Coconut Lime Shrimp Tacos

These coconut lime shrimp tacos are a perfect blend of tropical flavors and spicy zest that make weeknight dinners feel like a mini getaway. They come together quickly with simple ingredients and pack a punch of freshness and warmth in every bite.

I first whipped this up on a whim to use leftover shrimp and it instantly became a crowd favorite for casual get togethers.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined to ensure quick and even cooking choose firm shrimp that smell fresh not fishy
• Coconut milk: adds a creamy tropical richness select full fat for best flavor and texture
• Lime zest and juice: provide bright acidity and freshness use unwaxed limes for the best zest
• Ground cumin and chili powder: bring warm earthiness and gentle heat fresh spices will make this pop
• Garlic powder: deepens the savory notes look for organic or freshly ground garlic powder
• Corn tortillas: are traditional and offer a slightly sweet flavor warm them well to keep pliable and prevent cracking
• Shredded cabbage: gives crunch and freshness opt for green or purple depending on your preference
• Mango salsa: adds sweet and tangy contrast choose store bought with minimal additives or make your own ripe mangoes make a difference
• Fresh cilantro: as garnish gives an herbaceous finish pick bright green leaves that smell fragrant
• Sliced limes: for serving boost acidity at the last moment to freshen each bite

Instructions

Build The Marinade:

In a bowl mix coconut milk lime zest lime juice ground cumin garlic powder chili powder salt and pepper thoroughly. This step infuses the shrimp with layers of flavor and ensures a creamy sauce to cook in.

Marinate The Shrimp:

Add shrimp to the marinade toss to coat evenly and let rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Marinating tenderizes the shrimp and allows the spices to penetrate deeply enhancing every bite.

Cook The Shrimp:

Heat a pan over medium high heat add shrimp along with marinade carefully sauté for 5 to 7 minutes stirring occasionally until shrimp turn pink and opaque. This prevents overcooking while sealing in the marinade’s flavors.

Warm The Tortillas:

While shrimp cooks warm corn tortillas over a dry pan or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds per side until soft and flexible. Warm tortillas wrap around the shrimp perfectly without cracking or breaking.

Assemble The Tacos:

Place a few shrimp in each tortilla then top with shredded cabbage and a spoonful of mango salsa. Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving. The combination of textures and flavors creates a balanced and satisfying taco experience.

I always look forward to the brightness the lime zest brings to this recipe it really brightens up the creamy coconut and spicy chili powder. Sharing these tacos in a sunny backyard with friends has made some of my favorite memories filled with laughter and casual joy.

Storage Tips

Store leftover shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge up to two days to keep textures fresh. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet with a splash of coconut milk to revive creaminess without drying out. Corn tortillas are best warmed fresh but can be wrapped in foil and reheated in the oven.

Ingredient Swaps

Firm white fish like cod or halibut can replace shrimp if preferred just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking. Use Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of coconut milk for a lighter marinade alternative. Cabbage can be swapped with shredded lettuce or thinly sliced kale for different textures.

Serving Ideas

Serve alongside a simple black bean salad or quinoa for a balanced meal. Add sliced avocado or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for creaminess and spice variation. Pair with a chilled tropical fruit punch or light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for bright acidity to complement the tacos.

These tacos provide a fresh and vibrant meal option that transforms simple ingredients into a festive dish perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

The shrimp turn pink, opaque, and curl slightly when cooked through, usually after 5-7 minutes of sautéing.

→ Can I use fresh mango salsa or store-bought?

Both fresh and store-bought mango salsa work well; fresh provides a vibrant flavor, while store-bought saves prep time.

→ What is the best way to warm the corn tortillas?

Warm tortillas over a dry pan or directly on the flame for a few seconds on each side until soft and pliable.

→ Can I substitute coconut milk with another liquid?

Coconut milk adds creaminess and subtle sweetness; a light coconut cream or a blend with milk can be alternatives, but the flavor will differ.

→ How long should the shrimp marinate?

Marinate the shrimp for 15-20 minutes to absorb the coconut and lime flavors without becoming mushy.