Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Ingredient Notes

For the Shrimp

• Large shrimp: Shrimp is the star of the dish, bringing a tender, juicy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Make sure it’s raw, peeled, and deveined.
• Olive oil or avocado oil: This is used to sauté the shrimp, adding a subtle richness and preventing sticking; swap with coconut oil or ghee if needed.
• Smoked paprika: Brings a warm, smoky depth of flavor that compliments the shrimp beautifully. Regular paprika can work if smoked isn’t available.
• Garlic powder: Adds an earthy, savory kick to the seasoning mix, enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavor. Fresh minced garlic works as a substitute.
• Onion powder: Provides a sweet, aromatic base to round out the seasoning.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Brings a touch of heat to the dish for those who like it spicy. Red pepper flakes or hot sauce can be used instead.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the shrimp. No substitutions here, use it to taste!

Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

• Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the sauce with added protein. Sub with blended cottage cheese, or dairy-free yogurt for dietary needs.
• Mayonnaise: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce. Use a vegan mayo if needed.
• Coconut aminos or tamari: Brings a salty umami flavor that ties the sauce together. Soy sauce works if you don’t need it to be gluten-free.
• Garlic powder: Infuses a mild garlic flavor that compliments the tanginess of the sauce. Use fresh garlic if preferred.
• Sriracha sauce: Adds the signature kick of heat and sweetness that makes bang bang sauce so irresistible. Use another chili sauce or hot sauce if needed.
• Rice vinegar: Brightens the sauce with a tangy, slightly sweet note. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used instead.
• Honey or preferred sweetener: Balances the heat and acidity with a touch of sweetness. Swap with maple syrup, agave, or a sugar-free alternative.

Cilantro Lime Creamy Coleslaw

• Bagged coleslaw mix: Makes this slaw quick and easy, adding a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the shrimp. Shredded purple cabbage (or regular if you prefer) and carrots work as a DIY option.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the slaw. Sub with parsley or skip if you’re not a cilantro fan.
• Lime, juiced: Adds a zesty, tangy flavor that ties the slaw to the tacos. Lemon juice is an easy swap if you’re out of lime.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity and a slight sweetness for balance in the slaw. White vinegar or rice vinegar works in a pinch.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Elevates and balances the flavors in the slaw.

Tacos

• Small corn tortillas: Sub with white corn tortillas, flour tortillas, lettuce wraps, or grain-free tortillas if needed.
• Optional toppings: Sliced avocado, green onion, diced tomatoes, sour cream (if not dairy-free), jalapeños, and extra cilantro. Mix and match to suit your taste!

 For exact ingredient amounts and instructions, see the printable recipe card below.