Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful meal that feels like a fiesta in every bite, the Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe is your new best friend. Combining perfectly seasoned, juicy shrimp with a bright, fresh mango salsa and a creamy, zesty sauce, this dish offers an irresistible blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself on a weeknight, these tacos come together quickly and deliver a satisfying crunch and burst of summer with every mouthful. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll be a go-to classic for seafood taco nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. From the smoky spices that coat the shrimp to the juicy sweetness of the mango salsa, every component is essential to creating the perfect balance.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, offering a tender and slightly sweet base for the bold spices.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to sauté the shrimp and adds a subtle richness.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings warmth and depth to the shrimp seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky undertone that elevates the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Infuses the shrimp with an earthy, hearty note.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle spice.
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas: Perfect to cradle all the taco goodness.
• 2 cups shredded cabbage or slaw mix: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to every bite.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: A bright, herbal garnish that brings freshness.
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced: The star of the mango salsa, delivering sweet tropical flair.
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion: Offers a sharp bite and lovely texture contrast.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds a zesty tang to brighten the salsa.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Gives the salsa a smooth finish.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and acidity in the salsa.
• 1/4 cup sour cream: Creates a creamy, cooling base for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Injects fresh citrus notes into the sauce.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by tossing the shrimp in a medium bowl with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is the magic that gives the shrimp a wonderfully bold and smoky flavor, preparing them to shine in the final dish.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the seasoned shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. The quick sauté locks in juiciness while the high heat delivers a slight char that adds texture and flavor complexity.

Step 3: Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a separate bowl, mix together the diced mango, red onion, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. This fresh salsa is the bright, sweet, and tangy counterbalance to the spicy shrimp, adding bursts of tropical flavor with every bite.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a small bowl. This sauce is the perfect cooling drizzle that ties all the components together with its creamy texture and zesty profile.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Gently warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Warm tortillas make assembling the tacos easier and bring out their comforting aroma.

Step 6: Assemble Your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe

Layer shredded cabbage on each tortilla, then top with cooked shrimp, a generous spoonful of mango salsa, and a drizzle of the creamy sauce. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for color and an herbaceous pop. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe

Garnishes

Aside from the cilantro, consider fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus just before eating. Thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika can also add visual appeal and a personalized heat level.

Side Dishes

These tacos pair spectacularly with a simple Mexican-style street corn salad or a crisp cucumber and avocado salad. The fresh veggies add crunch and coolness that complement the spiciness of the shrimp and the sweetness of the mango salsa.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, try serving these tacos as part of a build-your-own taco bar with extra toppings like pickled red onions, crumbled cotija cheese, and homemade hot sauce. Plating individual tacos on colorful serving boards with small bowls of salsa and sauce amps up the festive vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cooked shrimp and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. This prevents the textures from blending too early and keeps everything fresh for a quick reassembly of tacos later.

Freezing

While shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked seasoned shrimp if needed. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. Note that the mango salsa is not freezer-friendly and should be made fresh or stored refrigerated only.

Reheating

To reheat the shrimp, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking. Reassemble your tacos with fresh or chilled mango salsa and sauce after reheating for maximum flavor and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they get a nice sear and don’t steam.

What can I substitute for mango in the salsa?

If mango isn’t available or you want a twist, pineapple works beautifully for a similar tropical sweetness and a slight tang.

How spicy are these tacos?

The heat level is moderate thanks to the cayenne pepper, but it’s easily adjustable. Reduce the cayenne for a milder dish or add some extra if you like it fiery.

Are corn or flour tortillas better for this recipe?

Both work well! Corn tortillas add traditional flavor and a bit of chewiness, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs.

Can I make the mango salsa in advance?

Yes, you can make the salsa a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe that brings fresh, bold flavors to your kitchen with very little fuss. I hope you enjoy preparing and sharing this vibrant dish as much as I do — it’s guaranteed to become a crowd-pleaser and a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. So, grab those ingredients and get ready to savor a bite that’s as colorful as it is delicious!

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa bring together perfectly seasoned, sautéed shrimp and a fresh, tangy mango salsa, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Topped with crisp cabbage and a creamy lime sauce, this vibrant Mexican-inspired dish is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Tortillas and Toppings

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage or slaw mix
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Mango Salsa

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Creamy Lime Sauce

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

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Instructions

1. Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare Mango Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, finely diced red onion, fresh lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
4. Make the Creamy Lime Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice until smooth and well combined.
5. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the corn or flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or microwave them for a few seconds until soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos: Place shredded cabbage on each tortilla, add cooked shrimp, then spoon over mango salsa. Drizzle with the creamy lime sauce and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately to enjoy at their freshest.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference.
• For a tropical twist, pineapple can be used as a substitute for mango in the salsa.
• Use corn or flour tortillas based on your dietary preference; both work well.
• To make these tacos gluten free, ensure the tortillas are gluten free corn tortillas and check all ingredient labels.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired