15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With juicy shrimp, crunchy slaw, and warm corn tortillas, these tacos are sure to impress. Not only are they quick to prepare, but their vibrant flavors make them suitable for any occasion—from a family dinner to a lively taco night with friends. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prepare this meal in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful: A blend of taco seasoning and garlic enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Versatile: Customize your tacos with optional toppings like guacamole for extra flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family meals—everyone loves shrimp tacos!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Tongs
• Cast iron skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cooking of shrimp.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping shrimp and serving tacos without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

This 15 Minute Shrimp Tacos Recipe with slaw and spicy juicy shrimp, wrapped in warm corn tortilla has the best taste and texture.

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled & deveined (I left tails on))
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Slaw

• 14 ounces bag of coleslaw (or 3 cups shredded cabbage)
• 1/2 small bunch cilantro (finely chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (2%+ fat)
• 1/4 cup mayo (I use avocado oil mayo)
• 1 lime (juice of)
• 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
• Pinch cayenne

For Assembly

• 9 corn tortillas
• Avocado oil (for frying)
• Easy guacamole (optional)

How to Make 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, add the shrimp, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine yogurt, mayo, lime juice, additional taco seasoning, cayenne, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Preheat your non-stick skillet on high heat. Add avocado oil as needed. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink on one side; flip them over to cook through. For added char, press down gently with a spatula while cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Slaw Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together coleslaw, chopped cilantro, salt, and most of the sauce—set aside some sauce for drizzling later. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Heat up each corn tortilla in a cast iron skillet over high heat for about 10 seconds per side. Press down gently with a spatula to warm thoroughly.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos

Fill each warmed tortilla with 3-4 pieces of shrimp followed by some slaw mixture. Drizzle with reserved sauce before serving immediately. Enjoy!

How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

These shrimp tacos are not only quick to prepare, but they also offer a delightful blend of flavors. Serving them in various ways can enhance your dining experience.

Fresh Ingredients

• Lime wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for a zesty kick.
• Extra cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness and flavor.

Accompaniments

• Easy guacamole – This creamy dip pairs perfectly with the spicy shrimp and adds richness.
• Salsa verde – A tangy salsa that complements the shrimp and slaw beautifully.

Drinks

• Margaritas – Classic margaritas provide a refreshing contrast to the flavors of the tacos.
• Mexican soda – These sweet, fizzy drinks are a fun way to cool down while enjoying your meal.

Garnishes

• Radish slices – Thinly sliced radishes add crunch and a peppery flavor.
• Creamy sauce drizzle – Use any leftover sauce from the recipe as a finishing touch for extra creaminess.

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How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Perfecting your shrimp tacos is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your cooking game.

• Choose fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp will have better flavor and texture, making your tacos even tastier.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – Cook until just pink for juicy, tender shrimp; overcooking can lead to rubbery textures.
• Warm tortillas properly – Warming tortillas in a cast iron skillet enhances their flavor and pliability.
• Mix slaw well – Ensure all ingredients in the slaw are evenly combined for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Customize seasoning – Feel free to adjust taco seasoning according to your spice preference for a personalized touch.
• Serve immediately – Enjoy right after assembling for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Completing your meal with side dishes can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to serve alongside your tacos.

1. Mexican rice – A flavorful side that adds heartiness and pairs well with shrimp tacos.
2. Refried beans – Creamy beans complement the crunchy slaw and juicy shrimp perfectly.
3. Grilled corn on the cob – Sweet corn brushed with lime butter enhances the Mexican theme of your meal.
4. Chips and salsa – Crispy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa provide a crunchy contrast.
5. Black bean salad – A light salad full of protein that balances out the richness of the tacos.
6. Zucchini fritters – These crispy bites add another layer of flavor and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few important steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp adequately can lead to bland tacos. Ensure you coat the shrimp evenly with taco seasoning and garlic powder before cooking.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes.
• Neglecting the tortillas: Cold or unheated tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side before filling them.
• Using too much sauce: Adding excess sauce can make your tacos soggy. Drizzle lightly and reserve some sauce for serving on the side.
• Forgetting about texture: A good taco has a balance of textures. Ensure you include crunchy slaw alongside juicy shrimp for an enjoyable bite.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• You can freeze cooked shrimp separately from the slaw.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat tacos for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat at medium power for 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, warming each side of the tortilla for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

How can I customize my 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe?

You can add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cheese to personalize your tacos. Choose what you love!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and cooking.

What type of tortillas should I use?

Corn tortillas are traditional and add great flavor, but flour tortillas can also be used if preferred.

How spicy are these shrimp tacos?

The spice level depends on the amount of cayenne you add. Adjust it according to your taste preference!

Final Thoughts

This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is not only quick but also versatile enough to cater to different tastes. Feel free to customize it with various toppings or sauces. Enjoy these delightful tacos any night of the week!