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Let the Good Times Roll: Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Slaw

If you’re craving bold flavor, vibrant color, and a dinner that feels like a celebration, these blackened shrimp tacos are exactly what you need. Smoky, spice-rubbed shrimp tucked into warm tortillas and topped with creamy cilantro-lime slaw create the ultimate flavor-packed bite.

Whether you’re planning Taco Tuesday or celebrating Mardi Gras, this easy shrimp taco recipe delivers big, festive flavor in just 30 minutes.

🎭 Let the Good Times Roll: A Little Fat Tuesday Fun!

When Fat Tuesday rolls around, it’s time to turn up the flavor and celebrate in true New Orleans style! Also known as Mardi Gras, this festive day marks the grand finale of Carnival season — a time for bold colors, big flavors, and joyful gatherings before the season of Lent begins.

In New Orleans, the streets come alive with music, parades, beads, and incredible food. Think spicy, smoky, zesty dishes that bring the party straight to your plate — which is exactly where these blackened shrimp tacos fit in.

🌮 Why These Blackened Shrimp Tacos Are Perfect for Fat Tuesday

Fat Tuesday is all about indulgence and flavor, and this recipe brings both:

• Bold Cajun-inspired spices coat the shrimp with smoky heat
• Cool, creamy cilantro-lime slaw adds a fresh, tangy balance
• Avocado, queso fresco, and warm tortillas make every bite feel like a celebration

These blackened shrimp tacos are festive without being fussy — perfect for hosting friends, serving family, or just treating yourself to a little midweek magic.

What Makes These Blackened Shrimp Tacos So Good?

The magic is in the contrast.

The shrimp are coated in a smoky blend of paprika, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne, then cooked over high heat to create that signature “blackened” crust. The result is juicy shrimp with a slightly charred, deeply seasoned exterior.

Pair that with crisp cabbage tossed in creamy cilantro-lime dressing, and you get the perfect balance of heat and freshness in every bite.

Add buttery avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, and a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got restaurant-style blackened shrimp tacos made right at home.

Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen

This recipe keeps things simple but flavorful.

For the Blackened Shrimp

• Shrimp tossed in olive oil
• Smoked paprika & paprika
• Garlic powder & onion powder
• Dried oregano & thyme
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt & black pepper

The spice blend creates that irresistible blackened coating.

For the Cilantro-Lime Slaw

• Greek yogurt & mayonnaise for creaminess
• Fresh lime juice for brightness
• Chopped cilantro
• Shredded green and red cabbage for crunch

The slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, smoky shrimp.

For Serving

• Warm tortillas
• Sliced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Crumbled queso fresco or feta

Each topping enhances the flavor and texture of your blackened shrimp tacos.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Crema & Slaw

Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Reserve 2 tablespoons for drizzling later. Toss the shredded cabbage with the remaining crema until lightly coated and set aside.

2. Season the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mix.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 1½–2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

4. Toast the Tortillas

Wipe out the skillet, then toast tortillas 30 seconds per side until lightly browned. Stack and cover with a towel to keep warm.

5. Assemble the Tacos

Layer slaw on each tortilla, then add shrimp, avocado slices, cilantro, cheese, and a drizzle of the reserved crema. Serve with lime wedges.

Tips for Perfect Blackened Shrimp Tacos

• Heat Control: Increase cayenne for extra spice or reduce for a milder version.
• Prep Ahead: Make the slaw and crema a day ahead for even faster assembly.
• Tortilla Tips: Corn tortillas for authenticity, or lightly oil and toast flour tortillas for extra crispness.
• Extra Flavor: Let the shrimp sit in the spice mix for 5–10 minutes before cooking to deepen flavor.

The Ultimate Pairing Guide for Blackened Shrimp Tacos

These shrimp tacos are bursting with flavor—smoky paprika shrimp, creamy cilantro-lime slaw, fresh avocado, and crumbled queso fresco. The right pairings can turn a simple meal into a full culinary experience, from drinks to dessert. Here’s how to create the perfect taco feast.

Sip It: Wine & Drink Pairings

• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp, citrusy, and refreshing; mirrors the lime in the slaw and balances the creamy avocado.
• Albariño – A subtle minerality with peachy-citrus notes pairs beautifully with seafood and smoky spices.
• Grüner Veltliner – Light, with a hint of pepper; complements paprika and cayenne without overpowering the shrimp.
• Dry Rosé – Fruit-forward yet crisp, perfect for balancing smoky and creamy flavors.
• Sparkling Wines (Prosecco or Brut Cava) – Bubbles cleanse the palate between bites and enhance citrusy, herbal notes.
• Beers & Cocktails – Light lagers, mild citrus-forward IPAs, or tequila-based margaritas/palomas add a casual, refreshing vibe.

Pair It: Sides & Salads

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Sweet, smoky, and tangy; a classic side that echoes the taco flavors.
• Black Bean & Corn Salad – Adds color, heartiness, and a hint of sweetness.
• Cilantro-Lime Rice – Light, fragrant, and perfectly complementary.
• Tortilla Chips & Salsa or Guacamole – Crunchy, creamy, and perfect for nibbling.
• Fresh Veggie Add-Ons – Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or a simple avocado & tomato salad keep the meal light and vibrant.

Top It: Toppings & Extras

• Pickled Red Onions – Add acidity to cut through creamy slaw and avocado.
• Mango or Pineapple Salsa – Sweet and tropical; balances smoky paprika and mild heat.
• Extra Avocado or Guacamole – Creamy indulgence that pairs beautifully with lime.
• Jalapeño or Serrano Slices – For anyone craving extra heat.
• Additional Sauces – Chipotle aioli or tomatillo salsa verde enhance smoky, tangy, or herbaceous flavors.

Sweet Finish: Dessert Pairings

• Key Lime Pie – Light, citrusy, and echoes the lime in the tacos.
• Mango Sorbet – Refreshing and tropical, perfect for a warm-weather meal.
• Churros with Chocolate Sauce – A fun, indulgent treat that ends the meal on a sweet note.

Balance is key. Bright, acidic drinks cut through creamy toppings, smoky spices are complemented by sweetness, and fresh sides lighten up the richness of shrimp and cheese. Together, these pairings create a vibrant, unforgettable taco night.

🎉 Make It a Mardi Gras Moment

Want to lean into the theme?

• Serve with colorful napkins in purple, green, and gold (the official Mardi Gras colors!)
• Add a splash of hot sauce for extra kick
• Pair with a refreshing lime mocktail or margarita
• Turn up some New Orleans jazz while you cook

Because Fat Tuesday isn’t just about food — it’s about joy, flavor, and gathering around the table.

So pile those shrimp high, squeeze on extra lime, and let the good times roll! 💜💚💛

Frequently Asked Questions

Are blackened shrimp tacos spicy?
They have a mild-to-medium heat. You can easily adjust the cayenne to your preference.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes — just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What goes well with blackened shrimp tacos?
Rice and beans, corn salad, chips and guacamole, or a citrusy drink all pair beautifully.

Final Bite

These blackened shrimp tacos with cilantro-lime slaw are smoky, creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor. They’re easy enough for weeknights but festive enough for Mardi Gras celebrations.

If you’re looking for a bold, crowd-pleasing shrimp taco recipe, this is it.

Let the good times roll — one taco at a time. 🌮✨

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• Slow-Cooker Pork Carnitas
• Chili Lime Shrimp Street Tacos With Orange Pico De Gallo And Avocado Crema
• Chicken Shawarma Tacos with Cucumber and Heirloom Tomato Pico De Gallo
• Simple Weeknight Beef Tacos

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These Blackened Shrimp Tacos are fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Make them once, and they’ll become a regular in your taco rotation. 🌮