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This Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of spicy, juicy shrimp and sweet, refreshing mango salsa for a meal that feels like a mini celebration on your plate. It’s a bright and tasty dish that manages to be both simple and impressive, perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a quick, satisfying dinner.
I first made these tacos during a summer get-together and they quickly became a hit with friends and family. Now they are a go-to when I want something special but easy.
Ingredients
- Fresh jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined: using fresh shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor
- Soft corn or flour tortillas: choose fresh tortillas for softness and to hold the filling well
- Olive oil: helps the shrimp marinate and cook with a nice slight crisp
- Taco seasoning: provides the classic Tex-Mex spice blend, pick one with cumin and chili powder for depth
- Cayenne pepper: adds heat, adjust according to your spice tolerance
- Large ripe mango diced: key to bringing the sweetness and juiciness to balance the spice
- Red onion finely chopped: adds a sharp crunch to the salsa
- Fresh cilantro chopped: fresh herbs brighten the salsa and the whole taco experience
- Lime juiced: acidity that cuts through the richness and ties the salsa together
- Salt and pepper: essential to bring out every flavor
- Optional toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, and queso fresco: these add creaminess and coolness that pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Salsa:
- Dice the mango into small, even pieces for a consistent texture. Finely chop the red onion so it adds bite without overpowering. Chop the fresh cilantro for brightness. Combine these in a bowl with freshly squeezed lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and put it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld while you work on the shrimp.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil with taco seasoning and cayenne pepper. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this mixture until they are fully coated. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to absorb the spices and develop flavor. Don’t skip this step as it is key to a flavorful shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a skillet or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a slight char. This quick cooking method keeps the shrimp juicy while adding a subtle smoky flavor.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- While the shrimp cooks, warm your tortillas. You can toast them in a dry skillet until pliable and slightly golden or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds. Warm tortillas help keep the tacos soft and flexible.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Lay the shrimp evenly on each warmed tortilla. Spoon a generous amount of mango salsa over the shrimp. Add optional toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or queso fresco if you like. Serve immediately for the freshest bite.
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The mango salsa is my favorite part its natural sweetness balances the heat, turning each bite into a refreshing burst. One summer I made a big batch for a family picnic, and these tacos disappeared faster than anything else on the table.
Storage Tips
Store the cooked shrimp and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp is best eaten within two days for freshness. The mango salsa can last a little longer but is always best fresh to keep its bright flavor. Tortillas are best warmed fresh. Reheat shrimp gently to avoid overcooking.
Ingredient Substitutions
If mango is not available, try replacing it with pineapple or peaches for a similar sweet and juicy effect. For shrimp, you can use peeled and deveined prawns or even firm white fish if preferred. If you want less spice, reduce or skip cayenne pepper and use mild taco seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tacos with a side of black beans or a fresh green salad to round out the meal. A cold Mexican beer or a margarita complements the spicy and sweet flavors perfectly. For a kid-friendly version, keep the shrimp milder and add more creamy toppings.
Cultural Context
Shrimp tacos are a beloved variation of traditional Mexican street tacos that usually feature grilled meats or fish. The combination of fruit salsa adds a fresh coastal twist that is popular in many Mexican beach towns. Mango salsa is a great example of how fruit is often paired with savory seafood to brighten flavors and textures.
Pro Tips
- Always pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the seasoning stick better
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking shrimp to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming
- Toast the taco seasoning spices lightly before adding to the shrimp for an extra layer of flavor
Recipe FAQs
- → How should the shrimp be cooked for best texture?
Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a slight char, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
- → What is the purpose of marinating the shrimp?
Marinating infuses the shrimp with the taco seasoning and cayenne, enhancing spice and depth before cooking.
- → Can I use alternative toppings to complement the mango salsa?
Yes, sliced avocado, sour cream, or queso fresco add richness and balance the spicy and sweet elements perfectly.
- → What type of tortillas work best for this dish?
Soft corn or flour tortillas warmed in a dry skillet or microwave are ideal, providing flexibility and a mild flavor base.
- → How can the mango salsa be prepared ahead of time?
Mix diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper, then refrigerate to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- → Is adjusting the cayenne pepper recommended?
Absolutely, adjust the cayenne according to your preferred spice level to balance heat without overpowering the sweetness.