Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a vibrant and delicious choice for any occasion. These tacos combine juicy shrimp with a refreshing mango slaw and creamy avocado crema, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a casual family dinner, or preparing a quick weeknight meal, these tacos stand out with their bold spices and fresh ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of these spicy shrimp tacos is packed with zesty spices and the sweetness of mango, making them irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with shrimp, fresh veggies, and wholesome toppings like avocado crema, these tacos are as nutritious as they are delicious.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making this recipe versatile for everyone.
- Great for Gatherings: Serve these tacos at gatherings or parties for a fun and interactive dining experience that guests will love.

Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or large pan
- Mixing bowls
- Blender or food processor
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or large pan: A good skillet ensures even cooking for the shrimp, giving them that perfect sear.
- Blender or food processor: This tool is crucial for making the avocado crema smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping fruits and veggies safely and efficiently for your slaw.
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 under For the Shrimp. Add the shrimp to this mix. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Allow it to marinate for 5–10 minutes while prepping the other parts.
Step 2: Prepare the Mango Slaw
In another bowl, combine the diced mango, shredded red cabbage, lime juice (or vinegar), salt, and sugar. Toss everything together until well mixed. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly. Add in chopped cilantro and green onions before setting aside.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Crema
In a blender or food processor, add all ingredients listed under For the Avocado Crema. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet or large pan over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter once hot. Cook the marinated shrimp for about 3–4 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are opaque and firm.
Step 5: Warm Tortillas
Char small corn tortillas over an open flame for about 20 seconds per side. Alternatively, wrap them in damp paper towels in an aluminum foil packet and warm in a low oven at 250°F until ready to serve.
Step 6: Assemble Tacos
Spread some avocado crema on each warm tortilla. Stack with cooked shrimp followed by mango slaw. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over top as needed.
Enjoy your Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema!
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Serving Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema is a delightful experience that combines flavor and freshness. Here are some creative ways to enhance your taco night.
Fresh Lime Wedges
- Squeeze fresh lime over the tacos just before eating for an extra zing of citrus that complements the shrimp and slaw.
Crisp Lettuce Cups
- Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative to tortillas, perfect for those looking for a lighter option.
Extra Avocado Crema
- Serve additional avocado crema on the side for dipping or drizzling, allowing guests to customize their tacos.
Pickled Red Onions
- Add pickled red onions for a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of mango and richness of shrimp.
Spicy Salsa
- Offer a spicy salsa or pico de gallo on the side to add even more flavor and texture to your meal.
Cilantro Garnish
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top of each taco enhances presentation while adding a burst of herbal freshness.
How to Perfect Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
To make your Spicy Shrimp Tacos truly unforgettable, here are some tips for perfection.
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Marinate the shrimp longer: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for 15-20 minutes deepens the flavor profile, making every bite more delicious.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mango and ripe avocados elevate the taste. Always choose high-quality produce for the best results.
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Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of chipotle powder according to your heat preference, ensuring everyone enjoys their tacos.
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Heat tortillas properly: Warm tortillas effectively on an open flame or in a pan to enhance their flavor and make them more pliable.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary. This ensures they cook evenly and achieve that perfect texture without steaming.
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Let slaw rest: Allowing the mango slaw to sit for a few minutes helps soften the cabbage, enhancing its flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Pairing sides with your Spicy Shrimp Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
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Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime—perfectly complements tacos.
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Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro adds protein and color to your meal.
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Guacamole: Creamy guacamole served with tortilla chips provides a tasty dip that pairs well with shrimp flavors.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits balances out the spices from the tacos beautifully.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime juice offers a flavorful base that works well alongside tacos.
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Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make a fun appetizer or side dish before enjoying your tacos.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add a smoky flavor that complements shrimp nicely.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with spices provide a hearty side option that fills out your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.
- Over-marinating the shrimp: Marinating shrimp for too long can make them mushy. Aim for 5-10 minutes for the best texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season your shrimp can lead to bland tacos. Use the spice mix to enhance the flavor significantly.
- Neglecting the slaw: If you don’t let the mango slaw rest, it won’t soften properly. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes for optimal taste and texture.
- Underheating tortillas: Cold tortillas can ruin your dish. Warm them up properly to maintain their flavor and texture.
- Not balancing flavors: Skipping lime or salt adjustments may leave your tacos flat. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly for a well-rounded dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
- They will last in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
- Wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the tacos for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw them completely before marinating.
What can I substitute for avocado crema?
You can use sour cream or guacamole as an alternative if needed.
How spicy are these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema?
The spice level depends on how much chipotle powder you use. Adjust it according to your preference!
Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the mango slaw a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spice level. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a burst of flavors at your next meal!
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Slaw and Avocado Crema are a vibrant culinary delight that will elevate any meal. These tacos feature succulent shrimp marinated in zesty spices, complemented by a refreshing mango slaw and rich avocado crema. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or quick weeknight meals, this recipe offers a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Each bite is an explosion of sweetness from the mango and heat from the shrimp, making these tacos a must-try.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- small corn tortilla
- sliced lime as needed
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp with spices for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Prepare the mango slaw by combining diced mango, shredded cabbage, lime juice, salt, and sugar; let it rest.
- Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic, lime juice, and jalapeño for the crema until smooth.
- Cook marinated shrimp in a hot skillet for about 3 to 4 minutes until opaque.
- Warm corn tortillas over an open flame or in the oven.
- Assemble tacos by spreading avocado crema on tortillas, adding shrimp and mango slaw.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
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