
Shrimp tacos with mango salsa are the quickest way I know to bring fresh tropical flavors to your dinner table. Juicy shrimp are seasoned and grilled until just pink then tucked into warm tortillas with sweet mango and creamy avocado salsa. This recipe is always a hit on busy weeknights when I crave something both easy and vibrant.
I first pulled this together on a hot July evening to use up extra mangoes. Now every summer my family begs for Shrimp Taco Night and it has become our go-to summer dinner tradition.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: choosing peeled and deveined shrimp saves time and ensures even cooking
- Olive oil: coats the shrimp to help the spices stick and adds a rich mouthfeel
- Chili powder and ground cumin: each bring smoky warmth to the shrimp
- Smoked paprika: imparts a subtle hint of smokiness for depth
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: help all the flavors pop
- Lime juice: brightens and tenderizes the shrimp
- Ripe mango: choose one that gives slightly to pressure for sweetness
- Ripe avocado: creamy texture balances the citrus and heat select avocados just soft but not mushy
- Red onion: adds sharpness and color finely chop for best distribution
- Jalapeño: for heat remove seeds for mild or leave some in for extra kick
- Fresh cilantro: brings color and an herby punch always use the leaves for best flavor
- Extra lime juice: ties together the salsa and keeps avocado from browning
- Small corn or flour tortillas: warmed until pliable check your tortillas for freshness so they do not break
- Lime wedges and more cilantro for garnish: give extra zest and green
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Place peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl with olive oil chili powder cumin smoked paprika salt pepper and fresh lime juice. Toss thoroughly so the shrimp are evenly coated. Let rest for 10 minutes to absorb flavors
- Prepare the Mango Avocado Salsa:
- In a clean bowl gently mix diced mango diced avocado finely chopped red onion minced jalapeño chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with a small pinch of salt and black pepper. Use a spoon to gently fold so avocado stays intact
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Lay out the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Watch for the shrimp to turn pink with a slight curl indicating they are perfectly just cooked
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Lay tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until soft and warm. You can also microwave covered with a damp paper towel for 20 seconds if in a hurry
- Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange warm tortillas on a platter. Divide grilled shrimp between the tortillas then spoon over generous helpings of mango avocado salsa. Top with extra cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges

I always look forward to adding ripe mango because it reminds me of our family’s Caribbean vacations. The first time my kids tasted this salsa they begged for bite after bite until the bowl was empty.
Storage Tips
Leftover shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and it is best eaten within two days. The mango avocado salsa is freshest the same day but if you want to prep ahead squeeze extra lime juice over it and keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator. I would not recommend freezing this dish as the salsa will lose its texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have mango pineapple works beautifully in the salsa for an equally bright result. Swap red onion for green onion if you want a milder taste. For tortillas you can use soft corn or flour depending on your preference or gluten free options.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these shrimp tacos with a simple slaw or quick pickled onions for added crunch. I love pairing them with crispy tortilla chips and a fresh guacamole on the side. Do not forget a cold drink like iced agua fresca or a zesty sparkling lemonade.

Cultural and Historical Context
Shrimp tacos are a classic favorite in coastal Mexican cuisine especially in the Baja and Yucatán regions where fresh seafood abounds. Mango salsa is a more modern tropical addition that highlights cross-cultural fusion and the natural pairing of sweet fruit with seafood.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for these tacos?
Yes, simply thaw the shrimp fully, pat them dry, and proceed with seasoning and grilling as directed.
- → What tortillas work best: corn or flour?
Both corn and flour tortillas are suitable. Choose corn for a classic touch, or flour for a softer texture.
- → How spicy is the mango salsa?
The salsa has a mild heat. For more spice, leave some jalapeño seeds in when preparing it.
- → Can I substitute mango in the salsa?
Yes, pineapple or even peach can be used for a different fruity twist while keeping the salsa refreshing.
- → What can I add for extra crunch?
Add shredded cabbage or lettuce on top of the tacos for extra crunch and freshness.
- → Is this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally dairy-free, making these tacos dairy-free friendly.