These quick shrimp tacos are a perfect blend of zesty, savory, and sweet flavors, featuring tender shrimp and fresh mango salsa.
Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich mango, and heart-healthy olive oil, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, easy meal prep, or casual taco nights, offering a fresh, flavorful dinner without the hassle.
Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or frying pan
- 1 Medium bowl for shrimp marinade
- 1 Small bowl for mango salsa
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or tongs
- Serving plate or platter
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- ¾ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- ¾ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil divided
For the Mango Salsa:
- 2 mangoes peeled and small diced
- ¼ cup red onion finely diced
- 1 jalapeño minced
- ⅓ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 6 –8 tortillas corn or flour
Instructions
- Prepare and Pat Shrimp Dry: Before you start cooking, ensure your shrimp is completely thawed if it was frozen. Place the shrimp on a clean plate or in a bowl and use paper towels to pat them dry. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp sear perfectly in the skillet, preventing them from steaming and ensuring a nice, flavorful crust. This step also helps the spices adhere evenly to the shrimp.
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp into this mixture until every piece is evenly coated. The marinade infuses the shrimp with vibrant, bold flavors. For best results, allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to one day for deeper flavor penetration.
- Prepare the Mango Salsa: On a cutting board, finely dice the mangoes and red onion. Mince the jalapeño, removing the seeds if you prefer a milder heat. Combine these ingredients in a small bowl and add the freshly chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir gently to mix. This salsa balances the shrimp’s spice with sweet, tangy, and slightly fiery notes, adding freshness and texture to each taco. Set aside while you cook the shrimp.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to warm until it shimmers slightly—this ensures the shrimp sizzles immediately upon contact, locking in moisture and flavor. Using the correct oil temperature is essential to achieve a perfect sear without overcooking.
- Cook the Shrimp: Carefully add the marinated shrimp to the skillet, spreading them out into a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear. Cook the shrimp for about 3 minutes on the first side until they turn opaque and develop a golden edge. Flip each shrimp carefully with a spatula or tongs and cook for another 2–3 minutes on the other side. Shrimp are done when they curl slightly and are no longer translucent in the center. Remove immediately from the skillet to prevent overcooking.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp cooks, warm your tortillas to make them pliable and enhance their flavor. You can heat them on a dry skillet over medium heat for 30–60 seconds per side, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds, or place them directly over a gas flame for a few seconds until slightly charred. Warm tortillas provide the perfect base for assembling tacos and help prevent breaking when folded.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a tortilla on a plate and layer with 3–4 shrimp, depending on the size of your tacos. Spoon a generous amount of mango salsa over the shrimp, ensuring each bite has a balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. If desired, you can add other toppings like shredded lettuce, avocado slices, or a drizzle of sour cream for extra creaminess. Repeat with remaining tortillas and ingredients.
- Serve Immediately: Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, while the shrimp is warm and the mango salsa is bright and vibrant. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Pair with a light salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. Encourage diners to eat immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors at their peak.
- Tips for Perfect Shrimp Tacos Avoid overcooking shrimp—they cook extremely fast and will become rubbery if left in the skillet. A quick visual check: they should curl slightly, turn pink, and be opaque throughout. Customize spice levels: adjust cayenne and jalapeño according to your heat preference. Fresh ingredients matter: use ripe mangoes and fresh cilantro for maximum flavor. For meal prep: the mango salsa can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
Notes
- Always pat shrimp dry before marinating to ensure even cooking and a better sear.
- Adjust the cayenne and jalapeño according to your spice preference—start small if unsure.
- Fresh, ripe mangoes make a significant difference in flavor; avoid underripe or overly soft fruit.
- For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas or any preferred gluten-free tortilla.
- The shrimp cooks very quickly; monitor carefully to avoid overcooking. A perfectly cooked shrimp is opaque, slightly curled, and tender.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Tacos
To elevate your shrimp tacos, start by using high-quality shrimp—wild-caught or responsibly farmed shrimp have a cleaner, more delicate flavor.
Marinating the shrimp for at least 10–15 minutes, or up to a day in the refrigerator, allows the spices to penetrate fully, giving each bite a depth of flavor.
Toasting your tortillas lightly adds a subtle smokiness and prevents them from tearing when assembling tacos.
For extra zest, consider adding a tiny pinch of lime zest to the mango salsa—it brightens the overall taste and complements the shrimp perfectly.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
These shrimp tacos are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides.
Serve with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a light, balanced meal.
For a more filling option, add Mexican-style rice or black beans.
Drizzle with a creamy cilantro-lime sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added richness.
Fresh lime wedges on the side enhance the flavors and give diners the option to add extra tang.
These tacos are also perfect for casual gatherings or taco nights, offering a fresh, colorful, and crowd-pleasing presentation.
Storage Tips to Keep Fresh
Shrimp tacos are best enjoyed immediately, but if you need to store leftovers, separate the components.
Keep cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Store mango salsa in a separate airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
Tortillas can be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for a day or two or refrigerated for longer.
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking. Assemble tacos just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mango salsa up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated.
Shrimp can also be marinated ahead of time, but cook it just before serving to maintain texture and prevent overcooking.
Tortillas are best warmed just before assembly.
2. What if I don’t like spicy food?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade and remove seeds from the jalapeño.
You can also replace it with a mild chili powder or paprika for flavor without heat.
3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works well. Make sure to thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat dry before marinating.
Avoid leaving thawed shrimp at room temperature for too long to maintain freshness.
4. Are there alternative toppings I can add?
Yes! Popular additions include shredded lettuce, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, pickled onions, or a drizzle of creamy sauces such as chipotle mayo or Greek yogurt.
Fresh herbs like extra cilantro or mint also add a refreshing touch.
5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply choose corn tortillas or any certified gluten-free tortilla.
All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
