Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw

Name: Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup mango, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love these Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw! The vibrant flavors of the shrimp mixed with the sweetness of the mango bring a burst of freshness to every bite. I find that the combination of spices creates a delightful zing that pairs perfectly with the crunchy slaw. Whether it's a simple weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos never fail to impress. They come together quickly, and I often make extra slaw to enjoy as a refreshing side dish. You’ll want to add this recipe to your collection!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:02:28.016Z

When I first decided to try making Zesty Shrimp Tacos, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful they turned out. It was a beautiful summer evening, and I wanted something light but satisfying. The marinade for the shrimp was a blend of lime and spices that not only enhanced the flavor but also created a fragrant aroma in my kitchen. As I prepped the tacos, I couldn’t resist tasting the slaw, which turned out to be a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.

One of the tips I discovered while making this recipe is to allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 10 minutes, which really enhances their flavor without overshadowing the ingredients in the slaw. The tacos are best served immediately, but if I have leftovers, I love using the shrimp and slaw in a salad the next day. Trust me; they’re delicious in any form!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy shrimp packed with zesty flavor
Crunchy mango slaw adds a tropical twist
Quick and easy to make for weeknight dinners

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh shrimp is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in these tacos. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild scent of the ocean. If you're in an area where certain fresh seafood options are available, consider using a local variety for an even more unique and delicious taste.

The mango slaw is another star of the dish, so selecting perfectly ripe mangoes is key. They should yield slightly to pressure, indicating sweetness and juiciness. If fresh mangoes aren't available, you can substitute with diced canned mango in juice instead of syrup, which will maintain the tropical flavor and the recipe's refreshing profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

To ensure even cooking of the shrimp, make sure they are similar in size. This uniformity prevents some from overcooking while others remain undercooked. I recommend using a cast-iron skillet if you have one; it retains heat well, providing a nice sear that enhances the shrimp's flavor.

Watch for the color change in the shrimp as a cooking cue; they should transition from a grayish hue to a pink and opaque appearance. Avoid cooking them longer than 4 minutes per side, as overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. If you notice that they have become tough and chewy, they likely need less cooking time next time.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These tacos are wonderful served fresh, but if you have leftovers, the shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, the mango slaw is best enjoyed the same day, as it retains its crunch and vibrant flavor. For make-ahead options, prepare the slaw and shrimp mixture separately the day before, then combine just before serving.

To add a personal touch, consider serving your tacos with a variety of toppings such as avocado slices, jalapeños for heat, or a drizzle of creamy cilantro dressing. These enhancements can elevate your taco night and offer fun variations that allow guests to customize their meals to their liking.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup mango, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

For Serving

8 small corn tortillas
Lime wedges

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

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

Make the Mango Slaw

In another bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.

Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp are cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan until soft.

Assemble the Tacos

To assemble, place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with mango slaw, and add a squeeze of lime.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding avocado slices or a drizzle of spicy mayonnaise on top of the tacos.

Elevating Your Taco Night

To make taco night even more special, consider pairing these zesty shrimp tacos with a refreshing drink like a citrusy margarita or a light beer. The acidity in both drinks complements the flavors of the shrimp and mango slaw exceptionally well, bringing an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.

Consider setting up a taco bar if hosting friends or family. Provide various toppings like pickled vegetables, shredded cheese, and different salsas. Guests can build their own tacos, making the experience interactive and personalized.

Reheating and Repurposing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover shrimp, they can easily be transformed into a delightful salad. Toss the shrimp with some mixed greens, additional mango, and a light vinaigrette for a quick lunch option the next day. Heat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent the shrimp from overcooking.

Another great way to use up leftovers is to wrap the shrimp in a quesadilla with cheese and serve it with sour cream. This not only makes for a satisfying meal but also keeps the delicious flavors of the original tacos intact while adding a cheesy twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

→ What type of tortillas should I use?

Corn tortillas work best for authenticity, but you can also use flour tortillas if preferred.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili powder or include some diced jalapeños in the mango slaw for an extra kick.

→ Can I prepare the slaw a day ahead?

Absolutely! The slaw can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.