Lightened-Up Mango Salsa Shrimp

These Lightened-Up Mango Salsa Shrimp Lettuce Tacos bring together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Succulent shrimp spiced with a blend of chili, cumin, and smoked paprika provide a savory foundation, while the vibrant mango salsa adds a sweet and tangy contrast. Serving them in crisp butter lettuce cups instead of traditional tortillas creates a refreshing, low-carb alternative that's perfect for warm summer evenings.

Save to Pinterest

These lettuce tacos were inspired by California coastal cuisine, where fresh seafood and produce come together in light, flavorful combinations. The butter lettuce provides the perfect vehicle for the spiced shrimp and juicy mango salsa - crisp and refreshing with just enough structure to hold all the delicious fillings without weighing you down like traditional tortillas.

• For the Shrimp: 500 g (1 lb) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, juice of 1 lime
• For the Mango Salsa: 1 large ripe mango (diced), 1/2 medium red bell pepper (finely diced), 1/4 small red onion (finely diced), 1 small jalapeño (seeded and minced), 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped), juice of 1 lime, 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Lettuce Cups & Garnishes: 8 large butter lettuce leaves (or romaine hearts), 1 small avocado (diced), extra lime wedges for serving

Marinate the shrimp

In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.

Prepare the mango salsa

While shrimp marinates, prepare the mango salsa: In a bowl, combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix gently and set aside.

Cook the shrimp

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Assemble the lettuce tacos

Lay lettuce leaves on a platter. Divide shrimp evenly among the leaves, top with mango salsa, and sprinkle with diced avocado.

Serve

Serve immediately with extra lime wedges.

For the best flavor, let the mango salsa sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the shrimp. This allows the flavors to meld together. When selecting mangos, look for ones that yield slightly to pressure but aren't too soft. The skin should have a slight sweet aroma at the stem end when ripe. To prevent the lettuce cups from tearing, pat them dry before filling and handle gently.

This versatile recipe can easily be modified to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Swap the mango for pineapple for a different tropical twist. For a spicier version, leave some jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp marinade. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh, using the same marinade and cooking method. For those who aren't concerned about dairy, a dollop of Greek yogurt or light sour cream adds a cool, creamy element.

These lightened-up tacos make a perfect light lunch or dinner. Serve them with a side of cilantro-lime cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal. For a family-style presentation, arrange the lettuce cups, cooked shrimp, and mango salsa separately on a large platter so everyone can build their own tacos. These tacos pair beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Mexican beer with a lime wedge. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a splash of pineapple juice.

Save to Pinterest

These Mango Salsa Shrimp Lettuce Tacos capture the essence of fresh, vibrant eating without sacrificing flavor. The combination of spiced shrimp, sweet-tangy mango salsa, and buttery avocado creates a memorable dish that feels both indulgent and virtuous. They're perfect for those nights when you want something special that doesn't require hours in the kitchen or leave you feeling weighed down. Embrace this lighter way of enjoying tacos that celebrates fresh ingredients at their best.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque; avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

→ Can I substitute mango with other fruits?

Yes, pineapple is a great tropical substitute that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the salsa.

→ What lettuce types work best for wrapping?

Butter lettuce or romaine hearts are ideal as they provide sturdy, crisp cups for holding the fillings.

→ Is it possible to make the salsa spicier?

Adding more jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder can increase the salsa's heat level to suit your preference.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep shrimp and salsa in airtight containers in the refrigerator and consume within 1–2 days for best freshness.