Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Blackened shrimp tacos with a fresh and vibrant mango salsa are the perfect summer meal. The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors creates a delightful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Introduction

Shrimp tacos are a beloved Mexican-inspired dish that has become a staple in many households and restaurants around the world. The versatility of shrimp, along with its delicate and succulent texture, makes it an ideal protein to pair with the bold and flavorful components of a taco. In this recipe, we’ll be exploring the delicious synergy of blackened shrimp and a refreshing mango salsa, all nestled in warm tortillas.

The term “blackened” refers to a cooking technique that involves searing the shrimp in a hot pan with a blend of spices, creating a well-charred and intensely flavored exterior. The mango salsa, on the other hand, brings a burst of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the smoky and slightly spicy shrimp.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a casual dinner party, or simply craving a delightful and satisfying meal, these blackened shrimp tacos with mango salsa are sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients Needed

To create these scrumptious blackened shrimp tacos with mango salsa, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Blackened Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Mango Salsa:

• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Serving:

• 12-16 small corn or flour tortillas
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Steps to Make Blackened Shrimp

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the spices adhere to the shrimp.
2. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the blackening spice blend.
3. Sprinkle the spice blend over the shrimp and toss to coat them evenly.

Cook the Shrimp:

1. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it’s shimmering.
2. Working in batches if necessary, add the seasoned shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have a charred, blackened appearance.
3. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and cover to keep them warm while you prepare the mango salsa.

Steps to Make Mango Salsa

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Peel and dice the mangoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Finely chop the red onion.
3. Seed and finely chop the jalapeño.
4. Juice the lime.
5. Chop the fresh cilantro.

Assemble the Salsa:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, chopped red onion, chopped jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
2. Season the salsa with salt and stir to combine.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice for acidity or more cilantro for freshness.
4. Cover the salsa and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Assembly of Tacos

1. Warm the tortillas according to the package instructions, either in a dry skillet, on a griddle, or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for a few minutes.
2. Place a few pieces of the blackened shrimp in the center of each warm tortilla.
3. Top the shrimp with a generous spoonful of the mango salsa.
4. Serve the tacos immediately, with lime wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

These blackened shrimp tacos with mango salsa are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with the following accompaniments:

• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Shredded cabbage or lettuce
• Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• Sour cream or crema
• Hot sauce or salsa verde

For a complete meal, you can serve the tacos with:

• Cilantro-lime rice
• Roasted or grilled vegetables
• Refried beans or black beans
• A refreshing margarita or Mexican beer

Conclusion

Blackened shrimp tacos with mango salsa are a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will transport your taste buds to the sunny beaches of Mexico. The combination of the spicy, charred shrimp and the sweet, tangy mango salsa creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to delight your senses. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, these tacos are the perfect choice. Enjoy the fresh, bold, and versatile flavors of this dish, and let it become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.