Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are bursting with flavor and color! Tender shrimp are coated in a smoky, spicy seasoning and quickly pan-seared to juicy perfection. They’re tucked into warm tortillas and topped with a fresh mango salsa made with ripe mango, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro — offering the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and zest.
Ideal for taco night, weeknight dinners, or summer gatherings, these tacos are gluten-free, dairy-free (unless topped with crema), and ready in under 30 minutes!
Total Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Spicy Shrimp:
1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lime
For the Mango Salsa:
1 ripe mango, diced
¼ red onion, finely chopped
1 small red chili or jalapeño, minced (optional)
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
For Serving:
8 small corn or flour tortillas
Shredded red cabbage or lettuce
Avocado slices (optional)
Sour cream, Greek yogurt, or crema (optional)
Lime wedges
Extra cilantro
Instructions
Make the Mango Salsa
In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, chili (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside to let flavors blend.
Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lime juice until evenly coated.
Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and slightly crispy on the edges. Do not overcook. Remove from heat.
Warm the Tortillas
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos
Layer each tortilla with a small handful of shredded cabbage or lettuce, 3–4 shrimp, mango salsa, and optional avocado or sauce. Finish with a squeeze of lime and sprinkle of cilantro.
Notes & Tips
No fresh mango? Use pineapple or canned mango chunks (drained and chopped).
Make it less spicy: Omit the cayenne and chili in the salsa. Use sweet paprika instead of smoked if desired.
Add crunch: Toasted pepitas or slivered radishes make a great topping.
Tortilla tip: For extra flavor, lightly char tortillas over an open flame or in a skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing?
A: Yes! Skewer and grill over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Definitely — just skip any cream toppings or use dairy-free yogurt.
Q: What can I serve with these tacos?
A: Great sides include cilantro-lime rice, black beans, grilled corn, or tortilla chips with guac.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 360
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 550mg