Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are a perfect blend of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. The combination of juicy grilled shrimp with a tangy and sweet mango salsa creates a mouthwatering dish that is light yet satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun taco night with friends, or a dish to impress guests at a summer BBQ, these tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The smoky grilled shrimp paired with the sweetness of mango and a squeeze of lime offers a refreshing, tropical twist on traditional tacos.

This recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, thanks to the juicy shrimp, zesty seasonings, and the homemade mango salsa. Perfect for those who love the contrast between savory and sweet flavors, these shrimp tacos are an ideal dish for warm weather or anytime you’re craving a taste of the tropics.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of grilled shrimp and fresh mango salsa is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Every bite offers a burst of freshness, making it a perfect meal for hot weather or casual gatherings.
• Healthy and Light: Grilled shrimp is a lean protein, and when paired with fresh vegetables and fruit, these tacos are a light and nutritious meal. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something healthier without compromising on flavor.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast yet flavorful meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have delicious shrimp tacos on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: The beauty of these tacos is how easily you can modify them to your taste. You can swap out the shrimp for another protein like fish or chicken, or add different toppings to suit your preferences.
• Vibrant and Colorful: The mango salsa not only adds delicious flavor but also brings a pop of color to your plate. The bright orange mango, green cilantro, and red onion create a visually appealing dish that will impress anyone you serve it to.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (2 tacos per person)
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the size of the shrimp and tortillas used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 12-14g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10-12g

Ingredients

For the Grilled Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20 shrimp)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lime, juiced (for marinade)

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

The Tacos:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas (depending on preference)
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
• ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

Start by preparing the shrimp marinade. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and stir everything together. The lime juice will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the shrimp.

Place the shrimp in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the shrimp. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This brief marinating time is enough to impart great flavor.

2. Make the Mango Salsa

While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the mango salsa. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), and fresh cilantro. Squeeze the juice of two limes over the salsa mixture and stir gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

If you prefer a spicier salsa, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add more to suit your taste. The fresh cilantro adds a nice, herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the mango. The lime juice helps to balance the sweetness with a bright, tangy kick.

3. Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure it’s clean and well-oiled to prevent the shrimp from sticking. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers (if using) or place them directly on the grill. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred. The shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.

Once the shrimp are grilled, remove them from the skewers (if using) and set them aside. You can also keep them on the skewers for easier serving, or chop them into smaller pieces for easier taco assembly.

4. Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp is grilling, warm your tortillas. You can do this by placing them on a dry skillet or grill for about 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and slightly charred. This step is essential as warm tortillas are more pliable and flavorful, which enhances the overall taco experience.

Alternatively, you can wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

5. Assemble the Tacos

Once the shrimp is grilled and the tortillas are warmed, it’s time to assemble the tacos. Take a warm tortilla and place a few grilled shrimp in the center. Top the shrimp with a generous spoonful of mango salsa, allowing the vibrant colors and flavors of the salsa to shine.

If desired, add a few slices of avocado for extra creaminess, and sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a salty, tangy contrast. Garnish with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro for added freshness. The lime juice will help brighten the flavors and tie everything together.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tacos immediately, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side. The tacos are best enjoyed while the shrimp is still warm and the flavors of the mango salsa are fresh.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

• Marinate the Shrimp: While shrimp cook quickly, marinating them for at least 15 minutes will infuse them with more flavor. If you have extra time, you can marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes, but avoid marinating for too long as the acid from the lime can begin to cook the shrimp.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients in the salsa really makes a difference. Use a ripe mango for sweetness and a fresh lime for a zesty kick. The fresher your ingredients, the better the tacos will taste.
• Customize the Spice: Adjust the level of heat in your mango salsa by varying the amount of jalapeño or by adding a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp marinade.
• Grill the Shrimp with Skewers: If you want to make grilling easier, thread the shrimp onto skewers before cooking. This makes flipping them on the grill much easier, and it’s also fun for serving.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mango salsa ahead of time. It can be made up to 2 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so keep an eye on them while grilling. Overcooking will make the shrimp tough and rubbery, so remove them from the grill as soon as they are opaque and slightly charred.

Variations of Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

• Grilled Fish Tacos: Swap out the shrimp for your favorite white fish, such as mahi-mahi, tilapia, or swordfish. Grilled fish works just as well with the mango salsa and provides a lighter alternative.
• Tropical Shrimp Tacos: Add other tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya to the salsa for a more complex fruit flavor. This variation works especially well if you’re serving the tacos at a summer barbecue.
• Spicy Shrimp Tacos: If you like your tacos with an extra kick, sprinkle the shrimp with a bit of cayenne pepper or drizzle them with a spicy sriracha sauce after grilling. This adds a fiery contrast to the sweetness of the mango salsa.
• Vegetarian Tacos: For a vegetarian version, swap the shrimp for grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted vegetables. The mushroom’s meaty texture makes it an excellent substitute for shrimp in this dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To store the shrimp, place them in an airtight container. For the salsa, store it separately in another container. The tortillas should be kept in a zip-top bag to maintain their freshness.

While the tacos can be eaten the next day, the shrimp may lose some of their tenderness, and the salsa may soften as it sits. To reheat the shrimp, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming overcooked.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Pair these tacos with complementary sides and drinks to create a complete meal:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob, coated with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, is a classic Mexican side that pairs perfectly with these shrimp tacos.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: A side of fluffy cilantro-lime rice is a fresh and flavorful accompaniment that complements the tacos without overpowering them.
• Guacamole and Chips: No Mexican-inspired meal is complete without guacamole. Serve this creamy dip with tortilla chips for a delicious snack or side.
• Refreshing Drinks: Pair your tacos with a cold margarita, iced tea, or a fresh limeade to complement the bright flavors. A cold beer, like a pale ale or pilsner, would also work well.

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Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a fun taco night, or a summer barbecue, these tacos will be the star of the show. With the grilled shrimp, fresh mango salsa, and warm tortillas, each bite is a burst of tropical goodness. Easy to make and highly customizable, these tacos are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!