These easy spicy shrimp tacos are a fun twist for taco night! Juicy shrimp are seasoned just right and topped with a bright, fresh mango salsa for a burst of flavor.
Who can resist the combination of spicy shrimp and sweet mango? I love to pile on the salsa—it adds a tasty crunch that makes every bite special. Plus, they’re quick to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, but medium shrimp work too. If you’re vegetarian, try using hearts of palm or jackfruit as a shrimp substitute. They soak up flavors well!
Mango: Fresh mango adds sweetness, but if it’s not in season, consider using canned mango or pineapple. Both will add a tropical twist!
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels! If you don’t have cayenne, use a pinch of red pepper flakes or skip it altogether for milder tacos.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas are softer and still tasty. You could also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s quick once you get the hang of it! Start by making sure your shrimp are thawed (if frozen) and fully peeled and deveined. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. The pan should be hot when you add the shrimp.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
- Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so don’t wait too long!
How Can You Make the Best Mango Salsa?
Mango salsa is easy to make and so refreshing! Start by selecting ripe mangoes. A good mango should give slightly when squeezed. Here’s how:
- Dice the mango, bell pepper, and onion evenly for a better texture.
- Remove seeds from the jalapeño for less heat, or keep them in if you like it spicy!
- Let the salsa sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
These tips will help you nail this recipe and enjoy a delicious meal that’s full of flavor!
Easy Spicy Shrimp Tacos With Fresh Mango Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (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 lettuce (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste. Mix everything well, and then cover and refrigerate it while you prepare the shrimp. This helps the flavors come together!
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with these tasty spices!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp appear opaque and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, or they can become rubbery. Once done, remove from heat.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the shrimp are cooking, you can warm the tortillas. You can either heat them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until they’re warm and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat. Place a few cooked shrimp in the center. If you like, add a bit of shredded lettuce for crunch. Then, spoon a generous amount of the fresh mango salsa on top of the shrimp. If you want, add a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema for extra creaminess!
6. Serve:
Finally, garnish your tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over them. Enjoy your flavorful shrimp tacos while they’re warm, and savor the perfect balance of spice and sweetness!
These spicy shrimp tacos with fresh mango salsa are not only quick to make but also packed with flavor – perfect for any taco lover!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Shrimp Tacos With Fresh Mango Salsa
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can quickly thaw them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Mango in the Salsa?
If mango isn’t available, you can use diced pineapple or papaya for a similar sweetness. Canned peaches could work too, but make sure to drain them well. Adjust the other ingredients accordingly for balance!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
For best results, store the shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will be good for up to 2 days, while the mango salsa lasts about 3 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to eat again.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance, which allows the flavors to develop even more! However, it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture. Consider warming the tortillas just before serving as well.
