These Blackened Shrimp Tacos are a tasty treat! The shrimp are seasoned with bold spices and cooked until they’re perfectly crispy. Wrap them up in soft tortillas with fresh toppings!
I love adding crunchy cabbage and a squeeze of lime for extra zing. They disappear fast at my dinner table—who can resist spicy shrimp in a warm tortilla? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for these tacos as they provide a meaty texture. If shrimp aren’t available, try using chicken or firm tofu. Both will soak up the flavors beautifully.
Spice Blend: Smoked paprika gives a delicious smoky flavor. If you’re out, regular paprika works too, but for a deeper taste, add a touch more cayenne or chili powder.
Mango: Fresh mango adds sweetness and brightness. If it’s out of season, try pineapple or peaches for a similar tropical vibe. Canned options can work, but fresh is always best!
Romaine Lettuce: I love using romaine for the crunchy texture. However, you can substitute with other greens like iceberg or even cabbage for a different crunch.
How Do I Achieve that Perfect Blackened Effect on Shrimp?
Blackening shrimp is all about high heat and proper seasoning. This process gives the shrimp that beautiful charred look and rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high until it’s very hot before adding the shrimp. A cast iron skillet works best, but any non-stick pan will do.
- Make sure shrimp are coated well with oil and the spice blend to achieve the blackened look. You want an even layer for great flavor.
- Cook the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes on each side. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the heat up.
Following these tips will help you get that deliciously blackened shrimp and enhance the overall flavor of your tacos!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 cup diced fresh mango
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for garnish)
For the Taco Shells:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes to whip up these delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
Start by mixing together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This spice blend will give your shrimp that amazing blackened flavor!
2. Season the Shrimp:
Take your shrimp and toss them in the olive oil until they’re all coated. Then sprinkle the spice mix over the shrimp, making sure each piece is evenly covered. This will enhance the flavor and give them a lovely color while cooking.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Place the seasoned shrimp in the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a beautiful blackened appearance. This only takes a short time, so keep an eye on them!
4. Make the Mango Salsa:
While the shrimp are cooking, grab another mixing bowl and combine the diced mango, red onion, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Stir gently to mix everything together, and then set it aside. This salsa adds a fresh and tangy touch to your tacos!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Take a romaine lettuce leaf and fill it with a few pieces of the tasty blackened shrimp. Top it off with a generous scoop of the mango salsa—don’t be shy, you want it to be bursting with flavor!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like a bit of heat, add some fresh jalapeño slices on top. Now, dig in and enjoy your fresh and flavorful blackened shrimp tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. The best way is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water until thawed. Pat them dry to ensure a good sear!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon or omit it entirely. You can also add extra toppings like avocado or sour cream afterward to balance the spice!
Can I Make the Mango Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld. It’s best used within a day for optimal freshness.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp and mango salsa separate from the lettuce leaves. Place them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet and assemble fresh tacos!
