Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp seasoned with spices, a refreshing mango slaw, and creamy avocado crema, creating a flavorful explosion in every bite. The balance of spice and sweetness makes these tacos irresistible, appealing to both seafood lovers and those looking for a unique taco experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious tacos in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients offers a delightful taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as tacos or create a bowl by layering the shrimp and slaw over rice for a satisfying meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean shrimp, fresh veggies, and wholesome avocado, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These tacos are great for sharing at parties or enjoying during family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema is straightforward with the right tools. Having the essential equipment on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or food processor
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for cooking shrimp quickly while achieving that perfect sear.
• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating the smooth avocado crema that complements the tacos beautifully.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for prepping all your fresh ingredients efficiently.

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 tortillas
• 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. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Allow it to marinate for 5-10 minutes while you prep the other parts.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Slaw

Combine the diced mango, finely shredded red cabbage, lime juice or vinegar, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Toss well to combine. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to soften. Add chopped cilantro and green onions before setting aside.

Step 3: Make the Avocado Crema

In a blender or food processor, blend together the avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic cloves (to taste), lime juice, and jalapeño until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil or butter once hot. Cook the marinated shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are opaque and firm.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Char small corn tortillas over an open flame for about 20 seconds per side until warm. Alternatively, stack them wrapped in a damp paper towel in an oven set at 250°F until ready to serve.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Spread some avocado crema onto each warm tortilla. Top with cooked shrimp and mango slaw. Serve with an extra squeeze of lime if desired. Enjoy your Spicy Shrimp Tacos!

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Serving Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these delicious tacos.

For a Casual Gathering

• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar where guests can customize their own tacos with shrimp, mango slaw, and avocado crema.
• Garnish Options: Provide extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for added flavor.

For a Family Dinner

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the tacos on a large platter for a family-style dinner. Add colorful garnishes around the tacos for visual appeal.
• Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors of the tacos.

For Meal Prep

• Individual Containers: Prepare individual servings in meal prep containers. Pack the shrimp, slaw, and crema separately to keep everything fresh.
• Quick Reheat: Include instructions for reheating the shrimp and tortillas for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Perfecting your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you use adequate spices when marinating shrimp for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh mango and vegetables; they significantly enhance the taste of your slaw.
• Creamy Texture: Blend your avocado crema until smooth for a luscious texture that complements the tacos well.
• Tortilla Warmth: Warm tortillas right before serving to maintain their softness and enhance their flavor.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like cilantro or lime; they add brightness to every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Adding side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Spicy Shrimp Tacos.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, lime, cheese, and spices that pairs perfectly with tacos.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime juice and fresh cilantro provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, bell peppers, onions, and a zesty dressing adds protein and fiber.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips makes for a delightful appetizer before the main dish.
5. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with chili powder bring an additional layer of flavor.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa enhances the overall taste profile of your meal while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it rubbery. Aim for 3-4 minutes until opaque.
• Ignoring seasoning balance: Not adjusting spices can lead to bland tacos. Taste your shrimp and slaw before serving, adding salt or lime juice as needed.
• Using unripe mango: An unripe mango can be too firm and sour. Choose a ripe one for sweetness and juiciness in your slaw.
• Skipping the marination step: Marinating shrimp enhances flavor. Allow at least 5-10 minutes for maximum taste.
• Neglecting tortilla preparation: Cold tortillas can dull the flavors. Warm them properly to enhance texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Place assembled tacos in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat tacos wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm, being cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over low heat, place tacos in the pan, cover, and heat for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema.

What type of shrimp should I use for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema?

Use large, deveined shrimp for the best texture and ease of cooking.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and slaw ahead of time but assemble them just before serving for the freshest taste.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days when properly stored.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by using different vegetables or proteins as per your preference.

What makes avocado crema so special?

Avocado crema adds creaminess and balances the spicy flavors of the tacos, enhancing overall taste.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding more veggies or swapping ingredients based on what you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give it a try!

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Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (about 8 tacos) 1x

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Description

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema offer a vibrant explosion of flavors that will elevate any meal. These tacos combine succulent shrimp, expertly seasoned with a medley of spices, paired with a refreshing mango slaw and creamy avocado crema. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or preparing a weeknight dinner, this dish is both quick to prepare and delightful to serve. The balance of spice and sweetness makes these tacos irresistible, appealing to seafood lovers and culinary adventurers alike. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this easy yet delicious recipe.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 neutral oil
• 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
• 1 medium ripe avocado, chopped
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1–2 small cloves garlic (use as needed)
• 3–4 tbsp lime juice
• ½–1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• small corn tortillas
• sliced lime as needed

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Instructions

1. In a bowl combine all the spices. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Allow it to marinate for 5-10 minutes while you prep the other parts.
2. Combine the diced mango, finely shredded red cabbage, lime juice or vinegar, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Toss well to combine. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to soften. Add chopped cilantro and green onions before setting aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend together the avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic cloves (to taste), lime juice, and jalapeño until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Set aside.
4. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil once hot. Cook the marinated shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are opaque and firm.
5. Char small corn tortillas over an open flame for about 20 seconds per side until warm. Alternatively, stack them wrapped in a damp paper towel in an oven set at 250°F until ready to serve.
6. Spread some avocado crema onto each warm tortilla. Top with cooked shrimp and mango slaw. Serve with an extra squeeze of lime if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 150mg