Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With a blend of spices that elevate the shrimp and a refreshing mango slaw paired with creamy avocado crema, these tacos are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe brings excitement to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices on the shrimp and the sweetness of mango creates an irresistible taste.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce like avocado and cabbage, these tacos are both delicious and nutritious.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: These tacos are fantastic for prepping ahead of time; just store components separately until ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
To make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Blender or food processor
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or frying pan: Essential for cooking the shrimp evenly, giving them a lovely char.
- Blender or food processor: Perfect for quickly making the avocado crema smooth and creamy.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Necessary for efficiently chopping vegetables and fruits.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1¼ lbs large shrimp, deveined
- ¼-½ tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ancho chili powder
- ½ tsp granulated onion powder
- ½ tsp granulated garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried epozote or thyme or Mexican oregano
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (or any neutral oil)
For the Mango Slaw
- large mango, diced into small pieces
- ¼ head red cabbage, finely shredded (about 3½ cups)
- 2-3 stalks scallions or green onions, chopped
- 1-2 tbsp lime juice or vinegar
- 2-3 tbsp chopped cilantro
- ¼ tsp sugar
- kosher salt as needed
For the Avocado Crema
- 1 medium ripe avocado, chopped
- ½ cup greek yogurt
- 1-2 small cloves garlic (use as you need)
- 3-4 tbsp lime juice
- ½-1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
For Serving
- small corn tortilla
- sliced lime as needed
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine all the spices listed under For the Shrimp. Add in the shrimp and toss well. Allow it to marinate for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Prepare the Mango Slaw
In another bowl, combine:
Diced mango
Finely shredded red cabbage
Lime juice or vinegar
Sugar
Kosher salt
Toss everything together and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to soften. Then add chopped cilantro and green onions before setting aside.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Crema
In your blender or food processor, blend together:
Chopped avocado
Greek yogurt
Garlic (as needed)
Lime juice
Chopped jalapeño
Adjust seasoning if necessary. Set this creamy mixture aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or butter. Cook the marinated shrimp for about 3–4 minutes, flipping occasionally until they are opaque and firm.
Step 5: Warm Tortillas
Warm small corn tortillas by charring them over an open flame for about 20 seconds per side. Alternatively, you can heat them in a low oven (250°F), wrapped in a damp paper towel, then tightly in aluminum foil.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
Spread some avocado crema on each warm tortilla. Stack with cooked shrimp and top off with mango slaw. Serve with an extra squeeze of lime as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema!
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Spicy shrimp tacos with mango slaw and avocado crema are vibrant and delicious, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Taco Bar
- Create a taco bar where guests can customize their own tacos. Provide a variety of toppings like extra cilantro, jalapeños, and lime wedges for added flavor.
Garnish Options
- Add fresh herbs or microgreens on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. This adds an appealing touch to your presentation.
Pair with Drinks
- Serve these tacos alongside refreshing drinks like cucumber limeade or a light beer. These beverages complement the spicy flavors beautifully.
Plating Ideas
- Use colorful plates to showcase the vibrant colors of the tacos. A rustic wooden board also works well for a casual look.
Leftovers Storage
- If you have any leftovers, store them separately in airtight containers. The shrimp will stay fresh, and the slaw will retain its crunch.
How to Perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
To make your spicy shrimp tacos even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.
Marinate Properly: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mango and ripe avocados elevate the taste. Always opt for seasonal produce when possible.
Control Heat Level: Adjust chipotle powder according to your heat preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
Warm Tortillas: Warm tortillas before serving. This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like pickled onions or crumbled queso fresco for added texture and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Pairing side dishes with your spicy shrimp tacos can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options:
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice offers a sweet and savory contrast.
Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad made with diced bell peppers, red onion, and lime dressing adds protein and fiber.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with tacos. Serve it as a dip or spread it directly on your tacos.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime complements the spices in the tacos beautifully.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo made from tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro adds a zesty kick that complements the shrimp.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa provide a great appetizer option before indulging in the main dish.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled to perfection add a smoky flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
Watermelon Salad: A refreshing watermelon salad with mint offers a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors of the tacos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out perfect.
- Skipping the Marinade – Not letting the shrimp marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always allow at least 5-10 minutes for the spices to soak in.
- Overcooking the Shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Aim for 3-4 minutes until they are opaque and firm.
- Neglecting Tortilla Prep – Skipping the warming step can lead to tough tortillas. Warm them briefly over an open flame or in the oven for better texture.
- Not Balancing Flavors – Failing to taste and adjust seasoning, especially salt and lime juice, can affect the overall dish. Always taste your slaw and crema before serving.
- Using Unripe Avocado – An unripe avocado won’t blend well into a creamy texture. Ensure your avocado is ripe for a smooth crema.
- Forgetting Presentation – Tacos should be visually appealing. Make sure to stack your ingredients neatly for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
- Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.
Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place wrapped tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Warm each taco on a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute per side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema spicier?
You can add more chipotle powder or diced jalapeño to increase the heat level according to your preference.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just make sure they are fully thawed before marinating.
What toppings can I add besides mango slaw?
Consider adding fresh diced tomatoes, radishes, or crumbled cheese for extra flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover mango slaw?
Store leftover mango slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or spice levels. Enjoy this vibrant dish at your next gathering or as a satisfying weeknight dinner!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a colorful, flavor-packed dish that brings a tropical twist to your dinner table.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1¼ lbs large shrimp
- 1 large mango
- ¼ head red cabbage
- 1 medium ripe avocado
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- Lime juice
- ¼–½ tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ancho chili powder
- ½ tsp granulated onion powder
- ½ tsp granulated garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried epozote or thyme or Mexican oregano
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2–3 stalks scallions or green onions
- 1–2 tbsp lime juice or vinegar
- 2–3 tbsp chopped cilantro
- ¼ tsp sugar
- kosher salt as needed
- 1–2 small cloves garlic
- ½–1 jalapeño
- small corn tortillas
- sliced lime as needed
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp in spices for 5–10 minutes.
- Mix diced mango, shredded cabbage, lime juice, sugar, and salt in a bowl for the slaw; let sit.
- Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic, lime juice, and jalapeño for the crema.
- In a skillet, cook marinated shrimp until opaque (about 3–4 minutes).
- Warm corn tortillas and assemble tacos with crema, shrimp, and slaw.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: Adjust spice levels by varying chipotle powder. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Leftover components can be stored separately in the fridge.
