If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. The Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe is a fantastic blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes that come together to create a meal that feels both indulgent and light. Imagine tender shrimp kissed by a smoky heat, paired with a bright mango salsa that dances on your tongue, all wrapped in warm, soft tortillas. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful celebration on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to crafting these irresistible tacos. Each one plays a crucial role: from the succulent shrimp packed with protein to the juicy mango adding a sweet contrast, every element contributes depth, texture, or color. These ingredients are simple, accessible, and come together quickly to elevate your taco game.
- Fresh jumbo shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined, these are the star protein with a tender, juicy bite.
- Soft corn or flour tortillas (8): Choose your favorite to wrap all the flavors in a warm, tender embrace.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the shrimp get perfectly seared.
- Taco seasoning (2 tablespoons): A blend of spices that brings classic Mexican flair and deep flavor complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (1 teaspoon): Provides a vibrant spicy kick; adjust it to control the heat just the way you like.
- Ripe mango (1 large): Diced for a juicy, sweet contrast that balances the spice with freshness.
- Red onion (1/4 cup): Finely chopped for a sharp, crunchy burst in every bite.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup): Adds a fragrant, citrusy note that ties everything together.
- Lime (1, juiced): Brings acidity and brightness to the mango salsa, making flavors pop.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing each ingredient’s natural goodness.
- Optional toppings: Sliced avocado, sour cream, or queso fresco for creamy, cooling layers.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa
Start by combining the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro in a bowl. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and gently toss everything together. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the sweetness and acidity. This salsa will add a burst of fresh flavor and color to your tacos, so let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors marry.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the spice blend; this is what will pack the punch and infuse the shrimp with that signature spicy flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. The goal is to get a slight char without overcooking, preserving the shrimp’s juicy texture that complements the bold spices beautifully.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
While the shrimp cooks, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a low flame for a few seconds each side. This step makes them pliable and enhances that warm, toasted flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp and fresh salsa.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Lay the warmed tortillas flat and arrange the cooked shrimp on each. Top generously with the mango salsa and any optional toppings you desire, such as creamy avocado slices or dollops of sour cream. Don’t be shy – the more toppings, the merrier!
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your tacos isn’t just about looks; it adds layers of flavor and texture. Fresh cilantro leaves, a squeeze of lime, or even a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco bring brightness and creaminess that elevate every bite. Thinly sliced jalapeños can add extra heat if you want to amp things up.
Side Dishes
These tacos pair beautifully with light and refreshing sides. Think a simple shredded cabbage slaw tossed with lime and cilantro or a bowl of black beans seasoned with cumin and garlic. Corn on the cob or Mexican street corn (elote) also makes a perfect complement with its smoky, creamy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends, set up a taco bar where everyone can build their own Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe. Use small serving bowls for the salsa, shrimp, tortillas, and toppings. This interactive approach makes the meal fun and lets everyone customize to their liking, making gatherings more memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover shrimp and mango salsa can be refrigerated separately in airtight containers for up to two days. Keeping the components separate ensures the tortillas won’t get soggy and the salsa stays fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
While shrimp can be frozen before cooking, it’s best to enjoy the Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe fresh. If you do freeze cooked shrimp, wrap them well and use within one month for best quality. Avoid freezing the mango salsa as it will lose its fresh texture upon thawing.
Reheating
When ready to eat leftovers, gently reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through to avoid toughness. Warm tortillas separately, either in a skillet or microwave. Add fresh mango salsa after reheating to maintain its crisp, fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps the shrimp sear properly and absorb all those wonderful spices.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level is adjustable. The cayenne pepper adds a noticeable kick, but you can reduce the amount or leave it out completely if you prefer milder tacos.
What can I substitute for mango in the salsa?
Pineapple or peaches are great alternatives that offer a similar sweet and juicy element. They’ll pair beautifully with the spicy shrimp and maintain that fresh summery vibe.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
While the shrimp is the star protein, you could swap in spiced and grilled tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegan twist. The mango salsa would still shine and bring bright flavors to the dish.
What type of tortillas is best?
Both corn and flour tortillas work wonderfully. Corn tortillas add a traditional touch with a slightly earthy flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying the Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe enough if you’re looking to brighten up your dinner rotation. This dish is a beautiful balance of heat, sweet, and tang, perfect for impressing weeknight guests or enjoying as a vibrant family meal. Once you make it, I bet it’ll quickly become one of your favorites too!
Print
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Spicy Shrimp Tacos recipe featuring juicy seasoned shrimp paired with fresh, sweet mango salsa. This quick and easy meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering, offering a balanced blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors wrapped in warm tortillas.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb fresh jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mango Salsa
- 1 large ripe mango (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 lime (juiced)
Assembly
- 8 soft corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, queso fresco
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Adjust cayenne pepper based on preferred spice level.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Make the mango salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and the juice of one lime. Mix gently to combine. Season with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until warm and pliable, or wrap in a damp towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble the tacos: Place a few cooked shrimp on each warmed tortilla, top with generous spoonfuls of mango salsa, and add optional toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, or queso fresco for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the tacos immediately while warm, accompanied by lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred heat tolerance.
- Use either corn or flour tortillas based on personal preference or dietary needs.
- For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas and ensure the taco seasoning is gluten-free.
- Fresh mango is key for the salsa’s sweetness; avoid underripe mangoes.
- Leftover shrimp can be refrigerated and used within 2 days.
