Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Introduction

Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, featuring tender shrimp paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. The juicy shrimp are seasoned perfectly and quickly cooked, while the mango salsa adds a burst of color and flavor with its tropical sweetness and zesty kick. Topped with a creamy sauce, these tacos are an ideal choice for a light dinner or a fun weekend meal.

I first made these tacos when I wanted something refreshing and flavorful, and they quickly became a favorite. The contrast between the savory shrimp and the sweet, bright mango salsa is simply irresistible. You can serve them with a squeeze of lime for extra zing or add a sprinkle of cilantro for that fresh finishing touch.

The combination of savory shrimp and sweet mango creates a perfect balance, making these tacos a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or hosting a taco night with friends, these tacos are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Taco Tuesdays
• Family dinners
• Summer barbecues
• Casual gatherings
• Seafood lovers

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Here’s why Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa will become your new favorite:

• Flavorful and Fresh: The shrimp are seasoned with a blend of spices that complement the fresh mango salsa, creating a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.
• Light and Refreshing: This dish is light but satisfying, making it perfect for warm weather or whenever you want a refreshing meal.
• Quick and Easy: With a short cooking time, these tacos come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights or last-minute meals.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat of the salsa by adding more or less jalapeño or even switching it out for a milder pepper.
• Colorful and Vibrant: The mango salsa adds a burst of color, making these tacos visually appealing as well as delicious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (about 8 tacos)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 24g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas

Mango Salsa:

• 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 1 small jalapeño, deseeded and minced (adjust based on spice preference)
• 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt to taste

Creamy Sauce:

• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes:

• Lime wedges
• Extra cilantro (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and are naturally light, making them a great protein choice for tacos.
• Mango: The natural sweetness of mango adds a tropical flair to the salsa, which pairs perfectly with the savory shrimp.
• Jalapeño: The jalapeño provides a mild heat to the salsa, balancing out the sweetness of the mango.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives the salsa a bright, herby flavor that enhances the other ingredients.
• Creamy Sauce: The creamy sauce adds richness and ties the dish together, complementing the spice of the shrimp and salsa.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa:

Prepare the Mango Salsa:

1. Make the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cucumber, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt, and stir to combine. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Shrimp:

2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.

Creamy Sauce:

4. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lime juice, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Tacos:

5. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds, until soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with a generous spoonful of mango salsa, and drizzle with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

How to Serve Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are perfect for serving in many ways:

• With a Side Salad: Serve these tacos with a fresh side salad or slaw to balance the meal.
• As a Party Dish: Set up a taco bar with all the fixings and let everyone assemble their own shrimp tacos.
• With Chips and Guacamole: Pair these tacos with tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
• For a Light Dinner: These tacos make for a light yet filling dinner option, especially during warmer months.

Additional Tips for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Here are some tips to ensure your Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp will work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them properly.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less spice, omit the jalapeño or use a milder pepper. If you like more heat, add extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
• Make the Salsa in Advance: If you’re short on time, you can make the mango salsa a few hours in advance to let the flavors develop.
• Grill the Shrimp: For an extra smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of sautéing them.

Recipe Variations for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Here are 10 variations you can try for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa:

• Pineapple Salsa: Substitute the mango for pineapple for a tangy twist on the salsa.
• Avocado Salsa: Add diced avocado to the salsa for extra creaminess and richness.
• Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying them for a smoky flavor.
• Baja Shrimp Tacos: Add a crunchy slaw to the tacos for a classic Baja-style taco.
• Coconut Shrimp Tacos: Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut and fry them for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Creamy Sauce: Add a bit of sriracha or hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra kick.
• Fish Tacos: Substitute shrimp with grilled white fish fillets for a different seafood option.
• Corn Salsa: Add roasted corn to the mango salsa for extra texture and flavor.
• Crispy Shrimp Tacos: Coat the shrimp in panko breadcrumbs and fry them for a crispy crunch.
• Vegetarian Tacos: Use grilled portobello mushrooms instead of shrimp for a vegetarian version of the tacos.

Freezing and Storage for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the shrimp separately from the assembled tacos. Cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating and assembling the tacos.
• Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the salsa and creamy sauce in separate containers. The salsa will last for 1-2 days, and the sauce will keep for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa easier:

• Skillet or Grill Pan: A heavy skillet or grill pan will help cook the shrimp quickly and evenly.
• Taco Holder (optional): If you want to serve the tacos neatly, a taco holder can keep them upright.
• Citrus Juicer: A citrus juicer makes it easier to extract fresh lime juice for both the salsa and the sauce.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need bowls to prepare the salsa, shrimp, and creamy sauce.
• Spoon or Small Scoop: Use a spoon to add the salsa and sauce to the tacos with precision.

Frequently Asked Questions for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
2. Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
3. Can I use a different protein?
   Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
4. How can I make the tacos spicier?
   Add extra jalapeño to the salsa or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce to make the tacos spicier.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store the shrimp, salsa, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

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Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa offer a perfect balance of savory shrimp, refreshing salsa, and creamy sauce that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. These tacos are quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner, a party, or just craving something light and delicious, these shrimp tacos are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

This recipe is as simple as it is tasty, making it perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to beach-themed parties. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these shrimp tacos bring vibrant flavors to every bite.

I’d love to see how your Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!