Name: Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Fresh Mango Salsa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 small flour or corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice; Salt, to taste (for salsa)

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I’ll never forget the first time I tried to make shrimp tacos at home. It was a complete disaster – the shrimp were overcooked and rubbery, and the toppings were a soggy mess that fell out of every tortilla. But after years of tweaking and perfecting, these zesty shrimp tacos with fresh mango salsa have become my absolute go-to weeknight dinner. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, bright tropical mango salsa, and fresh toppings creates something magical that comes together in just 20 minutes.

Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Fresh Mango Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes these tacos so special is not just the amazing flavor, but how easy and approachable they are. There’s no need for fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. All you need is good shrimp, a handful of spices you probably already have, and the sweetest mango you can find. The result is restaurant-quality tacos that are ready in a flash, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something fresh and flavorful. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory shrimp, refreshing mango salsa, and all the right toppings, and the best part is that the recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare. It’s a simple yet delicious dinner that will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 small flour or corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

For Mango Salsa:

1 ripe mango, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
Salt, to taste

(Herе’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by preparing the mango salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Add the lime juice and a pinch of salt, then toss everything together. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Next, season the shrimp. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture over them, coating evenly.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet.
Warm the tortillas in the same skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and lightly toasted.
Assemble the tacos by placing 3-4 shrimp on each tortilla, then topping with a generous spoonful of mango salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, with each person enjoying 2 tacos. The entire meal can be prepared in 20 minutes, making it an incredibly quick and easy dinner option.

Variations

Add Avocado: For a creamier texture, add slices of ripe avocado on top of the tacos.
Spice it Up: If you love heat, try adding more jalapeño to the salsa or sprinkle some chili flakes over the shrimp.
Taco Bowl: Skip the tortillas and turn this into a taco bowl by serving the shrimp and mango salsa over rice, quinoa, or lettuce.
Grilled Shrimp: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of cooking them on the stove.

Storage/Reheating

To store, place the shrimp and mango salsa in separate airtight containers. The shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, while the salsa is best eaten within 1 day for optimal freshness. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, and enjoy the tacos fresh when you’re ready.

FAQs

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the mango salsa up to a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.

What kind of tortillas should I use?

You can use either flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference. Both work great for this recipe.

Can I make these tacos spicy?

Yes! To add more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or sprinkle chili flakes on the shrimp.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when they are fully cooked. If they’re still translucent in the middle, give them another minute or so on the skillet.

Conclusion

These zesty shrimp tacos with fresh mango salsa have become one of my absolute favorites for a reason – they’re quick, simple, and packed with flavor. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the seasoned shrimp, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights and weekend gatherings alike.