Shrimp Mango Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Shrimp Mango Tacos are the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp is tender and savory with a subtle kick from the chili powder and cumin, while the mango salsa adds a sweet and refreshing contrast with a burst of citrus and fresh cilantro. The feta cheese and shredded lettuce bring a satisfying crunch, and the whole dish is perfectly wrapped in soft tortillas. It’s an easy-to-make, fun meal that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For Assembling:

• 8 small tortillas (corn or flour, depending on your preference)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Mango Salsa:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Mango Salsa:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeno, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
   • Stir gently to mix, and season with salt to taste. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, and salt.
   • Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque, and cooked through. Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the shrimp and toss to coat. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable.
   • To assemble, place a few shrimp in the center of each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of the mango salsa, shredded lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Serve:
   • Serve the tacos immediately, garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings (2 tacos per person)
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Toppings: Add your favorite toppings such as avocado, sour cream, or hot sauce to customize the flavor profile.
• Spiciness: If you prefer more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeno or add a dash of hot sauce to the mango salsa.
• Other Proteins: Swap the shrimp for grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a different protein option.
• Cheese: Instead of feta, you can use cotija cheese or queso fresco for a more traditional Mexican taco flavor.

Storage/Reheating

These Shrimp Mango Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftover shrimp and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet or microwave, and assemble the tacos just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes, the mango salsa can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to serve the salsa fresh to preserve the crunch of the vegetables and the sweetness of the mango.

Can I make these tacos spicy?

Absolutely! If you like spice, increase the amount of jalapeno in the salsa or drizzle the tacos with hot sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne to the shrimp seasoning.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use other cheeses like cotija, queso fresco, or even shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer.

Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

While the shrimp can be cooked ahead of time, it’s best to assemble and serve the tacos fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Can I add more vegetables to the tacos?

Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables like sliced avocado, corn, or even bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

Can I use soft taco shells instead of tortillas?

Yes, you can use soft flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or even small flour or corn wraps, depending on your preference.

How can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free.

What side dishes pair well with these tacos?

These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of rice, black beans, or a simple Mexican street corn salad.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

To avoid rubbery shrimp, cook them quickly over medium-high heat. Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes per side to cook through. Overcooking makes them tough.

Conclusion

These Shrimp Mango Tacos are a perfect balance of savory and sweet with a refreshing kick. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or simply craving a vibrant and flavorful meal, these tacos are an easy and delicious choice. The tender shrimp, sweet mango salsa, and fresh toppings come together for a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and texture. Enjoy this tropical twist on traditional tacos for a fun and flavorful dining experience!

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