Taco night just got an upgrade with these Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa! Bursting with bold flavors and tropical vibes, this dish combines the spicy warmth of jerk-seasoned shrimp with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple salsa. Perfect for those who crave a quick, flavor-packed meal, these tacos are not only easy to make but also deliciously unique.

Ingredients with Quantities

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients, which yield four servings:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp – peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil – for coating the shrimp and helping the seasoning adhere
• 1 tbsp jerk seasoning – homemade or store-bought, to add that Caribbean spice
• Salt and pepper – to taste

For the Pineapple Salsa

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced – adds a juicy sweetness that balances the spice
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped – provides a bit of crunch and tang
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped – for freshness and a hint of citrus
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced – to add a mild kick; adjust based on spice preference
• Juice of 1 lime – brightens the salsa and ties the flavors together

For Assembling

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas – either type works; warm before serving
• Lime wedges – optional, for an extra citrusy finish

Directions and Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Shrimp

• In a medium mixing bowl, place the peeled and deveined shrimp.
• Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp, then add jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spice mixture. Set aside briefly to allow the flavors to infuse.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Place the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet.
• Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness.
• Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Pineapple Salsa

• In a separate bowl, combine the diced pineapple, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, and lime juice.
• Stir until the ingredients are well mixed, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Taste and adjust with extra lime juice or jalapeño for more acidity or heat, as preferred.

4. Assemble the Tacos

• Warm the tortillas either in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
• Place a few shrimp in each tortilla, and top with a generous spoonful of pineapple salsa.
• Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the tacos immediately while warm.
• Add lime wedges on the side for squeezing, if you’d like an extra burst of freshness.

FAQs

Q: What can I use if I don’t have jerk seasoning?
A: You can make a quick jerk seasoning by combining ingredients like ground allspice, thyme, cinnamon, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and a bit of brown sugar. This DIY mix brings out that classic jerk flavor.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Fresh or thawed shrimp will cook more evenly and absorb the seasoning better.

Q: Are there other fruits I can use in the salsa?
A: Absolutely! Mango is a popular alternative that pairs wonderfully with shrimp. For a twist, try a mix of pineapple and mango or even papaya for a tropical vibe.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the pineapple salsa and marinate the shrimp in advance. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh to preserve their tenderness and flavor.

Q: What can I serve alongside these tacos?
A: A fresh green salad, coconut rice, or black beans make excellent side dishes. Or try some grilled corn for a complete meal!

Conclusion

With these Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa, you’re set to enjoy a tropical meal in minutes. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering, this dish brings big flavors and is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the balance of spicy shrimp with refreshing pineapple salsa for an unforgettable taste experience!