Are you craving a vibrant, healthy, and delicious meal that’s ready in just few minutes? Try this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe.
It is Ppacked with succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and a kick of spice, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal prep option.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fresh twist on rice bowls, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, nutrient-packed dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of zesty lime, spicy shrimp, and creamy avocado is unbeatable.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rice Bowl:
2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice)
2 ripe avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for extra heat)
1 lime, cut into wedges for serving
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Rice Bowl
Divide the cooked rice among four bowls.
Top each bowl with an equal portion of diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cooked shrimp.
Drizzle the dressing over each bowl and garnish with cilantro and jalapeño slices (if using).
Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Tips
Pick Fresh Shrimp: Choose fresh or frozen shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save time. If you use frozen shrimp, soak them in cold water for 10-15 minutes to thaw before cooking.
Adjust the Spice: Change the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeño to match your taste. If you prefer it milder, you can leave out both ingredients.
Prepare Rice Ahead: Cook the rice beforehand to make things quicker. You can also use pre-cooked or microwaveable rice for an easier option.
Cut Avocado Evenly: Slice the avocado into similar-sized pieces so that every bite is creamy.
Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, top your dish with crushed tortilla chips or toasted sesame seeds.
Variations and Substitutions
Grain Options: Swap brown rice for white rice, quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Protein Alternatives: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Add corn, black beans, cucumber, or shredded carrots for extra color and flavor.
Spice Level: For a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne and jalapeño. For more heat, add sriracha or hot sauce.
Dressing Variations: Try a creamy avocado dressing or a tangy mango salsa for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Enjoy this meal with a light cucumber salad, grilled veggies, or a fruit platter for a refreshing touch.
Drinks: Pair it with iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or a tropical smoothie to enhance the flavors.
Serving Style: Use wide, shallow bowls to display the bright colors of the ingredients nicely.
Make-Ahead, Storing, and Freezing Instructions
Make-Ahead
Cook the rice and shrimp up to 2 days in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Prepare the dressing and store it in a jar for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.
Chop vegetables (except avocado) ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save prep time.
Storing
Store assembled bowls (without dressing) in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
Store cooked shrimp separately for up to 2 days to prevent overcooking when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as avocado and fresh vegetables lose their texture when frozen.
However, you can freeze cooked rice and shrimp separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water for 10-15 minutes before marinating and cooking. Pat them dry to ensure the spices stick well.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Swap the shrimp for tofu, chickpeas, or grilled mushrooms. Use the same marinade for a similar flavor profile.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients like brown rice or quinoa.
Q: Can I make this dish less spicy?
A: Absolutely! Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeño, and use mild paprika instead of smoked for a gentler flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
A: Toss diced avocado with a little lime juice before adding it to the bowl, and store leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to minimize air exposure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe offers an ultimate combination of fresh, bold, and healthy flavors.
It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner.
With its vibrant colors and zesty taste, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests. Try it today and discover your new favorite go-to recipe!
Read More:- Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 ripe avocados diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 jalapeño thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 limes 1 for juice, 1 for wedges
- 3 tbsp olive oil for dressing
- 2 tbsp lime juice for dressing
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Spices: chili powder smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp with olive oil, spices, and lime juice for 10 minutes.
- Cook shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients (olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, salt, pepper).
- Assemble bowls with rice, shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
- Drizzle with dressing and serve with lime wedges.
