Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Introducing the delightful Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce—an explosion of flavors that transports your taste buds straight to a tropical paradise! This bowl is all about freshness and vibrancy, making it the perfect dish for warm evenings or any time you crave a burst of sunshine on your plate. In just 25 minutes, you can have this delicious and visually stunning meal ready to impress your family and friends. Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, creamy avocado slices, and a sensational mango salsa that brings a delightful sweetness and zest to each bite. Topped off with a zesty lime-chili sauce, these bowls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
1 large ripe mango, diced
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving
For the Mango Salsa:
1 mango, diced
¼ cup red onion, diced
1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
1–2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Salt, to taste
For the Lime-Chili Sauce:
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
1 teaspoon chili powder
Zest and juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon honey or agave
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

To get the party started for your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa, the first step is to prepare the mango salsa. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, chopped jalapeño (if you like a bit of heat), the juice of one lime, and 1–2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to season it with salt to taste! Once everything is well mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill—allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Next up is the lime-chili sauce. Grab another bowl and whisk together ¼ cup of plain Greek yogurt, a tablespoon of mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier texture, a teaspoon of chili powder, the zest and juice of one lime, and a teaspoon of honey or agave for a hint of sweetness. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking, then set it aside for later.

Now it’s time to cook the shrimp! Pat the large shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help in achieving that beautiful sear. Season the shrimp generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder for an extra kick. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan, cooking them for about 2–3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and develop a delightful char.

With everything prepped, it’s now time to assemble your bowls. Start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa—whichever you prefer—and lay it in the bottom of your serving bowl. Next, delicately layer on the cooked shrimp, ensuring each bowl gets enough for a satisfying bite. Add the slices of avocado and top with your homemade mango salsa for a color pop and a flavor boost. Finally, drizzle that zesty lime-chili sauce you prepared earlier over the top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick, and watch as your guests delight in this tropical feast!

Variations

The beauty of Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa is that they’re super versatile! If you’re looking to mix things up or cater to different taste preferences, here are a few variations that can take this dish to the next level:

Grains Variation: Swap out the rice or quinoa for another grain like couscous or farro for a different texture and flavor.
Fruit Alternatives: Feel free to add or replace the mango with pineapple or papaya for an additional tropical twist.
Vegetarian Option: If you want to make this recipe vegetarian, try substituting shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh. Season them with the same spices to maintain flavor.
Extra Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by adding fresh spinach, arugula, or even some sautéed bell peppers and zucchini.
Spice Level: For those who love heat, try incorporating diced habanero or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the mango salsa.

These variations will not only allow you to customize the dish but also keep it exciting every time you make it!

Cooking Notes

To ensure that your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls turn out delightful every time, consider these cooking notes:

Cooking Time: Cooking shrimp is quick—watch them closely! Overcooking will lead to rubbery shrimp.
Prep Ingredients Ahead: You can save time by prepping the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce a day ahead. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Grill Pan or Skillet: Both options work fine; a grill pan will give you those nice char marks while a regular skillet can handle larger batches.
Choose Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are ripe but firm. This will help them maintain their shape when sliced.
Fresh Ingredients: Try to use fresh herbs and citrus for the best flavor; they make all the difference in your salsa and sauce!

These simple tips will elevate your dish and make preparation a breeze!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls, presentation is key. Here are some serving suggestions to make your bowls look as good as they taste:

Garnish each bowl with an extra sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for that popping green color.
Arrange lime wedges around the bowls for a touch of freshness and easy access for squeezing.
Consider serving these bowls on colorful plates to enhance their vibrant appearance.

Tips

Always taste your salsa before serving! Adjust the seasonings as needed for your personal preference.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe—these bowls are sure to become a favorite!
When selecting shrimp, look for wild-caught varieties if possible, as they generally have better flavor and texture.
For an extra touch, serve with a side of tortilla chips for a delightful crunch!
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but note the avocado may brown.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 25 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the lime-chili sauce?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt or a homemade cashew cream.

Can I make the mango salsa a day ahead?
Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors are mild, but you can adjust the spice level by omitting the jalapeño for the little ones.

Can I use other fruits in the salsa?
Of course! Other great fruits for salsa include peaches, kiwi, or even strawberries for a unique twist!

Conclusion

The Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce is an inviting, fresh, and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Perfect for a light dinner, lunch meal prep, or casual entertaining, these bowls promise a delightful taste experience. With a combination of textures from the creamy avocado, sweet mango, and zesty sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit on your dining table. Don’t forget to let your friends know how easy and quick it is to make by sharing your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!