Easy Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Discover a zesty and fresh Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa recipe that’s perfect for quick, flavorful summer meals. This vibrant dish combines tender, spicy shrimp with the bright sweetness of mango salsa, creating a delightful balance that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, it’s an ideal recipe for grilling season or any time you want to impress without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bold Flavor Explosion: The combination of chili, lime, and mango offers a mouthwatering mix of spicy, tangy, and sweet tastes.
• Healthy and Light: Packed with lean protein and fresh fruit, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Versatile: Great as a main course, appetizer, or salad topping, adapting effortlessly to your meal plans.
• Perfect for Grilling Season: Brings out the smoky char and fresh zest that only outdoor cooking can deliver.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa relies on simple, fresh ingredients that work in harmony to deliver a colorful, flavorful dish. Each element plays a key role in building the texture and the unique layers of flavor you’ll love.

• Shrimp: Use medium to large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined for tender and juicy bites.
• Chili Powder: Adds a smoky, mild heat that enhances the shrimp without overpowering the palate.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Provides bright acidity that balances the spice and sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Keeps the shrimp moist and helps the spices adhere during grilling.
• Ripe Mango: Adds vibrant sweetness and a smooth texture to the salsa.
• Red Bell Pepper: For crunch and color contrast that complements the mango’s softness.
• Red Onion: Imparts a sharp bite to cut through the sweetness and spice.
• Fresh Cilantro: Brings an herby freshness that brightens every forkful.
• Jalapeño: Optional for extra heat, finely diced to control spice intensity.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.

Variations for Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. The basics are flexible and accommodate a variety of swaps and upgrades.

• Swap Proteins: Use scallops, chicken breast pieces, or firm tofu for a different protein profile.
• Fruit Twist: Try pineapple salsa instead of mango for a tangier, tropical vibe.
• Heat Variations: Substitute chili powder with smoked paprika or cayenne for different types of spice.
• Herb Alternatives: Basil or mint can stand in for cilantro if you’re not a fan.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Confirm your chili powder and other spices are gluten-free for sensitive diets.
• Add Avocado: Creamy avocado chunks tossed into the salsa make it even more luxurious.

How to Make Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together to create a vibrant marinade that will infuse the shrimp with spicy, tangy flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let the shrimp absorb the flavors for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator, which ensures each bite bursts with zest.

Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa

Dice ripe mango, red bell pepper, and red onion into small, uniform pieces. Finely chop cilantro and jalapeño, then mix everything in a bowl with a pinch of salt and lime juice. This fresh salsa adds a bright contrast to the smoky shrimp.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high. If using wooden skewers for the shrimp, soak them in water for 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque with a slight char. Be careful not to overcook to maintain juiciness.

Step 6: Serve Together

Arrange grilled shrimp on a platter alongside or over a generous scoop of mango salsa. The combination of heat, acidity, and sweetness creates an irresistibly fresh summer dish.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa

• Don’t Over-Marinate: Shrimp marinate quickly, so keep it under 30 minutes to avoid mushy texture.
• Use Fresh Lime Juice: Bottled lime juice lacks the bright punch that fresh juice provides.
• Keep the Salsa Chill: Prepare the mango salsa just before serving or keep it refrigerated for best freshness.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures those perfect sear marks and prevents sticking.
• Check Shrimp Size: Even-sized shrimp cook more evenly on the grill.

How to Serve Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and thin lime wedges on the side for guests to customize flavor intensity. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a finishing richness as well.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with fluffy white rice, a crisp green salad, or warm corn tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal that complements the vibrant shrimp and salsa.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the grilled shrimp over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens for a colorful bowl meal, or stack the shrimp and salsa inside crunchy taco shells for a fun handheld option that’s perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover grilled shrimp and mango salsa in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The shrimp is best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal texture and flavor.

Freezing

While grilled shrimp can be frozen, the salsa’s fresh fruit and vegetables do not freeze well, so it’s best to prepare the salsa fresh when ready to serve. Freeze shrimp separately if needed.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with short bursts to prevent rubberiness. Serve immediately with freshly prepared or chilled salsa for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well—just be sure to thaw completely and pat dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture on the grill.

How spicy is Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa?

The heat level is mild to medium, controlled by the amount of chili powder and jalapeño you use, so adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this recipe on a stovetop instead of grill?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat to achieve similar char and flavor if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, shrimp can be marinated and grilled in advance, and salsa can be prepped ahead—but combine just before serving to keep textures fresh.

What can I substitute if I’m allergic to mango?

Pineapple or peaches make excellent alternatives, offering similar sweetness and juiciness that complement the spicy shrimp perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Easy, vibrant, and completely delicious, this Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp with Mango Salsa recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to brighten up their meal rotation. Its combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simple preparation makes it feel special yet accessible, perfect for sharing with friends and family on any occasion.

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