Tropical Mojito Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco night with these vibrant Tropical Mojito Shrimp Tacos. Perfectly marinated shrimp infused with fresh mint and lime are nestled in crispy wonton cups. Each bite is bursting with flavor, complemented by a refreshing avocado mango salsa. These elegant taco cups are not just a feast for the eyes, but a delightful combination of sweetness and zest that your guests will rave about. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a fun family meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh mint leaves
1 cup (washed and whole)
rum
1/4 cup (for marinade and 2 tablespoons for salsa)
sugar
2 tablespoons
olive oil
1 tablespoon
lime
1 (skin on, cut into 1-inch dice)
kosher salt
to taste
large shrimp
1 lb (peeled and deveined)
square wonton wrappers
12
canola oil
3 tablespoons (for brushing wonton wrappers)
mango
1 cup (diced)
fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup (chopped)
lime juice
2 tablespoons
red onions
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
avocado
1 (cut into 1/2-inch dice)
freshly ground black pepper
to taste
fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup (roughly chopped for garnish)
queso fresco
2 ounces (crumbled)
lime
1 (cut into wedges for serving)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Mojito Shrimp Tacos?
They are a vibrant fusion appetizer featuring shrimp marinated in mint and rum, served in crispy wonton cups with an avocado mango salsa.
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
It is best to use one pound of large shrimp that have been peeled and deveined for easy preparation and eating.
Can I make these shrimp tacos without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the rum with extra lime juice or a splash of white grape juice to maintain the moisture and acidity without the alcohol.
How do I make the wonton cups?
Brush square wonton wrappers with canola oil and bake them in a muffin tin until they are golden brown and crispy.
What ingredients are in the avocado mango salsa?
The salsa consists of diced mango, avocado, chopped red onions, lime juice, fresh mint, and a small amount of rum.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for about 15 to 30 minutes to allow the mojito flavors to penetrate without the acid toughening the seafood.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of wonton wrappers?
While you can use tortillas, the wonton wrappers create a unique, elegant cup shape that is perfect for party appetizers.
What kind of rum is best for the mojito marinade?
A light or white rum is ideal as it provides the classic mojito flavor profile without darkening the appearance of the shrimp.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe focuses on sweet and zesty flavors. You can add minced jalapeño to the salsa if you prefer a spicy kick.
How do I keep the wonton cups from getting soggy?
Assemble the tacos just before serving to ensure the wonton cups remain crisp while holding the moist salsa and shrimp.
Can I prepare the salsa in advance?
You can prep the mango and onion ahead of time, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning.
What can I substitute for queso fresco?
Feta cheese is a great substitute because it has a similar salty and crumbly texture that complements the tropical flavors.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 12 wonton wrappers, making 12 individual taco cups, which serves approximately 4 to 6 people as an appetizer.
Can I use frozen mango for the salsa?
Fresh mango is recommended for the best texture, but frozen mango can be used if thawed completely and patted dry.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Standard wonton wrappers are made with wheat flour, so the recipe is not gluten-free unless you use a gluten-free wrapper alternative.
What is the best way to cook the shrimp?
Sauté the marinated shrimp in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.
Can I use precooked shrimp?
It is better to use raw shrimp so they can absorb the mojito marinade flavors while they cook.
What other fruits can I add to the salsa?
Pineapple or papaya would be excellent additions or substitutions for mango to keep with the tropical theme.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the shrimp and salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the wonton cups in a dry container at room temperature.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with firm tofu cubes or roasted cauliflower and use a vegan cheese crumble.
What does the mint add to the flavor?
The fresh mint provides a cooling, aromatic finish that mimics the refreshing nature of a mojito cocktail.
Can I bake the wonton cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
Why use red onions in the salsa?
Red onions provide a mild sharp contrast to the sweet mango and creamy avocado, along with a pop of color.
How do I choose a ripe avocado?
Choose an avocado that feels slightly soft to gentle pressure but is not mushy or indented.
Can I use flour tortillas instead?
You can use small flour tortillas, but they should be toasted or fried into a cup shape to achieve the same textural experience.
Is canola oil the only oil I can use for the wrappers?
No, any neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or grapeseed oil, will work for brushing the wrappers.
How should I serve these at a party?
Arrange the filled cups on a platter garnished with extra lime wedges and fresh mint sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
Can I grill the shrimp instead of sautéing?
Yes, grilling the marinated shrimp on skewers is a great way to add a smoky char that pairs well with the mango salsa.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Most kids enjoy the sweet fruit salsa and the crunchy wonton cups, though you may want to omit the rum if serving to children.
What makes this a 'mojito' shrimp recipe?
The combination of fresh mint, lime, sugar, and rum in the marinade mimics the core ingredients of a mojito cocktail.