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Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sauce

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tbsp)
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Juice of 1/2 lime (about 1 tbsp)
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 8-12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: shredded cabbage, diced avocado, cotija cheese

Instructions
 

  • Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, juice of 1/2 lime, 1 tbsp chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  • Cook the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Sear the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink, opaque, and curled into a 'C' shape. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Finish with Lime and Cilantro: Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the juice of 1 large lime and the 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, tossing to coat the shrimp.
  • Warm Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet, over a gas flame, or in the microwave until soft and pliable.
  • Assemble: Fill each warm tortilla with a few pieces of shrimp. Drizzle with the creamy sauce and add your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Make sure your shrimp are completely dry before seasoning and cooking. This is the key to getting a good sear instead of steaming them.
Keyword Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos, seafood