Mango Salsa Shrimp Tacos

Mango Salsa Shrimp Tacos are the perfect fusion of fresh, tropical flavors and warm, comforting textures. These tacos combine juicy, seasoned shrimp with a bright, refreshing mango salsa, all wrapped inside soft tortillas.

The balance of sweetness from the mango, acidity from lime, and heat from chili makes every bite vibrant and irresistible. This dish feels like a beach vacation on a plate, making it a favorite for warm-weather dinners, gatherings, or anytime you need a burst of freshness.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly satisfying because it brings together bold flavors with minimal effort. The shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, and the salsa requires only chopping and mixing.

I love the contrast between the warm, smoky shrimp and the cold, juicy mango salsa. The dish tastes gourmet but is easy enough for a quick weekday meal. Every bite feels light yet filling, and the colors alone make it beautiful enough for entertaining.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You should absolutely try this recipe because it offers:

  • A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, citrusy, and savory flavors.
  • A fresh and healthy meal packed with lean protein and fruits.
  • A 20-minute cooking time, making it ideal for busy schedules.
  • A customizable base that works with various toppings and seasonings.
  • Restaurant-quality results with simple, affordable ingredients.

This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially for taco lovers and seafood fans.

Recipe Detailes

Preparation Time 10 minutes
Cooking Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings (about 2 tacos per person)
Calories Around 350 calories per serving (varies based on tortilla size and toppings)
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican Fusion / Coastal Inspired

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Juice of 1/2 lime

For the Mango Salsa

  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

For Serving

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • Extra lime wedges
  • Shredded cabbage or lettuce (optional)
  • Avocado slices or diced avocado (optional)

Cooking Directions

  1. Prepare the mango salsa by mixing all salsa ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust lime or salt. Chill until needed.
  2. Season the shrimp with olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss well.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame.
  5. Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with shrimp, mango salsa, and optional toppings.
  6. Serve with lime wedges.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Mango Salsa

  • Add mango, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to a bowl.
  • Mix gently.
  • Set aside or refrigerate to let flavors develop.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

  • In a large bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil.
  • Sprinkle chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, pepper.
  • Add lime juice and toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

  • Heat a skillet to medium-high.
  • Add shrimp in a single layer.
  • Cook 2–3 minutes per side until curled, pink, and slightly charred.
  • Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

  • Heat tortillas in a dry pan or grill until soft and pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

  • Place shrimp in the center of each tortilla.
  • Spoon generous mango salsa on top.
  • Add cabbage, avocado, or extra cilantro as desired.

Step 6: Serve

  • Squeeze fresh lime over each taco and enjoy immediately.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Mango Salsa Shrimp Tacos warm with:

  • A side of tortilla chips and guacamole
  • A fresh corn salad
  • Lime crema or chipotle mayo drizzled on top
  • Ice-cold lemonade, lime soda, or a light mocktail

For parties, set up a taco bar with multiple toppings for guests to build their own tacos.

Recipe Tips

  • Do not overcook the shrimp; they become rubbery quickly.
  • Use ripe but firm mangoes for the best texture.
  • Add a pinch of sugar to the salsa if your mango is slightly tart.
  • Warm tortillas charred over an open flame add amazing flavor.
  • Prepare salsa ahead to deepen flavor.

Variations

Spicy Variation

Add extra cayenne or drizzle sriracha over the assembled tacos.

Creamy Variation

Top with lime crema made from yogurt, lime juice, and garlic.

Tropical Variation

Add pineapple or papaya to the mango salsa.

Low-Carb Variation

Serve the shrimp and salsa in lettuce cups instead of tortillas.

Grilled Shrimp Variation

Grill skewered shrimp outdoors for extra smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

  • Shrimp: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Mango Salsa: Best consumed within 24 hours for freshest flavor.

Freezing

  • Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Do not freeze mango salsa; it becomes watery.

Reheating

  • Reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes.
  • Do not microwave for long or shrimp will become tough.

Special Equipment Needed

  • Sharp knife for chopping salsa ingredients
  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet or grill pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting board

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Can I make this with chicken?

Yes. Substitute shrimp with thin-sliced chicken breast and cook longer.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prepare the salsa and seasoning mix ahead. Cook shrimp just before serving.

Can I use corn tortillas?

Absolutely. They add a more authentic Mexican flavor.

How do I make the dish spicier?

Add extra jalapeño, cayenne, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Conclusion

Mango Salsa Shrimp Tacos are a bright, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings fresh seafood together with tropical fruit for a perfect balance of taste and texture. They are fast, healthy, and endlessly customizable, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Once you try them, they will undoubtedly become a regular in your meal rotation.

Mango Salsa Shrimp Tacos

Recipe by Elina JamesCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Total time

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • Juice of 1/2 lime

  • For the Mango Salsa

  • 1 ripe mango, diced

  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced

  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced

  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Salt to taste

  • For Serving

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas

  • Extra lime wedges

  • Shredded cabbage or lettuce (optional)

  • Avocado slices or diced avocado (optional)

Directions

  • Prepare the mango salsa by mixing all salsa ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust lime or salt. Chill until needed.
  • Season the shrimp with olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss well.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame.
  • Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with shrimp, mango salsa, and optional toppings.
  • Serve with lime wedges.

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