Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a tropical-inspired dish bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect for quick dinners or meal prep, this recipe combines grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet mango salsa over a bed of rice or quinoa, making it a delicious and nutritious meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, these bowls are great for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of smoky shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty lime-chili sauce offers an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from avocados, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy these bowls for lunch or dinner. They also make excellent options for meal prepping!
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and toppings according to your preference—add more veggies or swap out grains as you like.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are the essential items you’ll need to prepare these Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill pan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill pan or skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect char on the shrimp.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without creating messes.
- Whisk: Helps you blend the lime-chili sauce smoothly for a creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Bowl
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
For the Lime-Chili Sauce
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp honey or agave
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa
- Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Mix well and set aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels. Season them with chili powder, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Heat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
- Start by adding a base of cooked rice or quinoa to each bowl.
- Arrange grilled shrimp on top along with sliced avocado and mango salsa.
Step 5: Drizzle with Lime-Chili Sauce
- Generously drizzle lime-chili sauce over each bowl.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy!
How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your dining experience by serving them in creative ways that highlight the fresh ingredients.
Casual Family Dinner
- Serve these bowls family-style, allowing everyone to customize their own with shrimp, avocado, and mango salsa.
- Pair with refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade for a complete meal.
Lunch Meal Prep
- Prepare individual bowls in advance for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Keep the lime-chili sauce separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Festive Gathering
- Present the bowls at your next gathering as a vibrant centerpiece on a buffet table.
- Add decorative garnishes like lime wedges and cilantro sprigs for a festive touch.
Light Summer Meal
- Serve alongside a light salad or grilled vegetables for a refreshing summer meal.
- Consider using coconut rice instead of regular rice for an extra tropical twist.
Beach Picnic
- Pack the bowls in airtight containers for a beach picnic, ensuring they stay fresh during travel.
- Bring along extra lime wedges for squeezing over the top just before serving.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for ripe avocados and fresh shrimp to enhance flavor and texture.
- Season Well: Don’t shy away from seasoning the shrimp generously; this adds depth to each bite.
- Chill Your Salsa: Allowing the mango salsa to chill in the fridge lets the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your lime-chili sauce by adjusting chili powder based on your spice tolerance.
- Experiment with Grains: Try different bases like quinoa or farro for unique textures and flavors.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro not only adds flavor but also makes your dish visually appealing.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Pairing side dishes can enhance your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce. Here are some great options to consider:
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover salsa or lime-chili sauce.
- Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad complements the tropical flavors of the bowl perfectly.
- Black Bean Salad: This adds protein and fiber, making your meal more filling while balancing flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a crisp contrast to the creamy avocado.
- Coconut Rice: Infusing rice with coconut milk creates a subtly sweet base that pairs well with shrimp.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb option that serves as an excellent bed for your shrimp bowl while adding nutrition.
- Mango Cabbage Slaw: The crunchiness of slaw adds texture, while mango ties back to your main dish’s salsa.
- Lime Cilantro Rice: This fragrant rice dish enhances the citrusy notes found within your main recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of for the best results.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and slightly charred.
- Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin the dish’s creaminess. Ensure your avocados are ripe for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping seasoning: Failing to season shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Use chili powder, salt, and pepper generously for a tasty kick.
- Neglecting resting time for salsa: Not allowing the mango salsa to chill can dull its flavors. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before serving.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the overall taste of your bowls. Choose fresh shrimp, ripe mangoes, and avocados for a delightful dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 2-3 days for best freshness.
Freezing Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Freeze shrimp separately from avocado and salsa to maintain texture.
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags; use within 1 month.
Reheating Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce that might help you out.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What can I substitute for mango in this recipe?
You could use diced pineapple or papaya as alternatives for a different tropical twist.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the assembled bowls.
Is there a vegetarian version of Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep components like salsa and sauce ahead of time but assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Final Thoughts
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available. Try it out today, and let your taste buds experience the tropical delight!
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a tropical delight that brings the vibrant flavors of summer to your dinner table. This easy-to-make dish features succulent grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and a refreshing mango salsa served over a base of rice or quinoa. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these bowls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. In just about 25 minutes, you can whip up this colorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Chili powder, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced mango, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and salt in a bowl. Chill in the fridge.
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (optional), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper for the lime-chili sauce.
- Season shrimp with chili powder, garlic powder (optional), salt, and pepper. Cook in a heated grill pan or skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Assemble bowls with rice or quinoa at the base topped with shrimp, avocado slices, and mango salsa.
- Drizzle with lime-chili sauce and garnish with cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
