If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet, then this Chilli Lime Prawns with Tangy Mango Salsa Recipe is going to be your new go-to. The zingy lime and chili-infused prawns paired with a refreshing mango salsa make every bite feel like a mini tropical getaway. Whether you’re serving it up for a laid-back dinner or impressing friends at a weekend cookout, this recipe is a sensational mix of boldness and freshness that’s sure to brighten your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chilli Lime Prawns with Tangy Mango Salsa Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to enhance the flavor, texture, and color. You don’t need a long shopping list, just fresh and vibrant components that come together beautifully.
- 1 pound large prawns or shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein that soaks up all the zesty marinade perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the prawns cook up juicy and golden, adding a subtle fruity note.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Brings brightness and acidity, balancing the heat and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Delivers aromatic citrus oils that intensify lime flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds depth and a little punch of savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a warm, smoky heat that’s never overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Use this if you love extra kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the prawns well.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle sharpness and spice.
- 1 ripe mango (diced): Sweet, juicy, and perfectly ripe for the freshest salsa.
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped): Brings crunch and a sharp bite to the salsa.
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced): Adds vibrant color and a mellow sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon jalapeño (minced, optional): For a subtle spicy punch in the salsa.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped): Infuses herbal freshness and an unmistakable tropical vibe.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (for salsa): Keeps the salsa lively and perfectly tangy.
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup: Just a touch of sweetness to meld all the flavors harmoniously.
- Pinch of salt (for salsa): Balances the sweetness and enhances taste.
How to Make Chilli Lime Prawns with Tangy Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tangy Mango Salsa
The salsa is where freshness meets vibrance, so it’s important to mix all your mango, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño, honey, and salt gently in a medium bowl. Toss everything together and let the salsa sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, resulting in a salsa bursting with sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy notes that perfectly complement the prawns.
Step 2: Marinate the Prawns
Now it’s time to give the prawns their unforgettable flavor. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Toss the prawns in this zesty marinade ensuring each piece is well coated. Letting them soak up the flavors for 15 to 20 minutes is key to infusing that irresistible chilli lime taste.
Step 3: Cook the Prawns
Heat your skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat until it’s sizzling hot. Lay the prawns in a single layer—you want them to get a nice char for texture and flavor. Cook the prawns for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remember, overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them to maintain that tender, juicy bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Arrange the hot prawns on a bed of your chilled mango salsa or serve the salsa on the side as a vibrant topping. For that extra touch, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or squeeze some lime wedges over your dish just before serving. This final step amps up the freshness and presentation, making every bite a celebration of flavors.
How to Serve Chilli Lime Prawns with Tangy Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes go a long way here—fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges enhance the colors and amplify the citrusy freshness of this dish. If you want added creaminess, a dollop of avocado crema or Greek yogurt works beautifully without overpowering the bright flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with coconut rice for a tropical twist or alongside a light green salad for balance. Crispy tortilla chips or warm corn tortillas also make excellent companions if you’re thinking of turning this into tacos or a playful appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, stack the prawns and mango salsa on small tostadas—everyone loves a handheld bite full of flavor. Alternatively, serve the prawns over grilled pineapple rings for a stunning presentation that complements the sweet and spicy theme perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the prawns and mango salsa separately in airtight containers. This helps maintain the texture and freshness of both components longer. Refrigerate for up to two days for the best taste and safety.
Freezing
While the prawns can be frozen after cooking, the mango salsa doesn’t freeze well due to its high water content and delicate textures. If freezing prawns, cool completely then freeze in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat the prawns, use a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through, avoiding overcooking. Serve immediately with fresh mango salsa straight from the fridge to keep that zingy contrast in temperature and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating so they absorb those amazing chili and lime flavors without excess moisture.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level is adjustable depending on your preference. Omitting the cayenne pepper and jalapeño will make it milder, while adding more can kick up the heat.
Can I substitute the prawns with another protein?
Sure! This marinade and salsa work beautifully with chicken, scallops, or even firm white fish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What’s the best way to tell when prawns are cooked?
Cooked prawns turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked prawns curl tightly and become rubbery, so keep a close eye while cooking.
Can I prepare the mango salsa a day ahead?
Yes, you can! Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. The flavors will meld nicely, but for the freshest taste and best texture, prepare it on the same day if possible.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Chilli Lime Prawns with Tangy Mango Salsa Recipe enough—it’s such a joyful combination of flavors that instantly brighten any meal. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or simply treating yourself, this dish brings a splash of sunshine and a burst of excitement to the dinner table. Go ahead and try it; your taste buds will thank you!
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Chilli Lime Prawns with Tangy Mango Salsa Recipe
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and flavorful recipe featuring spicy chilli lime prawns paired with a tangy and fresh mango salsa. Perfect for summer, this dish combines the zest of lime, the heat of chili, and the sweetness of ripe mango, creating a delicious tropical seafood experience that can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Chilli Lime Prawns:
- 1 pound (450g) large prawns or shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tangy Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño if using, cilantro, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Marinate the Prawns: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Add the prawns to the marinade and toss them thoroughly to coat all sides. Let the prawns marinate for 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the vibrant flavors.
- Cook the Prawns: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot. Place the prawns in a single layer in the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink, become opaque, and develop a slight char. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy and tender.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the hot cooked prawns over a bed of the fresh mango salsa or serve the salsa alongside as a bright, tangy topping. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro or lime wedges as desired for an added burst of freshness and color.
Notes
- These prawns are versatile: perfect for tacos, fresh salads, or served as a delightful appetizer.
- For extra richness, drizzle with avocado crema or serve the prawns over fragrant coconut rice.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper and jalapeño to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Tropical
