Name: Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled & deveined); 1 1/2 limes (juiced); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1/2 avocado (cut into chunks); 1/4 purple onion (cut into thin slices); 1 cup shredded lettuce; 2/3 cup gorgonzola cheese; 2/3 cup cilantro lime dressing (store-bought or homemade); 6 small tortillas (flour recommended)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful meal that feels like a little fiesta on your plate, the Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe is exactly what you need. These tacos bring together juicy, zesty shrimp marinated in fresh lime juice and cilantro, all tucked into warm tortillas with creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, tangy purple onions, and the sharp punch of gorgonzola cheese. Topped off with a cool cilantro lime dressing, every bite bursts with brightness and texture that’s just irresistible. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe delivers on taste, ease, and that colorful, fresh appeal that makes tacos a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl in the center holds raw shrimp covered with chopped green herbs, placed on a white marbled surface. Around it, there are small white bowls filled with chopped white cheese, sliced purple onion, green lettuce, and cubed avocado. On the right, two empty lime halves are squeezed and resting next to the avocado. In the bottom right corner, a stack of soft tortillas sits on a white plate. A spoon and a white cloth with a subtle grid pattern are on the lower left side. The overall scene is bright and clean with fresh ingredients arranged neatly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is as simple as it is rewarding. Each element has been thoughtfully chosen to provide a harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that build the perfect taco experience.

1/2 lb shrimp (peeled & deveined): The star protein; fresh or thawed shrimp cook quickly and soak up the marinade beautifully.
1 1/2 limes (juiced): Provides that signature fresh citrus tang that brightens every bite.
1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Brings an herbaceous, slightly peppery note essential for the recipe’s flavor profile.
1/2 avocado (cut into chunks): Adds creamy richness and a cooling balance to the zesty shrimp.
1/4 purple onion (thinly sliced): Offers a crisp texture and a sharp, sweet bite with beautiful color contrast.
1 cup shredded lettuce: Brings crunch and freshness, while lightening the overall dish.
2/3 cup gorgonzola cheese: Adds a bold, tangy creaminess that delivers surprising depth and umami.
2/3 cup cilantro lime dressing: A tangy and herbaceous drizzle that perfectly marries all the flavors together.
6 small tortillas: Soft and warm carriers that hold all the delicious ingredients in every bite.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by combining the shrimp, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice in a large bowl. For an extra burst of citrus flavor, feel free to add some lime zest here too. Let the shrimp soak in these zesty juices for about 30 minutes—this step is optional but highly recommended as it tenderizes and infuses the shrimp with bright, tangy flavor that becomes the heart of the tacos.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook your marinated shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes just a few minutes per side, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. The skillet’s warmth will bring out the shrimp’s natural sweetness, enhanced by the citrus marinade.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

Lay out your tortillas and start with a generous spoonful of the cooked shrimp and creamy avocado chunks. Building the tacos with these first helps hold everything together while showcasing the delicate balance of protein and creaminess.

Step 4: Add the Fresh Veggies and Cheese

Layer on the thin purple onion slices and shredded lettuce next to add a crisp and tangy contrast. Sprinkle the gorgonzola cheese over the top—its bold flavor will surprise and delight your taste buds, cutting through the acidity and adding complexity.

Step 5: Drizzle the Dressing

Finish your tacos with a generous drizzle of cilantro lime dressing. While a store-bought dressing works perfectly and saves time, making your own at home can elevate the freshness and customize the flavor to your liking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your tacos with extra lime wedges on the side to squeeze over just before eating, for a final punch of brightness. Now, dig in and savor every zesty, creamy, crunchy mouthful!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe

A soft wheat tortilla lies flat on a wooden board, topped with a line of six cooked shrimp that are light pink with small green herb bits, alongside chunks of fresh green avocado. Around the board, on a white marbled surface, there is a white pan filled with more shrimp, a clear small bowl with slices of purple-red onion, a white bowl with pale yellow crumbly cheese, a white bowl with green lettuce, and a cut lime showing its bright green inside. The scene is bright and clean, showing fresh ingredients ready to be assembled. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take these tacos to the next level. A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro and a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño can add a lovely herbal lift and a touch of heat. Don’t forget a dusting of smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder for subtle smokiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Side Dishes

Keep the sides simple but complementary, like a cooling cucumber salad, some Mexican-style street corn, or even a vibrant mango salsa. These fresh sides will offer contrasting textures and temperatures that highlight the main event—the Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re planning for a party, consider serving the filling and toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their own perfect taco masterpiece. Another fun presentation idea is to use mini taco boats or lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a low-carb twist that looks as fantastic as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover shrimp or components, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep tortillas, avocado, and fresh veggies separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, we recommend freezing only the raw shrimp before marinating. Once cooked and combined in tacos, freezing can compromise the texture and freshness of the dish.

Reheating

When reheating shrimp tacos, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent rubberiness, and heat tortillas separately in a dry pan or microwave with a damp paper towel to keep them soft and pliable. Add avocado and cheese fresh to maintain their best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before marinating to ensure they absorb all the delicious flavors evenly.

Is it okay to skip the gorgonzola cheese?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of strong cheeses, you can swap it for a milder cheese like queso fresco or skip it altogether for a lighter taco.

Can I make my own cilantro lime dressing?

Definitely! A simple mix of mayonnaise, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic, salt, and a touch of honey makes a fresh and creamy dressing that outshines store-bought versions.

What type of tortillas should I use?

Small flour tortillas work perfectly here because they’re soft and pliable, but corn tortillas can also add a nice, slightly chewy texture and authentic flavor.

How spicy are these tacos?

These tacos are mild by default, focused more on fresh and tangy flavors, but you can easily add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

The Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make and bursting with fresh, zesty flavors. Whether you’re whipping up a casual weekday dinner or planning a festive gathering, these tacos bring brightness, texture, and a touch of gourmet flair to the table. I hope you dive into this recipe soon and it becomes one of your go-to favorites just as it is for me!