If you're craving something fresh and lively, these Zesty Shrimp Tacos are a must-try. With their crispy coating and flavorful lime slaw, they perfectly blend textures and bold flavors. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Shrimp is the star of the show, providing a delicate sweetness and a perfect base for our zesty flavors. Cornmeal and all-purpose flour form the crispy coating, while paprika and cayenne pepper add warmth and a bit of heat. The shredded cabbage offers crunch and freshness, balanced by a creamy mayonnaise dressing brightened with fresh lime juice. A touch of honey adds sweetness, and cilantro brings a pop of herby goodness. Corn tortillas are the perfect vessel to wrap it all up.
Pair these tacos with a side of black beans or a fresh corn salad to keep the meal light and vibrant. A cold, crisp beer or a citrusy margarita would complement the flavors perfectly.
Start by mixing the coating for your shrimp. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. This mixture should be well blended to ensure even coating on the shrimp.
Next, dredge the peeled and deveined shrimp in the dry mixture, making sure each piece is fully covered. This coating will give the shrimp a lovely, crispy texture once cooked.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, cook the shrimp in batches, ensuring they have enough space to fry and become crispy without steaming. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
While the shrimp is cooking, you can prepare the lime slaw. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of honey. This dressing will coat the cabbage beautifully, adding a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
Toss the shredded cabbage with the dressing and add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro. This slaw should be vibrant and packed with flavor, ready to complement the spicy shrimp.
Warm your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable. This step ensures they won't crack when you fold them around your delicious fillings.
To assemble the tacos, place a few shrimp on each tortilla, then top with a generous amount of lime slaw. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
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