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; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste; Corn tortillas; Sliced avocado; Additional lime wedges

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I am always on the lookout for vibrant and flavorful dishes, and these Zesty Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw never disappoint. Every bite bursts with freshness, thanks to the combination of perfectly spiced shrimp and sweet, tangy mango slaw. These tacos are not only quick to make but also bring a fiesta to the table, making them perfect for any casual gathering. The creamy avocado sauce elevates the flavors, transforming a simple recipe into a showstopper that I believe everyone will love.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:21:27.871Z

When I first attempted making these tacos, I experimented with different spices to truly capture the zesty essence. The key is to balance the seasoning on the shrimp, and I found that a mixture of cumin and paprika brings out an incredible depth of flavor. I also love to add a touch of lime juice to enhance the freshness of the dish.

Preparing the mango slaw was another fun part of the process. I discovered that letting the slaw sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a simple trick that elevates the dish, making the meal even more enjoyable. Trust me, every guest will be grabbing seconds!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Vibrant and fresh flavors from the mango slaw
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
A delightful combination of textures with crispy tortillas and juicy shrimp

The Importance of Marinating Shrimp

Marinating shrimp is a crucial step in achieving maximum flavor. The shrimp absorbs the spices and lime juice, which not only enhances its taste but also helps to tenderize the meat. Aim to let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes. This brief period allows the shrimp to soak up the cumin, paprika, and garlic, making every bite incredibly flavorful. If you're short on time, even a quick roll in the marinade can help, but letting it sit is ideal.

While many people might overlook the seasoning process, it's essential for balancing the sweetness of the mango slaw. The spices create a beautiful contrast that elevates the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick. These small adjustments can create new dimensions of flavor that enhance your taco experience.

Tips for Perfect Mango Slaw

When creating your mango slaw, the freshness of the ingredients plays an integral role in the final taste. Use a ripe mango that gives slightly under pressure to ensure sweetness without overwhelming the slaw. Also, make sure to chop all the veggies uniformly; this will ensure even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the slaw. I recommend giving the mango a nice dice—this way, you can enjoy those juicy bursts in every bite.

The lime juice not only adds tanginess but also helps in keeping the slaw crisp. If you prepare the slaw ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a maximum of one day. Just be mindful that the longer it sits, the softer it becomes. To revive the freshness, you can quickly toss in some extra lime juice and cilantro just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your zesty shrimp tacos:

For the shrimp:

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

For the mango slaw:

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 ripe mango, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

For serving:

Corn tortillas
Sliced avocado
Additional lime wedges

Make sure to prep everything ahead of time for a seamless taco assembly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your zesty shrimp tacos:

Prepare the shrimp

In a bowl, mix the shrimp with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the slaw.

Make the mango slaw

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let it sit for at least 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.

Cook the shrimp

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

Assemble the tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Top each tortilla with shrimp, mango slaw, and sliced avocado. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your tacos fresh for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add some hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Zesty Shrimp Tacos shine on their own, but a few complementary sides can make your meal even more exciting. Pair these tacos with a simple black bean salad or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a balance of flavors and textures. A light, zesty salsa, perhaps with some diced avocado or a touch of heat from diced serrano chiles, can also add a nice contrast to the shrimp's flavor.

If you want to add a party feel, set up a taco bar where guests can customize their tacos with salsas, sliced radishes, or even some pickled red onions. This interactive element not only enhances your meal but also engages your guests. Offering various toppings can help everyone personalize their tacos, ensuring each bite is just how they like it.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're looking to save time, both the shrimp and mango slaw can be prepared ahead of time. The shrimp can marinate up to an hour if you have the time, while the mango slaw can be mixed and refrigerated earlier in the day. Just toss the slaw again before serving to refresh it. Be careful, however, not to store the slaw too long, as it may lose crunch and become overly soggy.

For leftovers, store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers to maintain their textures. Reheat the shrimp briefly in a skillet over medium heat, just long enough to warm through—about 2 to 3 minutes—taking care not to overcook it, as it will become rubbery. Enjoying these tacos the next day is a great way to savor the vibrant flavors again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure you thaw and drain them well before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for mango if it’s not in season?

Pineapple or papaya can work well as substitutes for mango in the slaw.

→ Can these tacos be made ahead of time?

While the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge.

→ What else can I add to my tacos?

Sour cream, feta cheese, or pickled red onions can add great flavor and texture!