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Spicy Cajun Shrimp Tacos Recipe with Easy Creamy Mango Slaw Perfect for Summer

spicy cajun shrimp tacos - featured image

A quick and flavorful recipe featuring spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp paired with a creamy, sweet mango slaw, perfect for summer meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (Tony Chachere’s preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Juice of half a lime
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and julienned or thinly sliced
  • 2 cups (150g) shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup (50g) shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise (vegan mayo optional)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 small soft corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • Optional: sliced avocado or pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss the peeled shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lime juice. Mix well to coat evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and julienned mango.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, lime juice, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the mango and cabbage mixture, tossing gently to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or grill pan for about 30 seconds per side. Keep warm in a kitchen towel.
  7. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp on tortillas, topping with creamy mango slaw, and garnishing with cilantro and optional avocado or jalapeños.
  8. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp to ensure even cooking. Let the slaw rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to meld flavors but avoid making it too far ahead to prevent sogginess. Warm tortillas properly on a dry skillet or grill pan and keep wrapped in a towel to stay soft. Adjust cayenne pepper and jalapeños to control spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy shrimp tacos, Cajun shrimp, mango slaw, summer tacos, easy shrimp recipe, creamy slaw, quick dinner, seafood tacos