Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

If you’re looking to kick up your taco game, Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are here to steal the spotlight! These tacos are a vibrant fusion of heat and sweetness, with tender shrimp tossed in a flavorful spicy seasoning, complemented by a refreshing, juicy mango salsa. The combination of spicy shrimp with the cool, tropical fruit salsa is absolutely irresistible. Every bite is a burst of flavors and textures—crispy, creamy, tangy, and spicy—everything you want in a taco!

These tacos are not only packed with flavor but are also quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend dinner. Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll be making them all the time. Get ready to fall in love with these tropical-inspired tacos!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Bold, Flavorful Shrimp

The shrimp are seasoned with a perfect mix of spices, making them bold, spicy, and savory. They’re the perfect base for these tacos.

Refreshing Mango Salsa

The sweet and tangy mango salsa balances out the spice from the shrimp, adding a refreshing, tropical twist that will make your taste buds dance.

Quick & Easy

This recipe comes together in just 20-30 minutes, so it’s ideal for a fast weeknight dinner or an easy meal for guests. No need to spend hours in the kitchen!

Customizable

You can adjust the level of heat in the shrimp to your liking—add more chili for an extra kick, or tone it down if you prefer something milder. You can also swap the mango for pineapple if you want a different tropical flavor.

Perfect for Taco Night

If you’re looking for something that’s a little different from your standard beef or chicken tacos, these shrimp tacos will add a fun, fresh twist to your taco night lineup.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these incredible tacos:

For the Shrimp:

• Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for these tacos.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp and adding a touch of richness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a savory depth of flavor to the shrimp.
• Chili Powder: For a mild heat and earthy flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds extra spice to kick things up a notch.
• Paprika: Smoky and sweet, it helps balance out the spiciness.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice enhances the shrimp’s flavor and adds a zesty touch.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning.

For the Mango Salsa:

• Ripe Mango: The star of the salsa—sweet, juicy, and fragrant.
• Red Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a sharp flavor that pairs beautifully with the mango.
• Jalapeño: For a kick of heat—adjust to your spice tolerance!
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby flavor to the salsa.
• Lime Juice: A little squeeze of lime to bring everything together.
• Salt: For seasoning.

For the Tacos:

• Corn or Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable, ready to hold all the delicious fillings.
• Shredded Cabbage: Optional, for a crunchy, fresh base in the tacos.
• Sour Cream or Avocado Crema: Optional, for a creamy addition to balance the heat.

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

Instructions

Ready to make these tacos? Here’s how to do it:

Make the Mango Salsa:

1. Dice the ripe mango, red onion, and jalapeño. Place them in a bowl.
2. Chop the cilantro and add it to the mix.
3. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the salsa, and add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Stir everything together and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Shrimp:

5. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated in the spice mixture.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
7. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Warm the Tortillas:

8. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20 seconds on each side, or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds.

Assemble the Tacos:

9. Place a few shrimp on each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of mango salsa and a handful of shredded cabbage if using.
10. Add a dollop of sour cream or avocado crema for extra creaminess (optional), and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Serve:

11. Serve the tacos immediately and enjoy the burst of tropical, spicy flavors!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300-350 calories (depending on portion size and toppings)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 20-30 minutes

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

These tacos are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to complete the meal:

• Mexican Street Corn: Serve with roasted or grilled corn on the cob, brushed with a little mayo, chili powder, and lime juice for the perfect side dish.
• Chips and Guacamole: A side of crispy tortilla chips and creamy guacamole will complement the tacos beautifully.
• Rice: Cilantro-lime rice or a simple coconut rice would go perfectly with the tacos.

Additional Tips

• Adjust the Heat: You can make the shrimp as spicy or mild as you like. If you’re not a fan of too much heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeño.
• Mango Variations: If mango isn’t in season, you can swap it for pineapple or even papaya for a different tropical twist.
• Extra Toppings: You can add extra toppings like sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, or a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo for even more flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A1: Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! The salsa can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.

Q3: Can I make the shrimp on the grill instead of the skillet?

A3: Yes, grilling the shrimp will add an extra smoky flavor. Just skewer the shrimp or use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.

Q4: Can I use soft tacos instead of hard shells?

A4: Yes, soft corn or flour tortillas are perfect for these tacos. The soft tortillas complement the juicy shrimp and mango salsa.

Q5: Can I make these tacos without the mango salsa?

A5: While the mango salsa is what makes these tacos unique, you can certainly serve them with a different topping like pico de gallo or a simple avocado relish if you prefer.

Q6: How spicy are these tacos?

A6: The spice level is adjustable! The shrimp are seasoned with chili powder and cayenne pepper, and the salsa has jalapeños. You can reduce the amount of spice to your liking if you prefer something milder.

Q7: Can I use a different fruit for the salsa?

A7: Yes! You can use pineapple, papaya, or even peaches for a different fruity twist on the salsa.

Q8: Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?

A8: Yes! You can marinate the shrimp in the spice mixture up to an hour ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to assemble the tacos.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?

A9: Store leftover shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will last for up to 2 days, and the salsa should be used within 1-2 days.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?

A10: Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly if you’re making a larger batch. These tacos are great for a crowd!

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are the perfect blend of heat and sweet, making every bite a delicious experience. The tender shrimp, seasoned to perfection, paired with the refreshing, tropical salsa creates a taco that’s light, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re making them for Taco Tuesday, a weekend BBQ, or just a fun dinner at home, these tacos will surely be a crowd favorite. Enjoy!

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