If you’re on the lookout for a refreshing, vibrant meal that combines vivid color with bold flavors, the Mediterranean Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce may just hit the spot. As the seasons change and the demand for lighter, more flavorful dishes grows, this meal offers a delightful taste of sunshine in every bite. Perfect for a quick dinner or an enticing lunch, this recipe aims to elevate your dining experience with its lush tropical notes and tantalizing spice.
It’s not just about the bright greens of avocados meeting the sun-kissed hues of mangoes; it’s about creating a symphony of taste with a hint of spice and a touch of creaminess. The shrimp brings a savory oceanic flavor, while the lime-chili sauce adds a kick that will light up your taste buds. Whether you are a home chef looking to impress or just someone searching for a new favorite, this dish promises satisfaction with its ease of preparation and complex taste profile. With Mediterranean stylings and a striking presentation, this bowl can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary and memorable.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Shrimp and Avocado Bowl
Here’s what makes this dish a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish packs a punch without demanding too much time or effort.
- Health Boost: Combining lean protein, healthy fats, and vitamins from fresh produce, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to taste and dietary preferences, making it as versatile as it is flavorful.
- Visual Appeal: A feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors and appealing presentation that enhance dining pleasure.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparing the Mediterranean Shrimp and Avocado Bowls involves a few straightforward steps that will have you cooking like a pro in no time. To start, ensure your kitchen is well organized, with your ingredients prepped and tools readily accessible. For optimal workflow, gather all ingredients and necessary tools such as a grill pan or grill, a bowl for mixing, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a whisk.
Before you begin, make sure the kitchen is uncluttered to encourage a smooth preparation process. Using a grill enhances the flavor of the shrimp, imparting a slight char that contrasts beautifully with the dish’s fresh elements. If a grill isn’t available, a grill pan or regular nonstick skillet provides a suitable alternative. A sharp knife will be essential for chopping the vibrant salsa and slicing the creamy avocado, offering a clean and precise cut. As a bonus, organizing your workspace ensures the cooking process remains enjoyable and stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying the delightful journey of preparing this burst of culinary sunshine.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for the bowl:
- Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/8 tsp
- Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded & minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Lime-Chili Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Bowl Base:
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (per serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Shrimp
Begin by marinating the shrimp in olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend of seasoning enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors, ensuring each bite is a savory delight. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on the grill and cook them for 2–3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and achieve a slight char. This process not only cooks them perfectly but also locks in the juiciness, making them a perfect addition to your bowl.
Step 2: Make Mango Salsa
While the shrimp cooks, prepare your fresh mango salsa. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, freshly chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to blend the ingredients without crushing the vibrant mango cubes. This refreshing salsa adds a sweet and zesty note that complements the savory shrimp beautifully.
Step 3: Mix Lime-Chili Sauce
For the dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl. Adjust the Sriracha according to your heat preference, making sure it achieves a creamy yet spicy finish. This sauce drizzled over the bowl offers a creamy heat that ties all the flavors together.
Step 4: Assemble Bowls
Begin assembling your Mediterranean bowls by laying a hearty base of cooked rice in each bowl. Top the rice with the grilled shrimp, avocado slices, and a generous scoop of mango salsa. Finish by drizzling the lime-chili sauce over the top, creating an appetizing, colorful bowl. If desired, garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a unique twist. It provides a different texture while keeping the flavors intact.
- Vegetables: Add fresh chopped bell peppers or sliced cucumber to the bowl for extra crunch and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika or cumin in the shrimp marinade for an additional layer of depth.
Cooking Notes
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh, ripe ingredients for maximum flavor, especially for the mango and avocado.
- Grill Technique: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; it becomes tough and loses its juicy texture when overdone.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust the lime and Sriracha according to personal taste preferences, aiming for a balanced creamy-spicy blend.
Serving Suggestions
- Light Lunch: Enjoy as a healthy and fulfilling lunch on its own, offering a balanced mix of flavors and nutrients.
- Dinner Delight: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or with warm grilled flatbreads to make an enticing dinner spread.
Tips
- Avocado Care: Slice avocados just before serving to prevent browning, maintaining their appealing green color.
- Meal Prep: Prep the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce in advance to save time during assembly.
- Rice Choice: Use leftover cooked rice for convenience, or flavor fresh rice with a bit of lime zest for an extra zesty note.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 550 per serving
- Protein: 35g per serving
- Sodium: 720mg per serving
FAQs
How can I make the dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Sriracha in the lime-chili sauce or omit the jalapeño in the mango salsa to tone down the heat.
What other seafood can I use?
You can substitute shrimp with scallops or white fish like cod or tilapia to create a different seafood profile while keeping the Mediterranean taste intact.
Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, the salsa and sauce can be made one day in advance. Keep them refrigerated and assembled closer to serving time to preserve freshness.
How can I store leftovers?
Store components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reassemble and rewarm elements like shrimp and rice before serving for best texture and flavor retention.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce not only promise a burst of sunshine in flavor but also a rewarding culinary endeavor. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it creates an exciting dining experience. This recipe champions simplicity and adaptability, making it perfect for any occasion or preference. Whether you choose to stick to the original recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this bowl is bound to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to add your personal touch and share your experience or any creative twists in the comments below. Enjoy this dish as part of your meal routine or as a dish to impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!
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Mediterranean Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant meal that combines shrimp, avocado, and mango for a refreshing experience.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/8 tsp
- Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded & minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Lime-Chili Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Bowl Base:
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (per serving)
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the shrimp in olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on the grill and cook them for 2–3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and achieve a slight char.
- While the shrimp cooks, prepare your fresh mango salsa. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, freshly chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to blend the ingredients without crushing the vibrant mango cubes.
- For the dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl.
- Begin assembling your Mediterranean bowls by laying a hearty base of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with the grilled shrimp, avocado slices, and a generous scoop of mango salsa. Finish with a drizzle of lime-chili sauce.
Notes
You can swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Protein: 35 g