15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful meal that transports your taste buds straight to the coast, these 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Tacos with Slaw are exactly what you need. Combining succulent shrimp seasoned with a garlicky, smoky blend and a crisp, refreshing slaw, this recipe is a weeknight winner. Whether you’re a taco enthusiast or just looking for a fresh twist on seafood, these tacos will satisfy your hunger and impress your family or friends with minimal effort.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Bright, fresh flavors: The zesty lime juice and crunchy slaw balance the richness of the shrimp.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create a standout dish.
• Versatile meal: Perfect for casual dinners, quick lunches, or even entertaining guests.
• Light yet satisfying: Corn tortillas keep it gluten-free and light, while the shrimp provide protein.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, quick-cooking and tender.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the shrimp cook evenly.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Vital for that punch of aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a subtle smoky heat without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy warmth that complements the chili powder.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
• 8 small corn tortillas: The perfect vessel for holding all the delicious fillings.
• 2 cups shredded green cabbage: Crunchy and fresh, for the slaw base.
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and color to the slaw.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Bright, herbaceous notes that lift the dish.
• 1 lime, juiced: Adds acidity and brightness to the slaw and shrimp.
• 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy texture that balances the tangy slaw and spicy shrimp.

Appliances & Accessories

• Skillet or frying pan: Needed to quickly sauté the shrimp with garlic and spices.
• Mixing bowl: To toss together the slaw ingredients.
• Citrus juicer or reamer: Makes juicing the lime effortless.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping shrimp, chopping cilantro, tomatoes, and slicing avocado.
• Spatula or tongs: To turn the shrimp and warm the tortillas.

15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Tacos with Slaw: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the shrimp

Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat them dry. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if needed, cook in batches. Remove shrimp from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the slaw

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and the juice of one lime. Toss everything together until the cabbage is well coated and the flavors meld. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Warm the tortillas

Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the tacos

Layer each tortilla with a handful of slaw, a few garlic shrimp, and top with sliced avocado. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add sliced radishes for an extra peppery crunch in spring.
• Mix in diced mango or pineapple for a hint of tropical sweetness in summer.
• Sprinkle toasted pepitas or pumpkin seeds for fall texture and nuttiness.
• Include pickled red onions to add tangy depth during winter months.

Notes on Ingredients

• The shrimp should be fresh or fully thawed if frozen to ensure even cooking.
• Using fresh garlic is key—avoid pre-minced garlic for the best flavor.
• Corn tortillas can be swapped for flour tortillas if preferred, but corn adds a lovely authentic touch.
• Feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin quantities to suit your spice tolerance.
• Ripe avocado slices add creaminess but can be replaced with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the textures and flavors fully. However, you can prepare the seasoned shrimp ahead of time and freeze them raw in an airtight container for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and cook as directed. The slaw and avocado are not suitable for freezing as they lose their texture and freshness.

Reader Q&A

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! To kick up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to the shrimp seasoning. You can also drizzle your tacos with a hot sauce of choice or add sliced fresh chili to the slaw.

What can I substitute for cabbage in the slaw?

If you’re not a fan of cabbage or don’t have any on hand, shredded kale, napa cabbage, or even thinly sliced lettuce work well. Each will bring a different texture and flavor but still provide that refreshing crunch.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling your tacos again. Tortillas are best stored at room temperature wrapped in a clean towel.

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Yes! Using corn tortillas as in the recipe makes these tacos naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional toppings or sauces you use are also gluten-free to keep it safe.

Weekend Projects

• Mini Taco Bites – A fun appetizer idea featuring bite-sized tacos perfect for parties.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Tortellini Bake – A comforting and flavorful shrimp dish with a creamy twist.
• Garlic Parm Air Fryer Flatbread Chips – A crispy, garlicky snack that pairs wonderfully with tacos or dips.

Let’s Eat

These 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Tacos with Slaw come together fast, making them perfect for any night when you want a fresh, satisfying meal without the fuss. The balance of garlicky shrimp, crisp cabbage slaw, zesty lime, and creamy avocado slices means every bite bursts with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving them up for a quick family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or sides to make it your own. Pair with a cold drink and perhaps some crispy flatbread chips for a complete fiesta on your plate. Ready in a flash and packed with bold flavors, these tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

Share on Pinterest