Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are one of those delightful dishes that harmonize flavors and textures beautifully. Combining succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and vibrant mango salsa, this bowl is not just a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whenever I whip this up, I feel like I’m treating myself to a mini getaway, as the tropical notes dance on my palate. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or impressing guests at a casual get-together, this dish champions simplicity without compromising on taste.
Reasons to try it
What makes these Shrimp & Avocado Bowls worthy of your time? Well, it’s a medley of flavors and a variety of textures that come together effortlessly. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together—ideal for those busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The healthy ingredients like shrimp, mango, and avocado not only offer great taste but also nourish your body with essential nutrients. Plus, you can customize the level of spice in the dish, making it kid-approved and adaptable for any palate.
"I made this recipe for my family last weekend. Everyone polished off their bowls and was asking for more! The mango salsa was a game-changer!"
Preparing Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Creating this shrimp and avocado bowl is easier than you might think! Here’s a quick overview of the process: First, you’ll whip up a refreshing mango salsa that sits beautifully atop your shrimp. Next, the shrimp gets seasoned and cooked until perfectly pink. Finally, it all comes together in a vibrant bowl with a drizzle of zesty lime-chili sauce. It’s a quick assembly that results in a visually stunning, flavor-packed meal.
{image_template}
What you’ll need
To recreate this culinary experience, gather these essential ingredients:
- 250–300 g shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Squeeze of lime
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red pepper (optional), chopped
- 1–2 tbsp cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 jalapeño or chili for heat (optional)
- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes or hot sauce
- 1/2 tsp honey
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or salad greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Cucumber slices
- Extra lime wedges
Note: Feel free to swap out any ingredients according to your taste preferences or dietary needs!
Directions to follow
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to prepare these delightful bowls:
-
Make the mango salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped onion, optional red pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Cook the shrimp: Season the shrimp with paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and golden brown. Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice on top for a zing!
-
Mix the lime-chili sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lime juice, chili flakes or hot sauce, honey, and salt to taste.
-
Build the bowls: Start with a base of cooked rice, quinoa, or a bed of salad greens. Layer it with the cooked shrimp, mango salsa, sliced avocado, and optional toppings like cucumber and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the lime-chili sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Shrimp & Avocado Bowls are not only stunning but also versatile! Serve them in wide, shallow bowls to show off the colorful ingredients. You can pair them with a crisp side salad or some warm, crusty bread for an extra touch. If hosting, consider a DIY build-your-own bowl party where everyone can customize their own plates with additional toppings and proteins.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have leftovers, store them properly to ensure your dish stays fresh. Place any remaining components—cooked shrimp, mango salsa, and lime-chili sauce—into airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors of the mango salsa may deepen overnight, but avoid mixing everything until you’re ready to enjoy it again. Consume within two days for the best taste and quality!
Remember, always practice safe food handling. Make sure shrimp is cooked thoroughly and stored at the right temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Pro chef tips
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes before cooking. You can also experiment with different proteins—grilled chicken or tofu work wonderfully! Don’t hesitate to swap the vegetables based on what you have on hand; this recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it a go-to for using up any odds and ends in your fridge.
Creative twists
Looking to shake things up? Here are some flavorful variations:
- Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple to the mango salsa for an even fruitier bouquet.
- Spice Level: If you love heat, consider adding a hotter chili to the shrimp seasoning or spicing up your lime-chili sauce.
- Herb Varieties: Swap out cilantro for basil or mint for a fresh twist.
Your questions answered
-
What’s the prep time for this dish?
Prep time is only about 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick meal. -
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before cooking. -
How to store leftover mango salsa?
Keep it in an airtight container. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days. You can even enjoy it as a topping for grilled meats or as a snack with chips!
Enjoy making and savoring your bowls! With its stunning visual appeal and burst of flavor, this recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished meal in your repertoire.
