15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

The 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of shrimp with crunchy slaw, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers on taste and speed. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a fulfilling meal that satisfies both your cravings and your time constraints. With its juicy shrimp and vibrant toppings, this taco recipe stands out as a go-to for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spicy shrimp and fresh slaw creates a lively taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: Great for dinner parties, family meals, or even a casual lunch, these tacos suit every occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, these tacos are a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help ensure efficiency and quality in your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: This helps prevent the shrimp from sticking, ensuring they cook evenly and are easy to flip.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls for mixing ingredients keeps your prep organized and makes combining flavors easier.

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)

Additional Ingredients

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

How to Make 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

In a medium bowl, add shrimp along with taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, mayo, lime juice, additional taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and ground black pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Preheat your non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink on one side; then flip them over. Cook until they are no longer gray. For added char, press down gently with a spatula while cooking.

Step 4: Mix the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix, chopped cilantro, salt, and most of the prepared sauce—reserve some sauce for drizzling later. Gently stir to combine.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

Warm tortillas in a cast-iron skillet over high heat for about ten seconds on each side while pressing down slightly with a spatula.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos

Fill each tortilla with 3-4 pieces of shrimp, top with slaw mixture, and drizzle remaining sauce over everything. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!

How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Serving your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that can complement the flavors of your tacos.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime over the tacos for a zesty kick that enhances the shrimp’s flavor.

Sliced Jalapeños

• Add slices of fresh jalapeños for an extra layer of heat and crunch.

Chopped Fresh Cilantro

• Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top to brighten up the dish with its aromatic flavor.

Avocado Slices

• Serve with creamy avocado slices for a rich, buttery texture that balances the spices.

Pickled Red Onions

• Include pickled red onions for a tangy and sweet contrast to the savory shrimp.

Easy Guacamole

• A side of easy guacamole offers creaminess that pairs beautifully with shrimp tacos.

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How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

To achieve the best results with your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides better flavor and texture than frozen varieties.
• Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the taco seasoning according to your spice tolerance.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like mango salsa or crumbled queso fresco to add variety.
• Warm tortillas properly: Warming tortillas correctly prevents them from tearing and enhances their flavor.
• Cook shrimp quickly: Avoid overcooking by ensuring shrimp turns pink, which indicates they are done.
• Customize slaw: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to your slaw mixture for added crunch and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices is a classic companion.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad mixes flavors and textures perfectly with tacos.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a great starter.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled veggies add color and nutrition alongside your tacos.
6. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This healthy grain side is flavorful and complements the main dish well.
7. Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup can provide warmth and depth to your dinner table.
8. Mango Pico de Gallo: Sweet mango salsa adds a delightful twist that pairs nicely with shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making shrimp tacos can be quick and easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Using overcooked shrimp: Overcooking shrimp makes them tough. Cook until they are just pink and opaque.
• Skipping the seasoning: Shrimp can be bland without seasoning. Always use taco seasoning and other spices for flavor.
• Not warming the tortillas: Cold tortillas can break easily. Warm them in a skillet to improve texture and taste.
• Neglecting the sauce: A good sauce adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip it; drizzle generously on your tacos.
• Ignoring freshness: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Use fresh shrimp, cilantro, and lime juice for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Keep the slaw and sauce separate from the shrimp if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• You can freeze cooked shrimp separately or as assembled tacos.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, heat on medium for about 5 minutes until warmed through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish.

What is included in the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe?

This recipe includes juicy shrimp seasoned with taco spices, fresh slaw, and a creamy sauce all wrapped in warm corn tortillas.

Can I customize my shrimp tacos?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like salsa, cheese, or jalapeños based on your preferences.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe features lean protein from shrimp and plenty of veggies from the slaw, making it a nutritious choice.

How do I make these shrimp tacos spicy?

To add spice, consider using spicy taco seasoning or adding sliced jalapeños directly into the tacos.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even seasoning and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

The 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste. Whether you’re having a casual dinner or hosting friends, these tacos will surely impress everyone. Give them a try and enjoy!