Shrimp Tacos With Hot Honey Slaw

Looking for a quick and flavor-packed meal that delivers big on taste without taking up your whole evening? These smoky shrimp tacos check all the boxes. Juicy shrimp coated in smoky spices, a crisp and refreshing cabbage slaw, and a creamy, spicy mayo come together in a warm tortilla for a meal that feels special—but takes 15 minutes or less to make.

What Makes These Shrimp Tacos a Must-Try?

This recipe keeps things simple, fresh, and full of bold flavors. Smoked paprika and chili powder give the shrimp a rich, smoky depth, while fresh lemon juice adds just the right amount of brightness. The cabbage slaw brings crunch and a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing out the spice. And the spicy mayo? It ties everything together with a creamy, tangy kick.

These tacos aren’t just quick; they’re completely customizable. Want more heat? Add an extra drizzle of hot sauce. Prefer a citrusy punch? Serve with extra lemon wedges. The best part? You can whip them up on a busy weeknight without breaking a sweat.

Tips for the Best Smoky Shrimp Tacos

Want to make sure your shrimp tacos turn out perfect every time? Follow these simple tips:

✔️ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook fast! Give them 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and slightly charred. Any longer, and they’ll get rubbery.

✔️ Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh shrimp, bright lemon juice, and crunchy cabbage make all the difference in keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant.

✔️ Warm the Tortillas – Heating them in a dry pan or directly over an open flame gives them a subtle char and makes them more pliable.

✔️ Let the Slaw Sit for a Few Minutes – Tossing the cabbage in hot honey, lemon juice, and olive oil lets the flavors meld and softens the slaw just enough.

✔️ Customize to Your Taste – Add pickled onions, avocado slices, or an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs to make these tacos your own.

What Makes This Recipe a Weeknight Favorite?

This meal delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner after work, an easy taco night, or a fun way to switch up your weeknight routine, these smoky shrimp tacos fit the bill.

They’re also great for meal prep—cook up the shrimp and slaw ahead of time, then assemble the tacos when you’re ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp tacos are great on their own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are a few easy sides to pair with them:

• Mexican-style street corn (Elote)

• A simple avocado salad with lime and cilantro

• Crispy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole

• Black beans and rice for a heartier meal

Conclusion

If you love tacos that are easy, flavorful, and made with fresh ingredients, this recipe is a must-try. The smoky, citrusy shrimp, crunchy slaw, and creamy, spicy mayo create the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s ready in 15 minutes—what more could you ask for?

Give these smoky shrimp tacos a try, and let me know how they turned out! Share your creations on Instagram and tag @The_Food_Dee—I’d love to see what you’re cooking.