The Soft Simmer

If you’re looking for an easy dish that tastes like summer, this recipe is definitely for you. The bright and vibrant flavors of mango jalapeño salsa combine harmoniously with the spicy kick of the shrimp, creating a delightful eating experience that is sure to transport your taste buds to sun-soaked beaches and warm, breezy evenings.

This dish not only captures the essence of summer but also showcases the freshness of seasonal ingredients. The ripe mangoes, bursting with sweetness, provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the jalapeño peppers, which add a zesty and slightly spicy element to the mix. Together, these ingredients create a salsa that is both refreshing and exciting, making it the perfect accompaniment to the succulent shrimp.

To prepare the mango jalapeño salsa, start by dicing the mango into small cubes and combine them with finely chopped jalapeño, and fresh cilantro. The addition of lime juice not only enhances the flavors but also adds a tangy brightness that elevates the entire dish. For those who enjoy a little more heat, consider adding extra jalapeño or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.

Once the salsa is prepared, focus on the shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and spices. Garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper work beautifully to enhance the flavor profile. If using raw shrimp, after marinating, grill or sauté the shrimp until they are perfectly cooked, ensuring they remain tender and juicy. To save time on weeknights, I’ll buy cooked shrimp. This makes prep work a breeze and cuts down on cook time substantially without compromising taste. 

I enjoy serving these on warm corn tortillas. It’s important to heat the tortillas to prevent them from breaking during assembly. Place the salsa over the shrimp on the tortillas, then add fresh avocado on top, and you’re ready to go!

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, enjoying a casual family dinner, or simply craving a taste of sunshine, this recipe is sure to impress. It embodies the carefree spirit of summer while providing a satisfying and delicious meal that is easy to prepare. Enjoy this dish with a chilled beverage, and savor the taste of summer all year round.

These tacos are the perfect mix of sweet and spicy—juicy shrimp sautéed with jalapeño and lime, topped with a fresh mango salsa that adds a tropical twist. Quick to make and packed with flavor, they’re ideal for summer dinners or a fun twist on Taco Tuesday.

Mango Jalapeño Shrimp Tacos

Serves: 4

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp + 1 tbsp lime juice, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 large mango, peeled, seed removed, and roughly chopped
• 1/2 large jalapeño, seeds removed and diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 1 avocado, peeled and chopped
• corn tortillas

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400° F.
2. Marinate shrimp. In large mixing bowl combine shrimp, olive oil, 1 tsp lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Set aside in the fridge and let marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare salsa by mixing chopped mango, diced jalapeño, cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice in medium mixing bowl. 
4. Once the shrimp has marinaded, add to a large sauté pan on medium heat and cook for ~5 minutes or until the shrimp is fully warmed through. Stir occasionally. While shrimp is cooking, place corn tortillas on a large baking sheet. Spray 1 side with olive oil. Bake for 3 minutes. 
5. Once tortillas and the shrimp have both warmed, assemble your tacos. Layer the shrimp on the tortilla then top with mango salsa and avocado. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Mango Jalapeño Shrimp Tacos

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe mangoes for sweetness and fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you don’t like dealing with peeling and chopping a mango, look in the refrigerator area of the produce section of your grocery store for chopped mangoes. 
• Marinate the Shrimp: Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
• Grill or Sauté the Shrimp: If I’m cooking with fresh shrimp, I prefer to grill it. However, to save time, use pre-cooked shrimp and sauté it on the stove top.
• Mix it up: Don’t feel like tacos? The shrimp and mango Jalapeño salsa also tastes great over a bed of rice or greens!
• Add Creaminess: A drizzle of avocado crema or a dollop of sour cream can balance the heat from the jalapeños.
• Serve with Lime Wedges: Lime wedges on the side allow for an extra squeeze of freshness just before eating.
• Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your heat preference, or try different types of peppers for variety.