soft flour tortillas
FAQ
- What type of shrimp should I use for these tacos?
- It’s best to use small, wild-caught shrimp for this recipe, as they are cost-effective and cook quickly. Look for shrimp that are already peeled and cleaned to save time.
- Can I prepare any components of the shrimp tacos ahead of time?
- Yes, you can marinate the shrimp and prepare the cabbage slaw, pico de gallo, and cilantro sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook the shrimp right before serving for optimal freshness.
- Are there any variations for this recipe?
- Certainly! You can double the slaw to make a taco salad, use chickpeas instead of shrimp for a vegetarian option, or choose corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. For a spicier kick, try using hot smoked paprika.
- How long can leftovers be stored?
- Any leftover components can be kept in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container for up to three or four days.
- What can I serve with garlic shrimp tacos to make it a meal?
- These tacos pair well with margaritas or agua fresca, spicy pepitas, refried beans, and grilled peppers and onions for a complete meal experience.
Tips
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: To save time, you can prepare the shrimp marinade, cabbage slaw, pico de gallo, and cilantro sauce earlier in the day. Store these components separately in the fridge, and then cook the shrimp and assemble the tacos just before serving.
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for small, wild-caught shrimp which are often more affordable and cook quickly. Keep them in the freezer for easy access, and make sure they’re peeled and cleaned to save on prep time.
- Add a Personal Touch with Variations: Consider doubling the cabbage slaw to create a refreshing taco salad. For dietary preferences, use chickpeas instead of shrimp for a vegetarian option, or switch to corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
- Enhance Flavors with Smoked Paprika: Using sweet smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor to the shrimp. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using a hot variety to elevate your tacos.
Equipment
- 12-inch Nonstick Skillet – Essential for cooking the shrimp quickly and evenly.
- Chef’s Knife – Useful for mincing garlic and slicing cabbage thinly.
- Medium Bowl – Needed for marinating the shrimp.
- Small Bowls – Useful for preparing and serving the cabbage slaw, cilantro sauce, and pico de gallo.