Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a delightful fusion of flavors that brighten up any meal. Perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, these tacos boast juicy shrimp paired with a sweet and tangy mango slaw, all topped off with a creamy avocado sauce. This dish is not only vibrant but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously bold taste.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can enjoy these tacos in just 25 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out shrimp for your favorite protein or use seasonal fruits for the slaw.
• Healthy Option: Packed with seafood and fresh veggies, these tacos make a nutritious meal.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties or family nights, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, having the right tools will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or food processor
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or large pan: Essential for cooking shrimp evenly and quickly.
• Blender or food processor: Makes preparing the avocado crema smooth and easy.
• Cutting board and knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables and fruits safely and 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 tortilla
• 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 listed above. Add the shrimp to this mixture and toss until well-coated. Allow it to marinate for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Slaw

In another bowl, mix together the diced mango, finely shredded red cabbage, lime juice (or vinegar), salt, and sugar. Toss everything to combine well. Let it rest for about 5–10 minutes to soften. Finally, add in cilantro and green onions before setting aside.

Step 3: Blend the Avocado Crema

In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients for the avocado crema. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter. Once hot, cook the marinated shrimp for about 3–4 minutes, flipping halfway through until they turn opaque and firm.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

Warm each small corn tortilla over an open flame for about 20 seconds per side until charred slightly. Alternatively, wrap them in damp paper towels and heat them in a low oven (250°F) until warm.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Spread some avocado crema on each tortilla. Stack them high with cooked shrimp and mango slaw. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over top as desired. Enjoy your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema!

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

Spicy shrimp tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra heat, add sliced jalapeños directly onto the tacos.
• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes add a crunchy texture and a peppery taste.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Avocado Crema: Serve additional avocado crema on the side for dipping or drizzling.
• Hot Sauce: Offer a variety of hot sauces to cater to different spice preferences.
• Salsa Verde: A tangy salsa verde complements the shrimp beautifully.

Serve with Fresh Sides

• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad pairs well and adds a sweet crunch.
• Crispy Tortilla Chips: Provide tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy side option.

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

To make your spicy shrimp tacos truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Marination: Allow the shrimp to marinate longer for deeper flavor absorption.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh mango and ripe avocados for the best taste and texture.
• Temperature Control: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the shrimp without overcooking them.
• Tortilla Technique: Warm tortillas just before serving for optimal softness and pliability.

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

Enhance your meal by pairing your spicy shrimp tacos with these delicious side dishes.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, lime, and chili powder creates a flavorful companion.
2. Black Bean Salad: A fresh black bean salad offers protein and fiber, balancing out the meal.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime juice and cilantro complements the tacos perfectly.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit; serve it as an appetizer or alongside the tacos.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa provides brightness and acidity that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. Aim for 3-4 minutes until they are opaque and firm.
• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the shrimp to marinate can reduce flavor. Let them sit in spices for at least 5-10 minutes.
• Neglecting the slaw: Failing to let the mango slaw rest can lead to a crunchy texture. Allow it to soften for 5-10 minutes after mixing.
• Not balancing flavors: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning in the crema or slaw can lead to bland toppings. Always sample before serving.
• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can ruin your taco experience. Warm them up on an open flame or in the oven for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep components separate (shrimp, slaw, crema) to maintain freshness.

Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Freeze cooked shrimp separately from other ingredients for up to 1 month.
• Store in freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air.

Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat shrimp for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat shrimp in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking often.
• Stovetop: Reheat shrimp over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating.

What types of tortillas work best?

Small corn tortillas are ideal as they complement the flavors of the spicy shrimp tacos perfectly.

How can I customize the avocado crema?

You can add lime zest or extra garlic for more flavor, depending on your preference.

What if I don’t have mango?

If mango is unavailable, try substituting it with pineapple or peach for a different twist!

Final Thoughts

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema offer a delightful blend of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. This dish is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that promises joy at every bite!