These spicy shrimp tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy seafood! With juicy shrimp and a kick of spice, they’re topped with the sweetest mango salsa that adds a refreshing twist.
I love how the sweet mango balances the heat of the shrimp. It’s like a little party in your mouth! 🌮 Perfect for taco night or a sunny day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: For the best flavor, I recommend using medium shrimp. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the shrimp. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter for an extra twist.
Spices: Chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper give the shrimp its kick. If spice isn’t your thing, you can reduce the cayenne or omit it. Adding some ground coriander can also bring in a nice layer of flavor!
Mango: Fresh mango is best, but if it’s out of season, you can use canned mango in juice, just make sure to drain it well. Pineapple or kiwi can be a fun alternative for the salsa too!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and gluten-free, but flour tortillas are soft and easy to work with. Use what you prefer or have on hand!
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but here are some simple tips to get them just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot—we want a good sear. A medium-high heat works best.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps them cook evenly.
- Check for doneness: shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked. Overcooking can make them rubbery—just a couple of minutes per side should do!
By following these tips, you’ll have tender, flavorful shrimp that shine in your tacos!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Sweet Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Sweet Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and making the salsa, then around 15 minutes cooking the shrimp and assembling the tacos. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you like some heat), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together gently and set it aside. This allows all those yummy flavors to blend together nicely.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In another medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the shrimp are nicely coated with the spices. This will give them a fantastic flavor!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp for an extra zing!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp are cooking, put your tortillas in a dry skillet over low heat or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds until they’re soft and easy to handle.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
To put your tacos together, take a warmed tortilla and place a small handful of shredded cabbage or lettuce on it. Add a few pieces of the spicy shrimp, and then spoon over some of that vibrant mango salsa. If you like, sprinkle a little crumbled queso fresco on top for creaminess.
6. Serve:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side, so everyone can add a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your awesome Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Sweet Mango Salsa!
FAQ for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Sweet Mango Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika. You can also leave out or reduce the amount of jalapeño in the mango salsa.
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Mango?
If mango isn’t in season or you can’t find it, feel free to use fresh pineapple, kiwi, or even papaya for a fruity salsa. Just ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover shrimp and salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Warm the tortillas just before serving to maintain their softness.
