Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema is the perfect dish for taco night or a casual gathering. These tacos combine succulent shrimp with a refreshing mango slaw and creamy avocado crema, making them a flavorful option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these tacos are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices in the shrimp and the sweetness of mango creates an irresistible combination.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with seafood, fresh veggies, and wholesome fats from avocado, these tacos are both tasty and nutritious.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or extra cilantro for added flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners, parties, or simply a fun weeknight meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Blender
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or large pan: Ideal for cooking shrimp quickly while achieving that perfect sear.
• Blender: Makes it easy to whip up a smooth avocado crema in no time.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for marinating shrimp and mixing the slaw ingredients.

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: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

In a bowl combine all the spices: chipotle powder, smoked paprika, ancho chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, dried herbs, sugar, and kosher salt. Add shrimp to the bowl. Toss everything together well. Let it marinate for 5–10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Mango Slaw

Combine diced mango, finely shredded red cabbage, lime juice (or vinegar), sugar, and kosher salt in another mixing bowl. Toss to combine all ingredients. Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes to help soften the cabbage. Add chopped cilantro and green onions right before serving.

Step 3: Blend the Avocado Crema

In your blender, add chopped avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic cloves (adjust based on your taste), lime juice, and chopped jalapeño. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before setting aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet or large pan over medium heat. Add olive oil (or butter) once hot. Cook the marinated shrimp for about 3–4 minutes total. Flip halfway through cooking until they are opaque and firm.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Warm corn tortillas on an open flame for about 20 seconds per side until slightly charred. Alternatively, heat them in a low oven at 250°F wrapped in damp paper towel covered in aluminum foil.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Spread some avocado crema on each warm tortilla. Stack with cooked shrimp followed by mango slaw. Serve with slices of lime on the side to squeeze over your tacos as needed.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema!

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

Serving Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema is all about enhancing the flavors and creating an inviting presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Taco Bar Extravaganza

• Set up a taco bar with all the toppings and sauces for guests to customize their own tacos.
• Include options like extra mango slaw, avocado crema, and additional lime wedges for a fresh twist.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the tacos for an added burst of freshness.
• This simple touch elevates the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile.

Pair with Refreshing Drinks

• Serve with a light, refreshing beverage like a margarita or a fruit-infused water.
• This complements the spicy shrimp and balances the meal beautifully.

Serve with Extra Lime Wedges

• Provide additional lime wedges on the side for guests who love that zesty kick.
• It enhances the tartness of the avocado crema and brings out the shrimp’s flavor.

Create a Platter Presentation

• Arrange tacos on a large platter, garnished with lime slices and cilantro.
• This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at gatherings or family dinners.

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

To make your Spicy Shrimp Tacos truly shine, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance flavors and ensure perfect texture every time.

• Marinate shrimp properly: Allowing shrimp to marinate for 5-10 minutes helps infuse them with flavor from spices.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mango, ripe avocados, and crisp cabbage will add vibrant flavors and textures.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify chipotle powder based on your spice preference for a milder or hotter taco.
• Warm tortillas correctly: Heating tortillas until slightly charred adds depth of flavor while keeping them pliable for easy folding.
• Mix slaw just before serving: To maintain crunchiness in your mango slaw, mix it shortly before serving to avoid sogginess.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding sliced jalapeños or pickled onions to bring more complexity to your taco experience.

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

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes a delicious complement.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing provides protein-rich goodness alongside tacos.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime juice adds a zesty base that pairs well with shrimp tacos.
4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips is always a crowd favorite that enhances any taco night.
5. Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with spices can provide a hearty side that balances out the lightness of the tacos.
6. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro adds brightness to every bite of taco.
7. Refried Beans: Smooth refried beans offer a classic Mexican side that’s rich in flavor and pairs well with shrimp tacos.
8. Zucchini Noodles Salad: A light salad made from zucchini noodles tossed in lime vinaigrette offers a healthy contrast to spicy shrimp tacos.

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 makes it rubbery. Aim for 3-4 minutes until they are opaque.
• Skipping the marinade: Marinating shrimp enhances flavor. Even a short 5-10 minutes is beneficial, so don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring the slaw preparation: Allowing the mango slaw to rest helps soften the cabbage. Don’t rush this process; it improves taste and texture.
• Using stale tortillas: Fresh, warm tortillas elevate your tacos. Always use fresh tortillas and warm them just before serving.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings in both the slaw and crema to match your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep shrimp, slaw, and crema separate for best texture.

Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Freeze shrimp separately in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• Slaw can be frozen but may lose crunch; consider freezing without dressing.

Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap shrimp in foil and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Sauté gently on low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw ahead of time?

You can prepare the component parts ahead of time. Just store them separately until you’re ready to serve.

What type of shrimp should I use?

Use large, deveined shrimp for best results. Fresh or frozen both work well; just ensure they’re thawed properly.

How do I customize my Spicy Shrimp Tacos?

Feel free to add toppings like diced tomatoes, cheese, or hot sauce according to your taste preferences.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap mango for pineapple or use different greens instead of red cabbage.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a fresh take on tacos that pack a flavorful punch. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Feel free to get creative with toppings or substitute ingredients based on what you have at home!