If you're looking for a meal that feels like a mini-vacation on a plate, these Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa are your ticket to paradise. They're fresh, vibrant, and bring a little tropical flair to any meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
The star of the show is, of course, the shrimp. It’s lean, cooks quickly, and takes on the flavors of the spices beautifully. The olive oil helps the spices adhere to the shrimp and adds a touch of richness. A blend of chili powder, garlic powder, and ground cumin gives the shrimp a warm, spicy kick. For the salsa, mangos provide sweetness and juiciness, while red onion adds a bit of crunch. The jalapeño brings the heat, which you can adjust to your liking. Cilantro adds freshness, and the lime juice ties everything together with a zesty finish. Don't forget the corn tortillas — they're the perfect vessel for all these flavors.
These tacos pair beautifully with a side of black beans or a light cucumber salad. A cold, refreshing drink like a citrusy margarita or a simple limeade would complement the meal perfectly.
Start by marinating the shrimp. In a medium bowl, toss together the shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated — this is where they soak up all that flavor magic. Let them sit while you prep the salsa.
Next, make the mango salsa. Dice your ripe mangos and toss them into a bowl with the finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Gently stir everything together, being careful not to mash the mango — you want those lovely, juicy chunks intact.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They cook fast, so keep an eye on them. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Warm up the corn tortillas. You can do this in the same skillet you used for the shrimp or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. Warming them makes them pliable and enhances their flavor.
Now, it's time to assemble. Place a few shrimp in each tortilla and top with a generous spoonful of mango salsa. Serve them up right away while everything is still warm and fresh.
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