Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw

Name: Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt to taste; Tortillas; Sliced avocado; Lime wedges; Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I absolutely love how vibrant and delicious these Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw are! The combination of spicy shrimp, crunchy mango slaw, and fresh toppings creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any taco night. Each bite is a refreshing delight, and I've found that this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it's a gathering with friends or a casual family dinner, these tacos always impress and leave everyone wanting more!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:58:28.169Z

When I first tried making these shrimp tacos, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they turned out. The shrimp are marinated with a blend of spices that not only provides depth but also enhances the natural sweetness. Pairing the shrimp with the sweet and tangy mango slaw takes the experience to a whole new level. I've experimented with different fruits in the slaw, but sweet mangos truly shine here.

To make the preparation smoother, I recommend prepping your ingredients beforehand. Having the toppings washed and cut will streamline the assembly process. Additionally, using fresh lime juice in both the shrimp marinade and slaw brightens everything up and elevates the dish. Trust me, these tacos are a must-try!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Juicy shrimp packed with spices for an unforgettable kick
Sweet and crunchy mango slaw that balances the dish perfectly
Quick to make - perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings

The Art of Marinating Shrimp

Marinating the shrimp is essential for infusing the flavors of the spices into the meat. The olive oil not only keeps the shrimp moist but also helps the spices adhere better. Allowing the shrimp to sit for at least 10 minutes gives the chili powder, cumin, and paprika time to penetrate the shrimp, enhancing each bite with a burst of flavor. If you're planning ahead, you can marinate them for up to 30 minutes in the fridge for even deeper flavor.

When cooking shrimp, it’s easy to overdo it. Keep an eye on them as they cook; the transition from translucent to opaque is your cue to flip them. A good rule of thumb is to cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. Once they start curling on the edges and are tender, they are ready. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so be vigilant!

Creating the Perfect Mango Slaw

The mango slaw is not just a topping; it's a key component that contributes both freshness and texture to the tacos. The sweetness of the ripe mango contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the cabbage and the crispness of the bell pepper. If you find that your mango isn’t quite ripe, you can add a touch of honey or agave to balance the flavors, or a sprinkle of sugar to elevate the sweetness without losing the savory elements.

For those looking to make the slaw ahead of time, it holds up surprisingly well. Just prepare the slaw and keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. This way, the flavors can meld, and you’ll have a vibrant topping ready to go when it's time to assemble the tacos. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to re-incorporate any juices that may settle.

Taco Assembly Tips

When it comes to warming tortillas, consider using a skillet for that perfect char. Heat your skillet on medium for a few minutes, then add the tortillas one at a time, warming them for about 30 seconds on each side until they're pliable and slightly toasted. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds structural integrity, ensuring they can hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.

Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños for heat, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy touch. You can also serve them with a simple salsa or a drizzling of hot sauce for those who like an extra kick. Making these tacos your own can elevate the experience and make each bite uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime

For the Mango Slaw

1 cup shredded cabbage
1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice
Salt to taste

For Serving

Tortillas
Sliced avocado
Lime wedges
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Make the Mango Slaw

In another bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, diced mango, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss everything until well combined and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in another skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the shrimp mixture and top with mango slaw. Add sliced avocado and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Serve

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

Top your tacos with extra cilantro or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, each component can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 2 days, while the mango slaw will retain its crunch for about 1 day. If you reheat the shrimp, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid toughening them up; just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to uneven cooking.

For anyone looking to hold onto the freshness longer, consider freezing the cooked shrimp. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm as mentioned.

Variations on the Classic

Experimenting with different proteins can offer exciting twists on this recipe. Try replacing the shrimp with diced chicken, tofu, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to marinate them accordingly to infuse those bold flavors. Cooking times will vary, especially for chicken, which should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

You might also consider a tropical twist by adding diced pineapple to the mango slaw or using corn tortillas instead for a different texture. Each variation can create a unique profile, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What else can I add to the mango slaw?

You can add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or avocado for creaminess.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just keep it refrigerated and toss it before serving.

→ What type of tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas are traditional and work well, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer.