Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos Recipe
If you’re craving something bright, zesty, and absolutely bursting with tropical flavor, these Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos are about to sweep you off your feet. This recipe marries succulent, spicy shrimp with juicy mango salsa, creamy avocado, and soft corn tortillas—the perfect collision of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite. So simple yet vibrant, these tacos come together in just 20 minutes, making them an ideal weeknight marvel when you want something that’s both effortless and a little bit special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos is chosen for maximum flavor and color, but there’s absolutely nothing fussy here. You’ll find common, fresh items that, together, create eye-popping tacos—each one bringing something essential to the flavor party.
- Medium shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star of the show—tender, juicy, and ready to soak up big flavor in minutes.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness, helps the shrimp sizzle, and carries the spices onto every bite.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle heat and that quintessential taco essence.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a whisper of smokiness that’s irresistible with seafood.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Punches up the savory factor—just a small amount makes a difference.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): As always, these kitchen heroes bring out every note of flavor.
- Corn tortillas (8 small): Soft, toasty, and naturally gluten-free—perfect for holding everything together.
- Ripe mango (1, peeled and diced): The tropical hit—its sweetness is what makes these tacos unforgettable.
- Red bell pepper (1/2, diced): Adds crunch and a pop of bold red color.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): For that essential bite and a splash of purple.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings vibrant green and citrusy herbal magic.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the salsa and balances all the flavors.
- Avocado (1, sliced): Creamy slices that cool everything down and bring satisfying richness.
- Optional crema or sour cream: A velvety drizzle that takes each taco to next-level luscious.
- Lime wedges (for serving): Essential for that final, fresh squeeze before digging in.
How to Make Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos
Step 1: Season and Toss the Shrimp
Start by grabbing a medium bowl, tossing in your peeled and deveined shrimp, and adding olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until every piece is shimmering and coated in those gorgeous spices—this instant marinade gives the shrimp decadent flavor in a flash.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high until it’s nice and hot, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them sizzle for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and cooked through. Don’t overcook—once they curl up and turn opaque, remove from heat and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Whip Up the Mango Salsa
While the shrimp cool, it’s time for the fresh salsa. In a small bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Gently toss, and behold—the colors are incredible! If you like an extra kick, toss in a little diced jalapeño right now.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
To keep your Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos authentically soft and bendy, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 20 seconds per side (or you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel). Warm tortillas never crack and always taste better.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Lay out your tortillas, then pile in the sautéed shrimp, spoonfuls of the mango salsa, and creamy avocado slices. You can drizzle a little crema or sour cream over the top for decadence. Serve right away with lime wedges—don’t forget that zippy squeeze just before you dig in!
How to Serve Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos
Garnishes
These Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos come alive with just the right finishing touches. A few extra cilantro leaves, a flurry of finely sliced green onions, or that luscious drizzle of crema really make each taco pop. Sliced jalapeños and pickled red onions work too for extra boldness!
Side Dishes
Looking to round out your taco night? Try cilantro-lime rice, black bean salad, or charred street corn on the cob. Each one plays perfectly with the sweet-and-savory theme of the Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos, and they all soak up extra salsa like champs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, stack the tacos on a big platter or taco holder with extra mango salsa piled in the center, and scatter lime wedges all around. You can also set up a “taco bar” so everyone can build their own—especially fun for family meals or entertaining friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover shrimp or salsa, store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will hold up for up to two days, and the mango salsa stays fresh (and even gets more flavorful) during that time.
Freezing
While the fresh mango salsa is best enjoyed right away, cooked shrimp can be frozen! Cool the shrimp completely, then transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat the shrimp, gently warm them in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat until just heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can turn rubbery. Always assemble fresh with new tortillas, salsa, and avocado for the best Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge or under cool running water, then pat dry before tossing with the spices and olive oil. They’ll cook up deliciously in the skillet.
How spicy are these tacos?
The basic recipe is mild with subtle warmth from chili powder and smoked paprika. If you love more heat, add diced jalapeño to the salsa or a pinch of cayenne to your shrimp seasoning.
Any substitute for mango if I don’t have it?
If fresh mango isn’t available, diced pineapple or even peach will bring a similar juicy, tropical vibe to these tacos. Just be sure to use fruit that’s ripe and sweet.
Can I make these tacos dairy-free?
You sure can! Just skip the crema or sour cream, or use your favorite plant-based alternative. These Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos are naturally dairy-free apart from that optional topping.
What’s the best way to make these gluten-free?
As long as you use corn tortillas (check labels to be sure they’re 100 percent corn), your Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos will be gluten-free. This makes them a fantastic choice for sharing with friends who avoid gluten!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fast, fun dinner that’s equal parts lively and comforting, you can’t go wrong with Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos. Each taco is an explosion of flavor, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Gather your friends or family, set out the toppings, and savor every bite—this recipe is definitely one to add to your weeknight favorites!
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Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Mango Shrimp Tacos are a delightful blend of flavors, combining juicy shrimp with sweet mango salsa in a warm corn tortilla. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
For Shrimp:
- 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 ripe mango (peeled and diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- Optional crema or sour cream for topping
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet until pink and opaque.
- Make Mango Salsa: Combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm tortillas, fill with shrimp, mango salsa, and avocado. Top with crema and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeño to the mango salsa.
- Pair with cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
