15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. With juicy shrimp seasoned to perfection, crisp slaw, and warm corn tortillas, these tacos are sure to impress. The best part? You can whip them up in just 15 minutes! Ideal for busy nights yet delicious enough for special occasions, this recipe combines flavor and convenience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy days.
• Packed with Flavor: The spicy shrimp combined with fresh slaw delivers a taste explosion.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your toppings or add your favorite sauces for a unique twist each time.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, these tacos fit well into a balanced diet.
• Great for Any Meal: Serve them as lunch, dinner, or even at parties; they are always a hit!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother, especially when you’re in a hurry. Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe shine.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures easy cooking and flipping of shrimp without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively and keeps everything organized.

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
• Ground black pepper (to taste)

For Assembling

• 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 shrimp along with taco seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

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

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Preheat your non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook until they turn pink on one side. Flip them over and cook until they are no longer gray. For added char flavor, press down on the shrimp with a spatula while cooking. Alternatively, grill the shrimp on high heat using a silicone grill mat.

Step 4: Prepare the Slaw Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together coleslaw, chopped cilantro, salt, and most of the sauce you prepared earlier—leave some aside for drizzling later. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

In a cast iron skillet over high heat, warm each corn tortilla for about 10 seconds on each side while pressing down with a spatula.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Fill each tortilla with 3-4 pieces of cooked shrimp followed by some slaw mixture. Drizzle with additional sauce if desired. Serve immediately for best results!

How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Serving your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos is all about enhancing the flavors and textures of the dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delightful tacos.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Lime wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors.
• Chopped jalapeños – For those who like a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños.
• Diced tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes add a juicy pop and color.

Pair with Drinks

• Margaritas – A refreshing margarita complements the shrimp tacos perfectly.
• Iced tea – Sweetened or unsweetened iced tea makes for a nice non-alcoholic option.
• Sparkling water – A bubbly drink cleanses the palate between bites.

Create a Taco Bar

• DIY taco station – Set up a taco bar with various toppings, allowing guests to customize their own tacos.
• Variety of salsas – Offer different salsa options like mango, pico de gallo, or tomatillo for added flavor.

Serve with Dips

• Easy guacamole – Creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully with shrimp tacos for added richness.
• Salsa verde – This tangy sauce adds a nice contrast to the shrimp’s sweetness.

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How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

To make your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos even better, consider these helpful tips.

• seasoning – Don’t be shy with the taco seasoning; it enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh cilantro and lime will elevate the taste significantly.
• Don’t overcook shrimp – Cook until just pink to keep them tender and juicy.
• Warm tortillas properly – This prevents them from tearing and improves overall texture.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding mango salsa or pickled onions for an extra twist.
• Make ahead for parties – Prepare sauces and slaw earlier for quick assembly when serving guests.

Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your delicious shrimp tacos can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the tacos nicely.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with lime and chili powder brings sweet crunchiness.
4. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad packed with protein that balances the meal well.
5. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a fun starter.
6. Guacamole Salad – A light salad that combines avocado, tomatoes, and onions for freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp adequately can lead to bland tacos. Use taco seasoning generously for full flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Ignoring the slaw: A good slaw is essential for texture and taste. Don’t skip it; it adds crunch and freshness.
• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can ruin the experience. Warm them up briefly before assembling your tacos for the best taste.
• Not saving sauce for drizzling: Skipping the drizzle of sauce means missing out on added flavor. Always reserve some sauce to top your tacos before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the components separate (shrimp, slaw, tortillas) if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• Freeze cooked shrimp separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Slaw should be eaten fresh, as it doesn’t freeze well.

Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat shrimp in 30-second intervals until warm, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Quickly sauté in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe that might help you prepare this dish perfectly.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.

How can I make my own taco seasoning?

Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a homemade taco seasoning blend.

What toppings go well with these shrimp tacos?

Consider adding diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or additional cilantro for extra flavor. Sliced radishes also add a nice crunch!

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, try different proteins or add more vegetables!

Final Thoughts

This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is not only fast but also incredibly delicious. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—dinner with family or a casual get-together with friends. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal!