This Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa is the perfect combination of fresh, juicy shrimp and a zesty, vibrant salsa. Ideal for summer evenings or as a flavorful appetizer, this dish is a delicious mix of savory and sweet that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled shrimp and mango salsa is an exciting and refreshing dish. The smoky flavor of the grilled shrimp pairs wonderfully with the sweet, tangy mango salsa. The combination of textures and flavors is not only mouthwatering but also light and healthy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The recipe is simple, quick, and bursting with fresh ingredients, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

500 g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
Juice of ½ lime
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp ground cumin
Salt & pepper, to taste
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes) or metal skewers

For the mango salsa:

1 ripe mango, diced
½ red bell pepper, diced
¼ red onion, finely chopped
1 small jalapeño, minced (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate while you prepare the mango salsa.
Make the mango salsa: In a separate bowl, combine mango, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside to chill.
Grill the shrimp: Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are slightly charred.
Serve: Plate the grilled shrimp with a generous spoonful of mango salsa on top or on the side. Serve with lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep & Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Serving Suggestions: Serve the grilled shrimp and salsa over coconut rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens for a more substantial meal.
Add Avocado: For an extra layer of creaminess, add diced avocado to the salsa.
No Grill? If you don’t have access to a grill, you can easily pan-sear the shrimp in a hot skillet with a little oil until they’re cooked through and slightly crispy.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover grilled shrimp and mango salsa separately in airtight containers. The shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, while the salsa can last for 1-2 days. The salsa may lose its freshness and crispness over time, so it’s best enjoyed on the same day.
Reheating: To reheat the shrimp, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes. You can also microwave the shrimp briefly, but be careful not to overcook them. The mango salsa should be served cold and does not need reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work just fine! Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating and grilling.

2. What can I substitute for cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

3. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. If they’re slightly charred, that’s even better for added flavor!

4. Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours before serving. Just keep it in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?

You can add more jalapeño to the salsa or sprinkle some chili flakes over the shrimp before grilling for a spicy kick.

6. What other fruits can I use in the salsa?

Try adding pineapple, papaya, or peaches for a unique twist on the salsa!

7. Can I use a different type of seafood?

Yes! You can replace shrimp with scallops or fish fillets like tilapia or cod for a different seafood experience.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients.

9. How long can I marinate the shrimp?

You can marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes. However, if you marinate them too long, the acid from the lime juice can start to break down the shrimp and affect the texture.

10. Can I grill the shrimp on a grill pan instead?

Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan works just as well to give the shrimp those lovely grill marks and smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that brings a refreshing tropical flavor to your meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe is sure to delight with its combination of smoky shrimp and sweet, zesty salsa. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!