Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

These Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa are a burst of vibrant, tropical flavor in every bite! The smoky, spicy jerk shrimp paired with the sweet, tangy pineapple salsa is a combination you’ll never forget. It’s a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, wrapped up in a soft tortilla that’s just waiting to be devoured. Whether you’re serving these at a summer BBQ, hosting a taco night, or simply craving something fresh and exciting, these tacos will hit the spot. Trust me, once you taste that jerk seasoning with the zing of pineapple, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

These tacos aren’t just about great flavor—they’re a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Bold and Flavorful

The jerk seasoning on the shrimp gives these tacos a spicy kick, while the pineapple salsa brings a refreshing sweetness that balances everything perfectly. The result? A taco that’s flavorful in all the right ways.

Quick and Easy

You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to make these! With a short prep time and minimal cooking, you can whip these up in no time. It’s a win for busy nights or spontaneous taco cravings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making a casual dinner for yourself, hosting a get-together with friends, or planning a summer fiesta, these tacos are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Light but Satisfying

These tacos are light and fresh, but still super satisfying. The shrimp is lean protein, the salsa adds a burst of flavor, and the tortillas are just the right base for everything to come together.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa:

For the Jerk Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pineapple Salsa:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tacos:

• 8 small soft flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Extra cilantro, for garnish
• Crema or sour cream (optional, for drizzling)

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to make these Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa:

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss until the shrimp is evenly coated in the seasoning. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Salsa

While the shrimp is marinating, make the pineapple salsa. In a small bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything together. Set aside and let the flavors meld while you cook the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cooks quickly!

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or on a grill for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and slightly charred.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

To assemble, place a few shrimp on each warm tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of pineapple salsa. For extra flavor, drizzle with crema or sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side and enjoy this explosion of flavor!

(Note: The full instructions, including specific times, are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 (2 tacos per serving)
Calories per serving: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 160mg
Sodium: 890mg
Total Carbohydrates: 39g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 11g
Protein: 26g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

These Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa are absolutely delicious on their own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with a Side Salad

Pair these tacos with a crisp green salad or a simple coleslaw for some extra crunch and freshness.

Add a Side of Rice

Serve these tacos with a side of cilantro-lime rice or Mexican street corn for a fuller meal. The rice adds a great balance to the spicy shrimp.

Drink Pairings

These tacos go wonderfully with a cold margarita or a refreshing iced tea. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a tall glass of limeade would be the perfect match!

Extra Garnishes

Feel free to add extra garnishes like avocado slices, pickled red onions, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make your Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa even better:

• Make it spicier: If you like more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp marinade.
• Grill the shrimp: For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet.
• Customize the salsa: You can switch up the pineapple with other fruits like mango or papaya for a different twist.
• Meal prep: The jerk shrimp and pineapple salsa can both be made ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the tacos when you’re ready to eat.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure to thaw them properly in the fridge before marinating.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the shrimp and salsa ahead of time, but it’s best to warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos right before serving.

Q3: Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?
A3: Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.

Q4: How spicy is the jerk seasoning?
A4: The jerk seasoning has a bit of a kick, but it’s not overwhelming. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of seasoning or omit the jalapeño in the salsa.

Q5: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
A5: Absolutely! Corn tortillas would add a nice authentic touch to the tacos and are perfect if you prefer a gluten-free option.

Q6: Can I add cheese to these tacos?
A6: Of course! Cotija cheese or cheddar would pair wonderfully with the jerk shrimp.

Q7: Can I use canned pineapple for the salsa?
A7: Fresh pineapple is ideal for this recipe, but if canned pineapple is all you have, make sure to drain it well before using it in the salsa.

Q8: Can I use store-bought jerk seasoning?
A8: Yes, store-bought jerk seasoning is fine! Just make sure to check the flavor and adjust it to your liking.

Q9: Can I make these tacos without cilantro?
A9: Definitely! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to leave it out or substitute it with parsley.

Q10: How do I store leftovers?
A10: Store the shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Warm the shrimp before serving.

Conclusion

These Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa are a flavor-packed, refreshing, and easy-to-make meal that will make any taco night extra special. With the bold heat of the jerk seasoning and the sweetness of the pineapple salsa, these tacos are the perfect balance of spicy and sweet. Add some lime wedges and fresh cilantro, and you’re in taco heaven! You’ll be making these over and over again—guaranteed! Enjoy!

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