15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

The 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Featuring spicy, juicy shrimp wrapped in warm corn tortillas and topped with a crunchy slaw, these tacos are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for taco night, parties, or a simple family dinner, this recipe shines with its delightful textures and vibrant ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip up this dish in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spicy shrimp and fresh slaw offers a delicious burst of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your tacos by adding toppings like guacamole or extra veggies based on your preferences.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, these tacos are a nutritious option for dinner.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal cookware needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning up after enjoying this delightful meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Having these items will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Spatula
• Cast iron skillet (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures that the shrimp cooks evenly without sticking, allowing for easy flipping and cleanup.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing the shrimp with seasonings without making a mess.
• Small bowl: Useful for preparing your creamy sauce that adds flavor to the tacos.

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)
• 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 Assembly:

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

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (2%+ fat)
• 1/4 cup mayo (preferably avocado oil mayo)
• 1 lime (juice of)
• 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
• Pinch cayenne
• Ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, add shrimp along with 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine and set aside while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

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

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Preheat a large non-stick skillet on high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink on one side; then flip them over and cook until no longer gray. If you prefer a charred flavor, press down on the shrimp with a spatula while cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix, chopped cilantro, salt, and most of your prepared sauce. Reserve some sauce for drizzling later. Gently stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

To assemble your tacos, warm each corn tortilla in a cast iron skillet over high heat for about 10 seconds per side while pressing down lightly with your spatula.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos

Fill each tortilla with 3-4 pieces of cooked shrimp followed by some slaw. Drizzle reserved sauce on top if desired. Serve immediately for best taste!

How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

These 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos are a delightfully quick and delicious meal. With vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch, they can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Taco Bar

• Set up a taco bar with all the components of the dish. Allow guests to assemble their tacos with shrimp, slaw, and sauces according to their preferences.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges alongside the tacos for an added burst of freshness. Squeezing lime juice over the tacos elevates their flavor profile significantly.

Extra Cilantro

• Provide a small bowl of finely chopped cilantro for those who enjoy its fresh taste. Cilantro pairs beautifully with the shrimp and slaw.

Spicy Salsa

• Offer a side of spicy salsa for dipping or drizzling. This adds an extra kick that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Pickled Red Onions

• Pickled red onions add a tangy crunch that contrasts well with the creamy slaw. They are easy to prepare and can brighten up any taco.

Easy Guacamole

• Include a small dish of easy guacamole for those who love avocados. Its creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp.

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How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

To ensure your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture of your tacos.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook until just pink; overcooking makes them tough. Flipping once is ideal for perfect cooking.
• Warm tortillas properly: Make sure your tortillas are warm before filling to prevent tearing and enhance flavor.
• Customize slaw: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for additional crunch and color in your slaw.

Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy, tangy salad with grilled corn, cilantro, and cheese that complements the tacos perfectly.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado that adds protein and fiber.
3. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños create a zesty salsa that enhances each bite.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime juice offers a mild backdrop to the bold flavors of the tacos.
5. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with homemade guacamole make for a classic pairing that’s always a hit.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add great flavor as a side dish while keeping it healthy.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or chili powder is a simple yet delightful side.
8. Refried Beans: Smooth refried beans offer creaminess that balances well against crunchy tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, there are a few common missteps that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp properly can lead to bland tacos. Be sure to use taco seasoning and garlic powder for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking. Cook until just pink and opaque for the best texture.
• Ignoring tortilla quality: Using low-quality tortillas can take away from your dish. Opt for fresh corn tortillas for an authentic taste.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice elevate your tacos. Always use fresh ingredients when possible for better flavor.
• Making too much slaw in advance: Preparing slaw too early can lead to sogginess. Mix it right before serving for the best crunch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• Freeze shrimp separately from tortillas and slaw.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain quality.
• Best used within 1 month.

Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, but be cautious as this can make tortillas chewy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to create steam, which helps rehydrate the tortillas.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

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.

What toppings pair well with shrimp tacos?

Consider adding toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

How do I customize my slaw?

You can add ingredients like grated carrots or sliced radishes to give your slaw more color and crunch.

What is the best way to serve these tacos?

Serve them immediately after assembling with a side of guacamole or a fresh salsa for added zest!

Final Thoughts

This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is not only quick but also incredibly delicious! The combination of spicy shrimp with refreshing slaw wrapped in soft tortillas makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or sauces to make it uniquely yours!