This Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa recipe is a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, these tacos deliver a burst of taste with spicy shrimp and sweet mango salsa all wrapped in warm tortillas. Impress your guests or family with this easy-to-make dish that brings the fiesta to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spiced shrimp and fresh mango salsa creates a vibrant taste that’s sure to please.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer gatherings, taco nights, or as a light weeknight dinner.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh produce, these tacos are both nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add favorite toppings to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this flavorful dish, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet helps achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp, enhancing flavor.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, making prep quicker and easier.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Filling
- 1 lb fresh jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 large ripe mango (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 lime (juiced)
Additional Ingredients
- 8 soft corn or flour tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, queso fresco
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure each shrimp is coated evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa
While the shrimp is cooking, prepare the mango salsa. In a bowl, mix together diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Assemble Tacos
Warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Place cooked shrimp on each tortilla and top generously with mango salsa. Add any optional toppings like sliced avocado or sour cream.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately while still warm. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for leftovers.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your taco experience.
Fresh Ingredients
- Lime wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for an extra zing.
- Sliced avocados: Add creamy avocado slices for a rich texture that complements the spice.
Extra Sauces
- Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream can help temper the heat.
- Hot sauce: For those who crave more heat, offer a selection of hot sauces on the side.
Creative Wraps
- Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.
- Taco bowls: Serve the shrimp and mango salsa over rice or quinoa for a hearty bowl-style meal.
How to Perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Creating the perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa involves a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.
- Bold seasoning: Use generous amounts of taco seasoning and cayenne for maximum flavor.
- Fresh ingredients: Always choose ripe mango and fresh cilantro for the best taste.
- Warm tortillas: Warm your tortillas on a skillet for added softness and flavor.
- Chill salsa: Let your mango salsa chill in the fridge before serving to meld flavors.
- Even cooking: Cook shrimp just until pink to ensure they remain juicy and tender.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
To complement your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa, consider these delicious side dishes. They add variety and balance to your meal.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad featuring corn, cheese, and lime that pairs well with tacos.
- Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad adds a hearty touch, complete with diced peppers and a zesty dressing.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime makes a perfect base alongside your tacos.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the flavor profile while adding richness to your meal.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that provides another layer of flavor and freshness.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add color and a smoky taste to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa even better. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Properly seasoning the shrimp is crucial. Always use enough taco seasoning and cayenne pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes only a few minutes.
- Ignoring the salsa balance: The mango salsa should have a good balance of sweet and savory. Don’t forget to taste and adjust lime juice, salt, or cilantro as needed.
- Choosing the wrong tortillas: Using stiff or stale tortillas can ruin the tacos. Opt for fresh, soft corn or flour tortillas that will hold up well when filled.
- Forgetting optional toppings: Optional toppings like avocado or queso fresco can elevate your dish. Don’t skip these; they add creaminess and extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
- Place cooled shrimp and salsa in separate freezer-safe bags.
- Store in the freezer for up to 1 month for best quality.
Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tacos on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos and warm for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and mango salsa ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?
If you prefer a different protein, try chicken or fish as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on your choice.
How spicy are these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well too! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even seasoning and cooking results.
What toppings pair well with these tacos?
In addition to avocado and queso fresco, consider adding fresh jalapeños or pickled onions for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different proteins or toppings based on your preferences. Perfect for summer dinners or any taco night, give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful burst of flavors!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos total) 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa, the perfect dish for any gathering or cozy night in. In just 20 minutes, enjoy plump, seasoned shrimp paired with refreshing mango salsa, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This delightful recipe brings a fiesta to your table that is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its bold spices and fresh ingredients, each bite offers an explosion of taste that balances heat and sweetness beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, these tacos are both easy to make and satisfyingly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 large ripe mango (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 8 soft corn or flour tortillas
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the seasoned shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Meanwhile, prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp on each tortilla and topping with mango salsa.
- Serve immediately with optional toppings like sliced avocado or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: Adjust the spice level by modifying the cayenne pepper amount. For extra flavor, let the mango salsa chill before serving to meld the ingredients together. Consider using chicken or fish as alternatives to shrimp for different protein options.