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Blackened Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Easy Homemade Fresh Slaw

blackened cajun shrimp tacos - featured image

These blackened Cajun shrimp tacos feature a bold, smoky seasoning paired with a fresh, tangy slaw. Quick and easy to prepare, they make a flavorful weeknight meal or casual gathering favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium to large size)
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
  • ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
  • Avocado slices or guacamole, for topping
  • Extra lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Toss shrimp with olive oil until lightly coated, then sprinkle seasoning mix evenly over shrimp. Ensure each piece is well coated. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
  5. Pour dressing over veggies, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently. Stir in chopped cilantro last. Refrigerate slaw while cooking shrimp.
  6. Heat skillet over medium-high heat until very hot but not smoking. Add oil if needed.
  7. Place seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and blackened. Avoid overcrowding.
  8. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a kitchen towel and heating in a dry skillet for 20-30 seconds per side or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds.
  9. Assemble tacos by layering shrimp on tortillas, topping with fresh slaw, avocado slices or guacamole, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before seasoning for better blackened crust. Avoid overcrowding pan to ensure even cooking. Flip shrimp only once. Slaw can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated. Use corn or almond flour tortillas for gluten-free option. Adjust cayenne and jalapeño for desired spice level.

Nutrition

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