Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

When I think of summer, one dish always comes to mind: Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos with a vibrant mango salsa. One sunny afternoon, I decided to have friends over for a casual get-together, and I wanted to serve something light and refreshing. That’s when I stumbled upon this recipe. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty lime, and the sweetness of fresh mango creates a fiesta in every bite! As we gathered around the table, laughter filled the air, and the tacos became the star of the show. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and I knew I had struck culinary gold with these Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos. They’re perfect for sunny days, and the best part? You can whip them up in no time, making them ideal for any occasion.

Key Ingredients for Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

When it comes to creating the perfect Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos, the ingredients are absolutely key. Each component brings its own unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Let’s dive into the essentials that make this recipe a standout.

• Mango – 1 ½ cups diced: The mango adds a sweet and juicy element that complements the spiciness of the shrimp beautifully.
• Shallot – 1 diced: A milder onion flavor that adds depth without overwhelming the dish.
• Jalapeno Pepper – 1 diced: For those who love a bit of heat, the jalapeno provides the perfect kick.
• Cilantro – ½ cup chopped: This herb adds a burst of freshness and vibrancy to the tacos.
• Lime Juice – 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh: The acidity of lime juice brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness of the mango.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• Shrimp – 1 pound peeled and deveined: The star of the show! Tender shrimp are quick to cook and full of flavor.
• Tajin Seasoning – 2 to 3 teaspoons: This chili lime seasoning gives the shrimp its signature taste.
• Olive Oil – 1 to 2 tablespoons: Used for cooking the shrimp, it adds richness to the flavor.
• Corn Tortillas – 8 to 12 small: These serve as the vehicle for holding all the delicious ingredients together.
• Cotija Cheese – ⅓ cup crumbled: Adds a salty and creamy texture that ties everything together.

Making This Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

Let’s get cooking! Making Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos is not only quick but also enjoyable. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple steps will have you whipping these up effortlessly. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by making your salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, shallot, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed. This can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
2. Next, prepare the shrimp. Pat the shrimp completely dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly. Season them all over with the tajin seasoning – feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to get a nice sear.
4. Cook the shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes on one side until they turn opaque. Watch closely to avoid overcooking; they cook quickly!
5. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked. Remove the skillet from the heat as soon as they’re done to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
6. Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Grab your corn tortillas and place several shrimp in the center of each one.
7. Top the shrimp generously with the prepared mango salsa and sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese on top.
8. Serve immediately while everything is still warm and enjoy the fantastic flavors.
9. These tacos are perfect to enjoy with friends, paired with a fresh side salad or chips!

Recipe Tips about Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

To make your experience with Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos even better, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:

• Storage: Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just keep the components separate to maintain texture.
• Freezing: While the cooked shrimp can be frozen, the assembled tacos are best enjoyed fresh. If freezing shrimp, store them in a freezer-safe bag and use within three months.
• Pairing: These tacos pair wonderfully with a light salad or some grilled corn. Consider serving with a fresh drink to complement the flavors.
• Variations: Swap out shrimp for grilled fish or even a vegetarian option like grilled veggies for a delightful twist.
• Serving Style: Serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zest, and consider adding some sliced avocado for creaminess.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the salsa and shrimp a day ahead of time for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat!

What to Pair With Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

When it comes to serving Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic pairings:

• Fresh Greens: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully. Try arugula or mixed greens for a refreshing crunch.
• Grilled Vegetables: Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can be grilled alongside the shrimp for a colorful and healthy side.
• Chips and Salsa: Serve tortilla chips with additional salsa or guacamole for a delightful appetizer.
• Rice or Quinoa: A side of cilantro lime rice or fluffy quinoa can round out your meal and soak up extra flavors.
• Seasonal Fruits: Fresh fruit like watermelon or a citrus salad can add a sweet and refreshing contrast to the meal.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual gatherings, summer barbecues, or taco nights with family, these tacos will impress every time!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos truly shine with their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making them a perfect choice for any summer gathering. They are easy to prepare and sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe tonight; your taste buds will thank you for it!

Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

The ultimate summer dish, Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos offer a burst of flavor with fresh shrimp, vibrant mango salsa, and zesty lime. Perfect for any occasion, these easy tacos will have your taste buds dancing and keep you coming back for more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups Mango diced
• 1 Shallot diced
• 1 Jalapeno Pepper diced
• 0.5 cups Cilantro chopped
• 2 to 3 tablespoons Lime Juice fresh
• Kosher Salt and Pepper
• 1 pound Shrimp peeled and deveined, thawed if frozen
• 2 to 3 teaspoons Tajin Seasoning (chili lime seasoning)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 8 to 12 small Corn Tortillas
• 0.33 cups Cotija Cheese crumbled

Equipment

• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Make the salsa first. Combine the mango, shallot, jalapeno pepper, cilantro, lime juice and a big pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Toss well. You can make this a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
2. Pat the shrimp completely dry with a paper towel. Season all over with the tajin - use more or less if desired.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook until opaque, about 1 to 2 minutes, then flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove from the heat so the shrimp doesn’t overcook.
4. Assemble the tacos! Add the shrimp in the center of the tortillas, top with the mango salsa and cotija cheese. Serve!

Notes

• Storage: Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just keep the components separate to maintain texture.
• Freezing: While the cooked shrimp can be frozen, the assembled tacos are best enjoyed fresh. If freezing shrimp, store them in a freezer-safe bag and use within three months.
• Pairing: These tacos pair wonderfully with a light salad or some grilled corn. Consider serving with a fresh drink to complement the flavors.
• Variations: Swap out shrimp for grilled fish or even a vegetarian option like grilled veggies for a delightful twist.
• Serving Style: Serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zest, and consider adding some sliced avocado for creaminess.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the salsa and shrimp a day ahead of time for quick assembly when you're ready to eat!

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!