15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
The 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This dish shines with its spicy, juicy shrimp and a refreshing slaw, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also delivers vibrant flavors that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or just need a delicious dinner option, these shrimp tacos are sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of taco seasoning and fresh ingredients creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the toppings or swap shrimp for your favorite protein, making it suitable for various diets.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these shrimp tacos fit right in.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Medium bowl
- Small bowl
- Spatula
- Cast iron skillet (optional)
- Silicone grill mat (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents shrimp from sticking, ensuring easy cooking and cleanup.
- Spatula: Ideal for flipping the shrimp without breaking them apart.
- Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing shrimp with spices before cooking.
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 (preferably avocado oil mayo)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Pinch cayenne
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
For Serving
- 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 along with 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the shrimp are well coated. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine yogurt, mayo, lime juice, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and ground black pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Preheat your non-stick skillet on high heat. Add avocado oil to coat the bottom lightly. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook until they turn pink at the bottom; then flip them over to cook until fully opaque. For extra char, press down on them gently with a spatula as they cook.
Step 4: Prepare the Slaw
In a large bowl, mix together coleslaw mix, cilantro, salt, and almost all of your prepared sauce—reserve some for drizzling later. Gently stir until combined.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
Heat your cast iron skillet on high. Warm each tortilla for about 10 seconds per side while pressing down slightly with a spatula.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
Fill each warmed tortilla with 3-4 pieces of cooked shrimp, a generous scoop of slaw mixture, and drizzle with remaining sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor!
How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
These 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos are perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Salsa
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a zesty kick.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa complements the shrimp beautifully.
On a Bed of Greens
- Lettuce Wraps: Instead of tortillas, serve the shrimp on crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Place tacos on top of a salad for added crunch and nutrition.
Toppings Galore
- Sour Cream: Add a dollop for creaminess that balances the spices.
- Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the tacos.
With Extra Lime Wedges
- Fresh Lime Wedges: Squeeze over tacos just before eating for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
To make your cooking experience smooth and ensure delicious results, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Quality Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy preparation.
- Preheat Your Skillet Properly: A hot skillet ensures the shrimp cook quickly and develop a nice char.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to avoid steaming them instead of searing.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning according to your preference while cooking to achieve the best flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your shrimp tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the tacos perfectly.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and pairs well with spicy flavors.
- Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh guacamole make for a delightful appetizer.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, and lime dressing offers a nutritious boost.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection provide a colorful and healthy side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making shrimp tacos can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. To avoid a rubbery texture, cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to season shrimp can lead to bland tacos. A quick marinade with taco seasoning enhances flavor.
- Not Warming Tortillas: Cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Always warm them up for better taste and texture.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect the overall dish. Opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality sauces for best results.
- Ignoring Garnishes: Tacos without toppings can be dull. Fresh cilantro, lime juice, or avocado elevate your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked shrimp tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep slaw and sauce in separate containers to maintain freshness.
Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Freeze shrimp tacos without toppings or slaw wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers for best results.
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.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely before cooking for best results.
What can I substitute for corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas work well as a substitute if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
To add more heat, include diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper in the slaw or on top of the tacos.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free corn tortillas, this recipe is entirely gluten-free.
Can I customize the toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add avocado, salsa, or any other favorite toppings to personalize your tacos.
Final Thoughts
The 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor. This dish is versatile enough to suit various tastes; feel free to customize it with different toppings or spices. Try making these scrumptious tacos tonight!
15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos total) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. This dish features succulent shrimp seasoned with taco spices, complemented by a refreshing slaw and wrapped in warm corn tortillas. In just 15 minutes, you can create a meal that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or looking for a satisfying dinner option, these shrimp tacos are sure to hit the spot!
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 14 ounces bag of coleslaw (or 3 cups shredded cabbage)
- 1/2 small bunch cilantro (finely chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (2%+ fat)
- 1/4 cup mayo (preferably avocado oil mayo)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Pinch cayenne
- 9 corn tortillas
- Avocado oil (for frying)
- Easy guacamole (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with taco seasoning and garlic powder; set aside.
- Mix yogurt, mayo, lime juice, and spices in another bowl for the sauce; set aside.
- Preheat a skillet on high heat with avocado oil; cook shrimp until pink and opaque.
- Toss coleslaw mix with cilantro and most of the sauce in a large bowl.
- Warm tortillas in a hot skillet for about 10 seconds per side.
- Assemble tacos with shrimp, slaw mixture, and drizzle remaining sauce on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
