Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, these tacos are a hit with seafood lovers. The combination of spicy shrimp, sweet mango slaw, and creamy avocado crema creates a unique taste experience that is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a quick prep time of just 20 minutes, these tacos are perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous get-togethers.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients provides a mouthwatering taste that balances heat and sweetness beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the toppings and sides for a personalized touch, making it adaptable for different dietary preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the shrimp and nutrients from the mango and cabbage, these tacos offer a great healthy meal choice.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a festive celebration, these tacos fit right in.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or large pan: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp, giving them that perfect char.
• Blender or food processor: This tool is essential for creating a smooth avocado crema that ties all the flavors together.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to easily prepare and combine ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For these delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, gather the following 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 needed)
• 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 including chipotle powder, smoked paprika, ancho chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, epozote (or thyme), sugar, and kosher salt. Add in the shrimp. Toss well to coat evenly. Allow it to marinate for 5–10 minutes while you prep other components.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Slaw

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

Step 3: Blend the Avocado Crema

In your blender or food processor, add chopped avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic cloves (as needed), lime juice, and jalapeño. Blend until smooth; taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

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

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

Warm up small corn tortillas by charring them on an open flame for about 20 seconds per side. Once warmed through, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm until serving.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Spread some avocado crema onto each warm tortilla. Top with cooked shrimp followed by mango slaw. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over!

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

Spicy shrimp tacos are a delightful dish that can be customized in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight meal, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Taco Bar Experience

• Set up a DIY taco bar with all the fixings. Guests can build their own tacos, adding the mango slaw, avocado crema, and any additional toppings they prefer.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Squeezing lime over the tacos enhances their taste.

Colorful Garnishes

• Add colorful garnishes like sliced radishes or jalapeños. These not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.

Complementary Salsas

• Offer a variety of salsas, such as mango salsa or pico de gallo. These fresh toppings add layers of flavor that pair well with the tacos.

Crispy Tortilla Chips

• Include a side of crispy tortilla chips and guacamole. This creates a fun appetizer that complements the main dish perfectly.

Refreshing Beverages

• Pair with refreshing beverages like iced tea or margaritas. These drinks balance the spice of the shrimp, making for an enjoyable meal.

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

Perfecting spicy shrimp tacos requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here’s how you can ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for longer than 10 minutes can deepen the flavor profile.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cilantro, lime, and ripe avocados for the best taste and texture in your tacos.
• Control Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of chipotle powder to control heat levels based on your preference and guests’ tolerance.
• Warm Tortillas Correctly: Warming tortillas evenly helps maintain their flexibility and prevents tearing when filled.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to try additional toppings like feta cheese or pickled onions for added flavor complexity.
• Rest Your Slaw: Letting the mango slaw rest allows flavors to meld together, enhancing its overall taste.

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

To round out your meal, consider serving side dishes that complement spicy shrimp tacos beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn: This flavorful corn dish is grilled and topped with cheese, lime, and spices, making it a perfect pairing.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro adds protein and freshness.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime offers a nice base that balances the spiciness of the tacos.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a healthy side that enhances the meal’s color.
5. Guacamole & Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser alongside tacos.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro adds zest and freshness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Not seasoning the shrimp properly – Failing to use enough spices can make your tacos bland. Make sure to coat the shrimp evenly with all the spices before cooking.
• Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for 3-4 minutes until they are opaque and firm.
• Ignoring the mango slaw resting time – Skipping the resting period for the slaw may result in a crunchy texture. Let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes to soften.
• Using cold tortillas – Serving cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them up just before serving for the best taste and texture.
• Skipping the avocado crema – The crema adds creaminess and flavor. Don’t skip this step; blend it well for a smooth consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Place shrimp and slaw in separate containers.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds per taco, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, here are some common questions!

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning.

What if I can’t find mango?

You can substitute mango with pineapple or papaya for a similar sweet flavor.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spiciness comes from chipotle powder and jalapeño. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.

Can I make the avocado crema ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding more veggies or swapping out proteins. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Give them a try today!