15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. Featuring tender shrimp, a refreshing slaw, and warm corn tortillas, these tacos are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal or a fun dish to impress your friends, this recipe delivers on all fronts, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: The entire process takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and crunchy slaw ensures a delightful texture and taste in every bite.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, these tacos can easily be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Healthy Option: With lean shrimp and nutritious veggies, this recipe is both satisfying and good for you.
- Flavor Packed: The blend of spices and creamy sauce adds an exciting kick that elevates the dish.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare this delicious taco recipe efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that the shrimp cook evenly without sticking, resulting in perfectly cooked tacos.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps organize your ingredients and allows for easy mixing of sauces.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula is essential for flipping shrimp without breaking them apart during cooking.
Ingredients
This 15 Minute Shrimp Tacos Recipe features simple and fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.
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 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 along with 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine yogurt, mayo, lime juice, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Preheat your non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet. Cook until they turn pink on one side, then flip them over. Cook until they are no longer gray. For extra char, press down gently 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 the sauce you prepared earlier. Reserve some sauce for drizzling on top later. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Warm Tortillas
Warm each corn tortilla in a cast iron skillet on high heat for about 10 seconds per side while pressing down gently with your spatula.
Step 6: Assemble Tacos
Fill each tortilla with 3-4 shrimp pieces, add some slaw mixture on top, and drizzle with reserved sauce. Serve immediately while warm.
Enjoy your freshly made 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos!
How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Serving shrimp tacos can be a delightful experience, and these 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos are no exception. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your taco night.
With Fresh Sides
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavor of cilantro lime rice complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers adds protein and color.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp.
With Unique Toppings
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños enhance the tacos with a burst of freshness.
- Pickled Red Onions: The tangy crunch from pickled red onions adds a delightful contrast to the warm tacos.
- Salsa Verde: A vibrant green salsa brings an extra kick to your shrimp tacos.
With Dips
- Easy Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a favorite for dipping or slathering on tacos.
- Spicy Salsa: A bit of heat from spicy salsa can take your shrimp tacos to the next level.
How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
To make your shrimp tacos even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cooking just until pink ensures juicy, tender shrimp.
- Warm tortillas properly: Heating tortillas before filling keeps them soft and pliable for easy folding.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different salsas or cheeses for varied flavors each time.
- Make ahead of time: Prepare the slaw and sauce in advance for quicker assembly during meal time.
Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your shrimp tacos can create a complete meal. Here are some great options.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy salad with cotija cheese and chili powder that complements the spices in the tacos.
- Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for a crunchy side.
- Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy chips is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa adds a tropical twist that balances out the spice of the tacos.
- Tortilla Soup: A hearty soup makes a comforting addition to your taco feast.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini is a healthy, flavorful side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making shrimp tacos can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
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Skipping the seasoning – Failing to properly season the shrimp can lead to bland tacos. Make sure you coat the shrimp well with taco seasoning and garlic powder before cooking.
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Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
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Not warming the tortillas – Cold tortillas can make your tacos less enjoyable. Always warm them up for better flavor and texture.
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Ignoring the sauce – The sauce adds crucial flavor. Be sure to mix it well and drizzle enough on your tacos for that perfect taste.
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Using stale ingredients – Ensure all components, like coleslaw and tortillas, are fresh. Stale ingredients can lead to an unsatisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- You can freeze cooked shrimp separately in a freezer-safe bag.
- They should retain quality for about 1 month in the freezer.
Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
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Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
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Microwave – Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
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Stovetop – Warm a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos and heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you along the way.
How long does it take to prepare the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe?
The total time includes only 10 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking, making it a quick meal option.
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 can I substitute for corn tortillas?
If you prefer, flour tortillas or lettuce wraps are great alternatives depending on your dietary preference.
How spicy are these shrimp tacos?
The spice level is adjustable based on your taste. You can add more cayenne or hot sauce if you like it spicier!
Can I add more toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cheese for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet versatile enough for gatherings. Customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces to make it uniquely yours! Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 tacos per serving) 1x
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of seafood dining with this 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, these tacos feature succulent shrimp seasoned to perfection, complemented by a refreshing slaw and served in warm corn tortillas. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish that is as satisfying as it is quick. With customizable toppings and a zesty sauce, these tacos will impress family and friends alike. A healthy choice packed with nutrients, this recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover.
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 (I use avocado oil mayo)
- 1 lime (juice of)
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Pinch cayenne
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 9 corn tortillas
- Avocado oil (for frying)
- Easy guacamole (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, season shrimp with taco seasoning and set aside.
- Mix yogurt, lime juice, and additional taco seasoning in a small bowl for the sauce.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat; cook shrimp until pink.
- In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix and some sauce; toss gently.
- Warm corn tortillas in a skillet for about 10 seconds per side.
- Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with shrimp and slaw; drizzle with remaining sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
