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6 Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw and Lime Crema Weight Loss Recipes: Low-Calorie Mexican Dish

Last Updated on September 23, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

Are you looking for a way to satisfy your Mexican food cravings without derailing your weight loss goals?

Look no further!

Shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw and lime crema are here to save the day. This mouthwatering dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly low in calories, making it the perfect addition to your healthy eating plan.

Why Shrimp Tacos are a Weight Loss Winner

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why shrimp tacos are such a great choice for those watching their waistlines.

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of shrimp contains about 20 grams of protein and only 84 calories!

Cabbage slaw adds a satisfying crunch and is packed with nutrients while being very low in calories. The lime crema provides a creamy, zesty flavor without the excessive calories of traditional sour cream-based toppings.

The Benefits of Choosing Shrimp

Shrimp isn’t just low in calories; it’s also nutrient-dense. Here are some reasons to include shrimp in your diet:

  1. High in protein
  2. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
  3. Good source of iodine, which is important for thyroid function
  4. Contains antioxidants like astaxanthin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties

Did you know that the United States is one of the largest consumers of shrimp worldwide? On average, Americans consume about 4.6 pounds of shrimp per person annually.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show – our 6 delicious and low-calorie shrimp taco recipes!

1. Classic Baja-Style Shrimp Tacos

This recipe captures the essence of Baja California in a light, refreshing taco.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced

For the lime crema:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey

Instructions:

  1. Marinate shrimp in olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
  2. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
  3. Mix cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice for the slaw.
  4. Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, and honey for the crema.
  5. Warm tortillas and assemble tacos with shrimp, slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.

2. Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Tacos

This tropical twist adds a burst of flavor without extra calories.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

For the lime crema:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Toss shrimp, pineapple, and bell pepper with olive oil and spices.
  2. Grill the mixture in a grill basket for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Mix cabbage and cilantro for the slaw.
  4. Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and cayenne for the crema.
  5. Assemble tacos with the grilled mixture, slaw, and lime crema.

3. Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

These tacos pack a flavorful punch without the calorie overload.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tsp blackening seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage

For the mango salsa:

  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced

For the lime crema:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey

Instructions:

  1. Toss shrimp with blackening seasoning and olive oil.
  2. Cook shrimp in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
  3. Mix mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for the salsa.
  4. Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, and honey for the crema.
  5. Assemble tacos with shrimp, cabbage, mango salsa, and lime crema.

4. Zesty Lime and Cilantro Shrimp Tacos

These tacos are bursting with citrusy flavor that will make your taste buds dance.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 limes, juiced and zested
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 avocado, sliced

For the lime crema:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. Marinate shrimp in olive oil, lime juice and zest, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
  2. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
  3. Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder for the crema.
  4. Warm tortillas and assemble tacos with shrimp, cabbage, avocado slices, and lime crema.

5. Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Tacos

For those who like it hot, these tacos bring the heat without the extra calories.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

For the lime crema:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Mix olive oil, Sriracha, honey, garlic, and salt. Toss with shrimp.
  2. Cook shrimp in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
  3. Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and cilantro for the crema.
  4. Assemble tacos with spicy shrimp, cabbage, green onions, and lime crema.

6. Mediterranean-Inspired Shrimp Tacos

This fusion taco brings Mediterranean flavors to your Mexican-inspired dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the tzatziki-inspired crema:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated cucumber, squeezed dry
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried dill

Instructions:

  1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
  3. Mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cucumber, garlic, and dill for the tzatziki crema.
  4. Assemble tacos with shrimp, lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, feta, and tzatziki crema.

Tips for Making the Perfect Low-Calorie Shrimp Tacos

  1. Choose corn tortillas over flour for fewer calories and more fiber.
  2. Load up on vegetables to add volume without many calories.
  3. Use Greek yogurt as a base for your crema to boost protein and reduce fat.
  4. Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should be pink and just opaque.
  5. Experiment with different spices and herbs to keep things interesting without adding calories.

The Weight Loss Benefits of These Shrimp Taco Recipes

Each of these recipes is designed to be low in calories while still providing satisfying flavors and textures. On average, these shrimp tacos contain about 300-350 calories per serving (2 tacos), making them an excellent choice for a weight loss-friendly meal.

Moreover, these tacos are rich in protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Studies have shown that high-protein diets can lead to greater weight loss and fat loss compared to lower-protein diets.

Interestingly, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that participants who increased their protein intake to 30% of their total calories burned an additional 441 calories per day on average.

Conclusion

Incorporating these delicious and low-calorie shrimp taco recipes into your meal plan can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals without feeling deprived.

With their vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and nutritional benefits, these tacos prove that healthy eating can be both delicious and fun.

So, the next time you’re craving Mexican food, skip the high-calorie restaurant options and whip up a batch of these mouthwatering shrimp tacos instead. Your taste buds – and your waistline – will thank you!