Name: Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined); 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 2 Tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup shredded green cabbage; ½ cup shredded purple cabbage; 1 ripe mango (diced); ⅓ cup red onion (finely chopped); ⅓ cup fresh cilantro (chopped); Juice from 1 lime (about 2 tbsp); 1 Tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; ½ Tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess); ½ Tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (more to taste); ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 Tablespoon water; 8 small soft corn or flour tortillas; Extra lime wedges; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you are craving a vibrant and fresh meal that bursts with flavor, this Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe is your new go-to. Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp paired with a crisp, sweet mango cabbage slaw and a zesty, creamy drizzle make every bite a delightful celebration of textures and tastes. It’s a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also wonderfully satisfying, perfect for a casual dinner or an impressive weekend treat with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various ingredients on a white marbled surface, arranged neatly. At the top left, there is a bowl filled with colorful mango cabbage slaw made of purple and white cabbage and bright yellow mango pieces mixed with green herbs. To the right, there is a bowl of spicy crema, smooth and creamy light orange in color. Below these, a bowl with fresh green cilantro leaves and another bowl holding lime wedges are placed side by side. At the center right, a larger bowl holds peeled, raw shrimp in a light beige tone. Below, a white plate holds a stack of soft tortillas with light brown spots. Around these main bowls and plate, there are small bowls and dishes with powdered spices in red, golden, and brown shades labeled chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, plus small bowls of salt and black pepper. Additionally, there is a small dish with minced garlic and two small containers with olive oil and lime juice. Everything is clearly labeled and set on the clean white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each play a special role in balancing the dish’s vibrant flavor profile and colorful presentation.

Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The star protein that cooks quickly and soaks up all the spices beautifully.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons plus 1 for slaw): Helps in marinating shrimp and adds smoothness to the slaw.
Lime juice (about 3 tablespoons total): Adds tanginess to shrimp, slaw, and crema for brightness and freshness.
Garlic (2 cloves minced plus ¼ teaspoon powder): Brings a savory depth and a touch of warmth.
Spices (2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp onion powder, optional ¼ tsp cayenne, salt, and pepper): Infuse the shrimp with a smoky, mildly spicy flavor.
Green and purple cabbage (½ cup each shredded): Provide crunch, color contrast, and a refreshing bite in the slaw.
Ripe mango (1 diced): Delivers sweetness and juiciness that perfectly complements the spice and tang.
Red onion (⅓ cup finely chopped): Adds sharpness and texture to the slaw.
Fresh cilantro (⅓ cup chopped plus extra for garnish): Brings herbal brightness and a hint of citrusy aroma.
Greek yogurt or sour cream (¼ cup): Forms the creamy base of the spicy lime crema.
Mayonnaise (½ tablespoon, optional): Adds extra creaminess to the crema.
Hot sauce (1 teaspoon or to taste): Introduces a subtle kick to balance the sweetness of the mango.
Soft corn or flour tortillas (8 small): The essential vehicle for holding all the delicious components together.
Extra lime wedges: For added zing when serving.

How to Make Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry and tossing them in a lively marinade made from olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and a seasoned blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This step is magic because the shrimp soak up those flavors, making every bite incredibly tasty. Just let them sit for about 15-20 minutes so the spices can work their charm without overpowering the delicate shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Cabbage Slaw

While the shrimp is absorbing those spices, mix up your mango cabbage slaw. Combine shredded green and purple cabbage with juicy diced mango, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, then sprinkle a bit of salt and toss everything together. This slaw brings a perfect crunchy, sweet, and tangy contrast that will awaken your taste buds.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Lime Crema

In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt or sour cream with a dash of mayonnaise if you want it extra creamy. Add lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt to taste. This crema adds a cooling yet zesty layer that ties the tacos together, balancing heat and sweetness in a luscious drizzle.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat, then cook the marinated shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Quick and easy, this step locks in all those wonderful flavors while keeping the shrimp tender and juicy.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas briefly to make them pliable, then layer on the mango cabbage slaw, topped with the cooked shrimp. Finish with a generous drizzle of the spicy lime crema and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an added pop of citrus that’s pure perfection.

How to Serve Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe

A white bowl filled with large pieces of cooked shrimp in a dark brown sauce, the shrimp are plump with a glossy texture and the sauce has a rich, slightly oily surface filling the bottom of the bowl. To the right, there is a small white bowl with green lime wedges, showing bright fresh colors, and another white bowl filled with green cilantro leaves. On the bottom left, a stack of light-colored tortillas rests on a white plate. The whole scene is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For garnishes, keep it simple yet vibrant with extra fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. A little squeeze of fresh lime right before eating brightens every bite. If you like a bit more heat, freshly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes add a fun kick without stealing the show from the star ingredients.

Side Dishes

Serve these shrimp tacos alongside a light and refreshing side like Mexican street corn salad, black bean and corn salsa, or a cooling cucumber and avocado salad. These sides complement the bold flavors and bring even more texture and variety to your meal without overwhelming the delicate balance of the tacos.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider offering the components buffet-style: warm tortillas, shrimp, slaw, and crema separated so everyone can customize their own. Another fun presentation is to use mini taco holders for an elegant look or serve the tacos on a colorful platter garnished with lime wedges and cilantro for a festive feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover shrimp, slaw, and crema separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This keeps each element fresh, preventing sogginess and preserving the vibrant flavors for quick reassembly later.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze the entire assembled tacos, as the slaw and crema won’t hold up well. However, you can freeze the cooked shrimp on their own. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw thoroughly before reheating and serving.

Reheating

Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through to avoid rubbery texture. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel. Always keep the slaw and crema refrigerated and add them fresh when you’re ready to eat so they maintain their crispness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the marinade stick and results in better flavor and texture when cooked.

What can I substitute for mango if it’s not in season?

If mango isn’t available, try using pineapple chunks or ripe peach slices. Both provide a similar sweet, juicy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp and crunchy slaw.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and toss again before serving to refresh the crunch and redistribute any dressing that might have settled.

How spicy is this Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe?

The spice level is moderate, thanks to the chili powder and optional cayenne in the shrimp marinade and the hot sauce in the crema. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing these ingredients to suit your taste.

What type of tortillas work best for these shrimp tacos?

Both soft corn and flour tortillas work well. Corn tortillas give a traditional texture and slightly smoky flavor, while flour tortillas offer a softer, pliable wrap. Pick whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Tacos with Mango Cabbage Slaw Recipe is a vibrant, delicious meal that comes together quickly and impresses every single time. Whether you’re cooking for family weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, these tacos offer a wonderful combination of bright, fresh flavors and textures that make each bite something special. Give it a try, and I promise this recipe will become one of your favorites too!