Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a vibrant, delicious dish that combines bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos are not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. With the zesty mango slaw and creamy avocado crema, every bite offers a delightful contrast that will impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These tacos can be made in just 25 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: A mix of spices and fresh ingredients ensures that each taco is packed with flavor and excitement.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your tacos by adding different toppings or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with shrimp, mango, and vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare the components ahead of time for easy assembly during the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavorful tacos.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Blender or food processor
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Essential for cooking the shrimp evenly and quickly.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating shrimp and combining slaw ingredients without mess.
• Blender or food processor: Makes it easy to create a smooth avocado crema in no time.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1¼ lbs large shrimp, deveined
• ¼-½ tsp chipotle powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ancho chili powder
• ½ tsp granulated onion powder
• ½ tsp granulated garlic powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dried epozote or thyme or Mexican oregano
• ½ tsp sugar
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (or any neutral oil)

For the Mango Slaw

• large mango, diced into small pieces
• ¼ head red cabbage, finely shredded (about 3½ cups)
• 2-3 stalks scallions or green onions, chopped
• 1-2 tbsp lime juice or vinegar
• 2-3 tbsp chopped cilantro
• ¼ tsp sugar
• kosher salt as needed

For the Avocado Crema

• 1 medium ripe avocado, chopped
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1-2 small cloves garlic (use as you need)
• 3-4 tbsp lime juice
• ½-1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped

For Serving

• small corn tortilla
• sliced lime as needed

this recipe

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl combine all the spices mentioned for the shrimp. Add the shrimp to this mixture. Toss well so that each piece is coated in spice. Allow it to marinate for about 5 to 10 minutes while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Slaw

In another bowl, combine diced mango, shredded red cabbage, lime juice or vinegar, salt, and sugar. Toss everything together until well mixed. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes so that it can soften. Finally, add chopped cilantro and green onions before setting aside.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Crema

Blend together all ingredients for the avocado crema until smooth. Adjust seasoning as necessary to fit your taste preferences. Set this aside as well.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter. Once hot, cook the marinated shrimp for about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip them halfway through until they turn opaque and firm.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

Char small corn tortillas over an open flame for about 20 seconds on each side. Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel immediately after cooking them to keep warm. Alternatively, you can heat a stack in a low oven at 250°F wrapped in damp paper towels.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Spread some avocado crema on each warm tortilla. Top it generously with cooked shrimp followed by mango slaw. Serve immediately with additional lime wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema!

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Serving these delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema is a delightful experience. The combination of flavors makes them perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.

Taco Night Extravaganza

• Add toppings: Provide extra toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco to let guests customize their tacos.
• Offer sauces: Alongside the avocado crema, you can offer hot sauce or salsa for added flavor.

Casual Dinner Parties

• Family-style serving: Arrange the shrimp, mango slaw, and tortillas on a large platter for guests to serve themselves.
• Include sides: Pair your tacos with corn on the cob or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Picnic or Outdoor Events

• Packable meal: These tacos are easy to transport; just wrap them securely in foil to keep them fresh.
• Pair with beverages: Serve refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade for a perfect outdoor feast.

How to Perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

To ensure your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure your shrimp is well-seasoned. Let it marinate longer if you want more flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh mango and ripe avocado for the best taste and texture in your slaw and crema.
• Tortilla technique: Warm tortillas on an open flame for a charred flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Balance textures: Mix crunchy cabbage with creamy avocado crema for a satisfying bite.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder tacos, adjust the amount of chipotle powder used in the marinade.
• Make ahead: Prepare the mango slaw and avocado crema in advance for quicker assembly during mealtime.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Complementing your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime.
2. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips makes a perfect appetizer.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, cilantro, and lime juice offers protein and texture.
4. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices pairs wonderfully with tacos.
5. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: A light quinoa salad that adds nutrition while balancing flavors.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice brings brightness to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can result in bland tacos. Make sure to give the shrimp at least 5-10 minutes to soak up the flavors from the spices.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are opaque and firm.
• Not letting the slaw rest: Failing to let the mango slaw sit can make it less flavorful. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes so that the flavors meld together nicely.
• Ignoring tortilla preparation: Using cold tortillas can detract from your taco experience. Warm or char them before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Every ingredient varies in strength, so tasting as you go is essential. Don’t hesitate to adjust salt, lime juice, or spice levels according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep shrimp and slaw separate if possible for best texture.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped tacos in a freezer-safe container.
• Use within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos one at a time, cooking for about 1-2 minutes on each side until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema?

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are delicious tacos filled with marinated shrimp, fresh mango slaw, and creamy avocado crema, offering a perfect blend of flavors.

Can I customize the toppings for my Spicy Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cotija cheese according to your taste preferences.

How do I make the avocado crema for my Spicy Shrimp Tacos?

To make avocado crema, blend ripe avocado with Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and jalapeño until smooth. Adjust seasonings as needed.

What sides pair well with Spicy Shrimp Tacos?

Consider serving these tacos with Mexican rice, black beans, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema deliver vibrant flavors and textures that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Give this dish a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (2 tacos per serving) 1x

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Description

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a delightful culinary treat that brings together the freshness of shrimp, the sweetness of mango, and the creaminess of avocado. These vibrant tacos are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1¼ lbs large shrimp
• ¼–½ tsp chipotle powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ancho chili powder
• ½ tsp granulated onion powder
• ½ tsp granulated garlic powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dried epozote or thyme or Mexican oregano
• ½ tsp sugar
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (or any neutral oil)
• 1 large mango, diced into small pieces
• ¼ head red cabbage, finely shredded (about 3½ cups)
• 2–3 stalks scallions or green onions, chopped
• 1–2 tbsp lime juice or vinegar
• 2–3 tbsp chopped cilantro
• ¼ tsp sugar
• kosher salt as needed
• 1 medium ripe avocado, chopped
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1–2 small cloves garlic (use as you need)
• 3–4 tbsp lime juice
• ½–1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• small corn tortilla
• sliced lime as needed

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Instructions

1. Marinate shrimp in spices (chipotle powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, sugar, salt) for 5-10 minutes.
2. Combine diced mango, shredded cabbage, lime juice, cilantro, and sugar in a bowl to make mango slaw. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
3. Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and jalapeño until smooth to create avocado crema.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until opaque.
5. Warm corn tortillas on an open flame or in a low oven.
6. Assemble tacos by spreading avocado crema on tortillas, topping with shrimp and mango slaw.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (198g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 840mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: Adjust spice levels based on preference by modifying the chipotle powder. For extra crunch, consider adding sliced radishes or additional veggies to the slaw. Make components ahead for quick assembly during busy nights.