Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw for Taco Lovers

Name: Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw for Taco Lovers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon hot sauce

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about these grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw! They’re like a burst of summer on your plate—so fresh and vibrant! The combination of perfectly grilled shrimp and crunchy, zesty slaw wrapped in warm corn tortillas is just heavenly. Trust me, every bite is a flavor explosion! This dish is not only a staple in Mexican cuisine, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, they come together in no time, making them perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend cookout. You’re going to love how simple yet satisfying they are!

grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw - detail 1

Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these grilled shrimp tacos truly shine! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh shrimp is the star of the show, so go for quality here!
2 tablespoons olive oil – This will help the spices stick and add a lovely richness.
1 teaspoon chili powder – For that smoky kick that complements the shrimp beautifully.
1 teaspoon cumin – This adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s just perfect.
Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy; seasoning is crucial for flavor!
8 corn tortillas – I love using corn tortillas for their authentic taste and texture.
2 cups green cabbage, shredded – This gives your tacos that crunchy, refreshing bite.
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped – Adds a fresh, herby note that brightens everything up.
1 lime, juiced – Zesty lime juice is a must for that tangy flavor.
1/4 cup mayonnaise – This gives the slaw a creamy consistency that balances the crunch.
1 tablespoon hot sauce – Adjust to your heat preference; it’s all about your taste!

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go, and you’ll be one step closer to taco bliss!

How to Prepare Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Alright, let’s dive into the delicious process of making these grilled shrimp tacos! I promise, it’s super straightforward and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a fantastic meal in no time!

Prepping the Shrimp

First things first, let’s get those shrimp ready! In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure every shrimp is coated well—this is where the flavor begins! I like to use my hands for this part; it’s just more fun and you can really feel the seasoning sticking!

Making the Cabbage Slaw

Now, onto the slaw! In another bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, the juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, and 1 tablespoon of hot sauce. Give it a good stir until everything is combined. This slaw is so refreshing and adds that perfect crunch to your tacos. Feel free to taste it and adjust the lime or hot sauce to your liking—it’s your taco, after all!

Grilling the Shrimp and Tortillas

Time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the shrimp on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side—you’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Don’t wander off during this; shrimp cook quickly! While the shrimp is grilling, throw the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side just to warm them up and give them a little char. Trust me, it makes a big difference in flavor!

Assembling the Tacos

Now comes the fun part—let’s assemble those tacos! Grab a warm tortilla and lay down a few pieces of the grilled shrimp. Top it generously with the vibrant cabbage slaw you made earlier. Oh wow, just look at those colors! Repeat with the remaining tortillas and shrimp. Serve them up immediately while they’re still warm, and prepare for a fiesta of flavors that will have everyone raving!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw turn out perfectly? I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true tips that I always follow!

Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more hot sauce to your slaw or even sprinkle some extra chili powder on the shrimp. But if you prefer a milder flavor, you can always dial it back. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and crisp cabbage make a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you can, hit up your local seafood market for the freshest shrimp. Your taste buds will thank you!
Customize the slaw: This slaw is super versatile! Add in some shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color. You can even toss in some sliced jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous!
Warm your tortillas: Never skip warming your corn tortillas! It makes them pliable and enhances the flavor. A little char from the grill adds a lovely smokiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep a close eye on your shrimp while grilling. They cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re perfect!
Serve immediately: These tacos are best enjoyed fresh off the grill! The combination of warm shrimp and cool slaw is just divine, so don’t wait too long to dig in!

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to make some seriously delicious tacos. Enjoy the process and have fun with it—cooking should always be a joyful experience!

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delightful grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes, but it’s a great starting point:

Serving Size: 2 tacos
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 800mg

These tacos pack a punch of protein and flavor while still being relatively light, making them a fantastic option for any meal. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious and satisfying!

FAQ Section

Got questions about these grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw? No worries! I’ve gathered some of the most common queries to help you out. Let’s dive in!

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and grilling. I recommend letting them sit in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag under cold water for quicker thawing. Fresh is great, but frozen can work just fine!

What if I don’t have corn tortillas?
No problem at all! You can use flour tortillas if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be a bit different, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can I make the cabbage slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the slaw and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for a day or two, but I recommend adding the mayo and hot sauce right before serving to keep it crisp and vibrant.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the slaw?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute! It’ll still give you that creamy texture with a bit of tang. Alternatively, you could use avocado for a rich, healthy twist.

How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), you can store the grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the cabbage slaw separate to maintain its crunch. Just reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet before enjoying again!

Can I grill the shrimp on a stovetop grill pan?
Definitely! A stovetop grill pan is a great alternative. Just make sure it’s preheated well and follow the same cooking times. You’ll still get that lovely char and flavor!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use corn tortillas and ensure your hot sauce and mayonnaise are gluten-free, these tacos are a safe choice for a gluten-free diet. Enjoy without worry!

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions! Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so make these tacos your own and enjoy every delicious bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh my goodness, where do I even start? These grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw are just a delight for so many reasons! First off, they’re quick and easy to prepare—perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, you can whip these up in about 25 minutes!

But it doesn’t stop there. The flavors are absolutely fantastic. The smoky grilled shrimp paired with the crunchy, zesty slaw is like a party in your mouth! Plus, they’re versatile; you can tweak the spice level and add your favorite toppings to make them your own.

They’re also healthy—packed with protein from the shrimp and plenty of crunch from the fresh cabbage. And let’s not forget, they’re gluten-free, making them a great option for everyone at the table!

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just treating yourself to a tasty dinner, these tacos are sure to impress. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be craving them again and again!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your grilled shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw ready, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even further! Pairing these tacos with the right sides and drinks can really enhance the whole experience.

Fresh Guacamole: You can’t go wrong with creamy guacamole! It adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the smoky shrimp perfectly. Just mash some ripe avocados, mix in lime juice, diced tomatoes, and a pinch of salt for a quick dip.
Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with corn, bell peppers, and a zesty lime dressing makes for a colorful and nutritious side. It’s light and adds a nice contrast to the tacos!
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice is a must-try! It’s sweet, spicy, and absolutely delicious alongside your tacos.
Chips and Salsa: Serve some crispy tortilla chips with a side of fresh salsa or pico de gallo. The crunch and tanginess will complement the tacos beautifully!
Watermelon Agua Fresca: For a refreshing drink, whip up a watermelon agua fresca. Just blend fresh watermelon with water and a bit of lime juice, then strain for a cool, thirst-quenching beverage.
Margaritas: If you’re in the mood for something a bit stronger, a classic margarita pairs perfectly with these tacos! The citrusy notes in the drink balance out the flavors beautifully.

Mix and match these suggestions to create a full meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your taco feast and all the deliciousness that comes with it!

For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about the versatility of cabbage in recipes, visit Healthline’s guide on cabbage.

For tips on how to perfectly grill shrimp, see this Serious Eats article.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.