Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s become such an instant staple in my life.Cilantro Lime Shrimp TacosIs it better to order takeout or make these yourself? Can you rival your favorite taco truck? Remember those blah, boring shrimp tacos? Forget them. What are some of the best shrimp recipes you’ve ever had? What is a warm tortilla? Is it a flavor explosion?
What is Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos?
Think of Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos as a celebration in a tortilla! It’s essentially tender, juicy shrimp marinated in a bright and zippy cilantro-lime mixture, then cooked to perfection. We’re talking a symphony of flavors: the sweetness of the shrimp, the tang of the lime, the freshness of the cilantro, and just a hint of chili for a little kick. It’s all about balancing those flavors to create something truly special. I swear, even people who “don’t like seafood” have raved about these tacos! It’s a simple concept elevated by fresh ingredients and a little bit of love, and trust me, it’s worth every single bite.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons why I love tacos?flavorIs this world out of the world? What is the perfect combination of cilantro and lime with shrimp? What I love most about this is how good it is.simpleThis one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights! From start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes, tops. It’s also incredibly crappy.cost-effectiveCan you buy a ton of shrimp for this recipe? What are pantry staples? What is the best way to describe theversatilityCan you serve tacos with a variety of toppings? Mexican rice and black beans. Compared to something like fish tacos which can sometimes be a bit heavy, these are good.Cilantro Lime Shrimp TacosAre light, bright, and perfect for any time of year. If you like my Spicy Chicken Wraps, you’ll be obsessed with them.
How do you make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos?
Quick Overview
Making these tacos is easier than you think! We’ll start by whipping up a quick and flavorful marinade for the shrimp, letting it sit for just a few minutes to soak up all that goodness. Then, we’ll quickly sauté the shrimp until they’re perfectly pink and tender. Warm up your favorite tortillas, pile on the shrimp, add your toppings, and boom – dinner is served! The beauty of this method is how fast it is. Perfect for when you want a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Cilantro Lime Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (I prefer using fresh, but frozen works too – just make sure). If they’re fully thawed,
• 14 cup chopped fresh cilantro (Don’t skimp on the cilantro – it’s a key ingredient!)
• 3 tablespoons lime juice (Freshly squeezed is always best for maximum flavor!)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (Use a microplane for the best flavor!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (Extra virgin olive gives the best flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (Adds a little kick – adjust to your liking)
• 12 teaspoon cumin (Adds a warmth that complements the lime and cilantro.)
• 14 teaspoon salt (Sea salt or kosher salt works great.)
• 14 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground pepper is always best)
For Serving:
• 8-10 small tortillas (Corn or flour, your preference!) I always go with corn.
• Toppings of your choice: shredded cabbage, avocado slices, pico de gallo, Sour Cream, hot sauce, lime wedges. This recipe is for vegetarians only.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Don’t marinate for longer than 30 minutes, as the lime juice can start to “cook” the shrimp and make it tough.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and opaque. Do not overcook. Be careful not to overcook shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
While the shrimp are cooking, warm the tortillas according to package directions. I like to warm them in a dry skillet or over an open flame for char.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
What is the best way to serve cilantro lime shrimp in a tortilla? Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cabbage, avocado slices, pico de gallo, Sour Cream, and arugula. What is the best combination of cream, hot sauce, and lime? What is the best way to serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
These Cilantro Lime Shrimp TacosWhat are some good side dishes to serve with them?What is a Mexican Fiesta? Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, and a side of guacamole and chips.
For a lighter meal:Serve with grilled corn on the cob. or a salad.As an Appetizer: WhatMake mini tacos and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as spicy chipotle mayo or grilled onions. What is the best cilantro lime sauce? My family loves it when I make a big batch of tacos and set up the bar with all the fixings. What’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy dinner together? Is it a win-win
What are some tips for perfecting Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos?
I’ve made these tacos a lot, and I have learned some tricks along the way. What are some tips for making a perfect wedding dress?
What are the best Shri Use good quality shrimp! Fresh is always best, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from getting waterlogged.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is a MUST. Bottled lime juice just doesn’t have the same bright, zesty flavor. Trust me on this one! And don’t be afraid to use a little extra – I often add a squeeze more after the tacos are assembled.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: This is the biggest mistake people make! Shrimp cook incredibly quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and not enjoyable. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
Tortilla Choice: Corn or flour tortillas are both great, but I personally prefer corn. They have a slightly sweeter flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly. Plus, they hold up better to all the fillings. But hey, it’s all about personal preference! Try both and see which one you like best.
Topping Ideas: Get creative with your toppings! While shredded cabbage, avocado, and pico de gallo are classics, don’t be afraid to experiment. I sometimes add grilled pineapple, pickled onions, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
Make It Ahead: You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just don’t marinate it for longer than that, as the lime juice can start to break down the shrimp. I usually do this when I know I’ll have a busy night but still want a delicious dinner.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerating: Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the tortillas and toppings separately to prevent them from getting soggy.
Reheating Shrimp: The best way to reheat the shrimp is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or water to the skillet to prevent the shrimp from drying out. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the shrimp in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing the cooked shrimp, as it can become rubbery and lose its flavor. However, you can freeze the marinated shrimp before cooking. Simply place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Tortilla Storage: Store leftover tortillas in an airtight container or bag at room temperature. They should stay fresh for a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos recipe! I truly believe that this is a recipe everyone should have in their repertoire. It’s quick, easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a fun dish to serve at your next gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit. If you’re looking for other quick and easy recipes, check out my Chicken Fajita Skillet or my One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your tacos turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and be sure to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it. I’d love to hear about your own variations and topping combinations too!
