Succulent Shrimp Tapas with Mango Shooters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with juicy shrimp seasoned to perfection and paired with a smooth, tangy mango shooter. The combination of the shrimp’s delicate flavor and the fresh mango provides a tropical twist that’s refreshing and unique. The shooters not only add a vibrant touch to the dish but also complement the shrimp perfectly, enhancing the overall flavor experience. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and absolutely delicious—ideal for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the shrimp tapas:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for serving)

For the mango shooters:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped

• 1/2 cup coconut milk (or another dairy/non-dairy milk)

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice

• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

For serving:

• Small shot glasses or tapas plates

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

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

• Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

• Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

• Remove from the heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

2. Make the mango shooters:

• In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped mangoes, coconut milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more coconut milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

• Taste the mango mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed. For a little extra zing, you can add a dash more lime juice.

3. Assemble the dish:

• Pour the mango mixture into small shot glasses, filling them about halfway or more, depending on the size of your glasses.

• Arrange the cooked shrimp on small tapas plates or serve them alongside the mango shooters on a large platter.

4. Serve and garnish:

• Garnish the mango shooters with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing hint of mint.

• Serve the shrimp tapas with the mango shooters immediately while the shrimp are still warm and the shooters are chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4-6 servings (depending on the size of your shrimp and shooters)

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: You can infuse the mango shooters with other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an interesting flavor twist.

• Spicy version: For extra heat, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the mango shooter mixture before blending or sprinkle chili powder on the shrimp.

• Grilled shrimp: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing them for an added depth of flavor.

• Different fruits: Experiment with other tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya for the mango shooter, which will still complement the shrimp beautifully.

Storage/Reheating

The shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming tough. The mango shooter mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and served chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I make the mango shooters ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mango shooters ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give them a quick stir before serving.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the shrimp with plant-based protein options like marinated tofu or tempeh for a vegan version. For the shooter, ensure the coconut milk is non-dairy, and the sweetener used is vegan (like maple syrup).

4. Can I add more heat to the shrimp?

Yes! Add more cayenne pepper, or even some finely chopped fresh chili peppers, to the shrimp seasoning for a spicier kick. You can also incorporate hot sauce or sriracha into the mango shooter mixture for an extra layer of heat.

5. Can I use a different fruit for the shooters?

Yes, you can swap mango for other tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, or peaches. Adjust the sweetness as needed depending on the fruit you use.

6. How do I ensure the shrimp is cooked perfectly?

Be sure to cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking them will result in rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them as they cook quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side depending on their size.

7. Can I make the shooters thicker?

If you prefer a thicker shooter, you can add a little more mango or reduce the coconut milk slightly. Alternatively, you can blend in some frozen mango cubes to thicken the texture.

8. How do I serve the shrimp with the shooters?

You can either serve the shrimp on the side of the shooters, letting your guests dip the shrimp into the mango shooter, or you can skewer the shrimp and serve them alongside the shooters for a more interactive and fun presentation.

9. Can I serve this as a main course?

Yes! You can make the shrimp bites larger and pair them with a side dish like a fresh salad or rice to turn it into a complete meal.

10. How do I make the dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so there’s no need for substitutions if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just be sure to check the ingredients of any packaged items (like soy sauce) to ensure they are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Succulent Shrimp Tapas with Mango Shooters are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with juicy shrimp and a refreshing mango shooter that adds a delightful tropical flair to your meal. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to sophisticated gatherings. The balance of flavors and textures, along with the easy-to-make presentation, makes this a go-to recipe for anyone looking to impress their guests with a delicious and creative appetizer. Enjoy these shrimp tapas with mango shooters and savor every bite!