Shrimp Tacos with Citrus Slaw

Shrimp tacos with citrus slaw are fresh, bright, and easy to throw together any night of the week. The shrimp are seasoned and cooked quickly, then topped with a crunchy citrus slaw that adds just the right balance. It’s one of those meals that feels light but still actually fills you up.

These baked shrimp tacos are simple, fresh, and easy to build with whatever toppings you love. The citrus slaw can be made ahead, and the shrimp cook quickly, so this works for weeknights, Taco Tuesday, or a lighter dinner that still has plenty of flavor.

Ingredients

Tacos are as much about the toppings as they are the protein themselves. These Shrimp Tacos with Citrus Slaw are a celebration of both fresh ingredients and bright, fresh flavors.

• Shrimp – Skip the colossal shrimp. Large and extra-large shrimp work great for this shrimp recipe, giving you tender shrimp in every bite. However, you don’t want to pick shrimp that are too small as you risk them over baking in the oven.
• Savory spice blend– A savory spice blend (or your favorite seasoning blend) makes this quick and easy to throw together.
• Butter – Keeps the shrimp tender and juicy as the cook in the oven.
• Cabbage – The crispy, crunchy base of the slaw. Cabbage and seafood tacos are a perfect pairing giving both a slightly bitter flavor and all of the crispy bite you crave.
• Mayonnaise – The base for the creamy dressing for the citrus slaw.
• Citrus – Fresh is best! You will need freshly squeezed lemon, lime, and orange juice. This combination of citrus is common in Caribbean mojo.
• Vinegar – Adds tang and depth to the citrus slaw.
• Jalapeno – Gives a little kick to the slaw.
• Honey – Balances the tang of the creamy slaw dressing.
• Garlic – Gives a pungent savory pop without overpowering the flavors of the coleslaw.
• Salt and Pepper
• Toppings – Always think about the texture and flavors of your toppings. Avocado brings creaminess. Lime gives a bright pop that wakes up all of the flavors. And sunny cilantro delivers on herbaceous and citrusy flavor.

How to Make Shrimp Tacos with Citrus Slaw

This recipe keeps things simple with a sheet pan method and a quick citrus slaw.

Variations

Not feeling tortillas? Use the sheet pan shrimp and tangy citrus coleslaw as a base to create other dishes. Here are a few ideas.

• Bowl – Skip the tortilla and top your favorite rice with the baked shrimp, slaw, black beans, and all of your favorite bowl toppings.
• Salad – Use your favorite base of greens and add these perfectly spiced shrimp and slaw.
• Burrito – Isn’t a burrito just a giant taco? Add rice and beans to your favorite Gluten Free burrito sized tortilla. Black beans pair especially well with seafood.
• Tostadas – Top a tostada shell with this shrimp and slaw combination for a crunchy and delicious seafood feast!

How to Top Shrimp Tacos with Citrus Slaw

Who doesn’t love taco night and the fun of building your perfect taco? Here are just a few ideas on additional toppings you can add that will pair well with the mojo coleslaw.

• Pico de Gallo
• Fresh or Pickled Jalapenos
• Sour Cream
• Hot Sauce
• Guacamole
• Pickled Onions
• Salsa
• Cheese

Storage

Both the baked shrimp and coleslaw make for great meal prep. They both need to be refrigerated and stored in an airtight container. They will keep for up to three days.

Best Tortillas for Shrimp Tacos

Use small corn or flour tortillas depending on your preference. Warm them before serving so they are easier to fold and hold the shrimp and slaw without breaking.

Top Tip for Shrimp Tacos with Citrus Slaw

If you purchase shrimp still in the shell, save those shells! They can be frozen and saved for a later date when you want to create your own fresh and flavor packed seafood stock.