Description: A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, sweet mango salsa, and a zesty lime-chili sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This bowl is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.
Ingredients:
For the Bowls:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 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 diced mango
- 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
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa Begin by crafting the vibrant mango salsa. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, finely chopped jalapeño (if using for a touch of heat), lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring they are well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter salsa, you can add a small amount of honey or agave. Once the salsa is to your liking, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other components of the dish. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce Next, prepare the creamy and zesty lime-chili sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using for extra richness), chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, honey or agave, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. If you like a spicier sauce, add a pinch more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. For a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey or agave. Once the sauce is perfect, set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp Prepare the shrimp by patting them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear when cooked. In a bowl, season the shrimp with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated with the spices. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls Now it’s time to assemble the delicious Shrimp and Avocado Bowls. Start by adding a base of cooked rice or quinoa to each bowl. The amount of rice or quinoa you use will depend on your personal preference. Next, arrange the grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and mango salsa on top of the rice or quinoa. Be generous with the toppings, ensuring each bowl is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Step 5: Drizzle and Garnish Finally, drizzle the lime-chili sauce generously over the bowls. The amount of sauce you use will depend on your taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. The lime wedges can be squeezed over the bowls for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls immediately!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Shrimp and Avocado Bowl recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of the sweet mango salsa, creamy avocado, zesty lime-chili sauce, and savory shrimp creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
- Healthy and Nutritious: This bowl is packed with protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can customize this bowl to your liking by adding other toppings such as black beans, corn, or bell peppers.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this bowl a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these bowls as a light lunch or a healthy dinner.
- Pair them with a side of tortilla chips for scooping up the salsa.
- Add a dollop of guacamole for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a cold glass of iced tea or a refreshing margarita.
Tips:
- Use ripe but firm avocados for the best texture.
- If you don’t have fresh mango, you can use frozen mango, thawed.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder in the lime-chili sauce to your liking.
- For a spicier salsa, leave the seeds in the jalapeño.
- If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or plain yogurt.
- To save time, you can buy pre-cooked shrimp.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 400-600mg
Conclusion:
The Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients and bold flavors makes this bowl a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is a perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help them get a nice sear in the pan.
Q2: I don’t have mango on hand. Can I substitute it with another fruit? A: Absolutely! Pineapple is a great substitute for mango in this recipe. Its sweetness and slight tanginess complement the other ingredients beautifully. You could also use peaches or nectarines if you prefer.
Q3: I’m not a fan of spicy food. Can I omit the jalapeño from the mango salsa? A: Of course! If you’re sensitive to spice, simply leave out the jalapeño from the mango salsa. The salsa will still be delicious and refreshing without the added heat.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While you can prepare some components of the recipe in advance, such as the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce, it’s best to assemble the bowls just before serving. This is because the avocado can brown and the shrimp can become rubbery if stored for too long.
Q5: What other toppings can I add to these bowls? A: The possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative and add any toppings you enjoy. Some popular options include black beans, corn, bell peppers, shredded cabbage, crumbled cotija cheese, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
