If you are craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, this Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Combining succulent blackened shrimp with a sweet and tangy mango salsa, all wrapped in crisp, cool lettuce leaves, it’s a perfect light meal that doesn’t sacrifice any excitement. Whether you’re whipping up lunch for two or looking for a fun way to impress friends at your next casual gathering, these tacos deliver a mouthwatering experience that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of cooking this dish. Each item is simple but plays an essential role in elevating the overall taste, texture, and vivid appearance of these shrimp tacos. Let’s break it down so you know exactly why nothing should be skipped.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein that’s tender and perfect for quick baking.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Just enough to keep shrimp juicy and help seasoning stick.
- 2 teaspoons blackened seasoning: Adds a smoky, spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of mango salsa.
- One recipe of mango salsa: A vibrant, fresh topping bursting with tropical sweetness and zest.
- Cooking spray: Keeps your baking sheet nonstick without adding extra fat.
- 8 green leaf or butter lettuce leaves: Crisp, refreshing, and the perfect wrap to hold all those flavors together.
How to Make Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Spritz the foil lightly with cooking spray to ensure your shrimp don’t stick and stay beautifully succulent.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Place your peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. Drizzle the teaspoon of olive oil evenly over the shrimp and then sprinkle the blackened seasoning on both sides. This seasoning is what gives your shrimp that bold, flavorful punch that pairs so well with the mango salsa’s freshness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn a sweet pink and curl up slightly – just be careful not to overcook them, or they may lose their lovely texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Mango Salsa
While the shrimp are baking, this is your perfect window to whip up your mango salsa. The contrast of cool, juicy mango against spicy shrimp is what makes this Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe truly sing.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve Immediately
Once your shrimp have cooled slightly, spoon them into the crisp lettuce leaves, then top with a generous dollop of mango salsa. These tacos are best served fresh to enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few thinly sliced radishes for an extra crunch and burst of color. A wedge of lime on the side adds a lovely tang that brightens each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines well on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or a black bean and corn salad. These sides complement the freshness and keep the meal healthy and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp and mango salsa buffet-style alongside bowls of lettuce leaves. That way, guests can build their own Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe exactly how they like, making it interactive and fun at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the shrimp and mango salsa separate from the lettuce leaves in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and keeps the flavors distinct.
Freezing
The shrimp can be frozen after cooking, but the lettuce and mango salsa do not freeze well. For best taste and texture, freeze shrimp alone in a sealed bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating
To reheat shrimp, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat just until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make shrimp rubbery. Assemble the tacos fresh after reheating for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use different types of lettuce for these tacos?
Absolutely! Butter lettuce and green leaf lettuce are ideal for their flexibility and mild flavor, but you can also try romaine or iceberg for a bit more crunch.
What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?
No worries! You can mix your own with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. It’s easy and lets you control the spice level.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Using lettuce as the taco shell makes this recipe naturally gluten-free, perfect for those avoiding wheat or gluten-containing grains.
Can this be made vegan?
You can substitute shrimp for grilled or pan-fried tofu or tempeh and keep the mango salsa intact for a delightful vegan variation of this dish.
How spicy is this dish?
The blackened seasoning provides a moderate level of heat balanced by the sweet mango salsa. You can adjust the spice by reducing the seasoning or adding a mild salsa if preferred.
Final Thoughts
This Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe is a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that’s easy to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a dish to wow guests, give it a try and fall in love with the beautiful harmony of shrimp, mango, and crisp lettuce in every bite!
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Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Lettuce Wrap Shrimp Tacos are a fresh, low-carb alternative to traditional tacos featuring oven-baked blackened shrimp paired with vibrant homemade mango salsa, all wrapped in crisp green leaf or butter lettuce for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons blackened seasoning
- Cooking spray, as needed
Wraps and Toppings
- 8 green leaf or butter lettuce leaves
- One recipe of mango salsa (refer to separate mango salsa recipe)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spray the foil lightly with cooking spray to prevent shrimp from sticking.
- Season the Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle both sides evenly with the blackened seasoning.
- Bake the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the shrimp for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they turn pink and start to curl. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp cook quickly.
- Prepare Mango Salsa: While the shrimp bake, prepare the mango salsa according to your favorite recipe, ensuring it’s fresh and vibrant.
- Assemble the Tacos: Once the shrimp are cooked, spoon them into the lettuce leaves. Top each with a generous amount of mango salsa. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best results.
- Blackened seasoning can be adjusted to your spice preference or substituted with Cajun seasoning.
- Mango salsa adds a sweet and tangy flavor, but you can customize the topping with other salsa varieties or avocado.
- For easier handling, use butter lettuce which has sturdier leaves.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on shrimp size.
