Amid the whirlwind of life, have you ever found yourself staring at yet another takeout menu, longing for something fresher and more vibrant? That’s how I felt when I dreamt up these Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce. This dish transforms your dinner routine with its festive and colorful components. Packed with perfectly grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and the tropical sweetness of mango salsa, these bowls are super easy to whip up—perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering. Plus, you’ll love how nutritious they are, making them a satisfying option without the heavy feel. Are you ready to dive into a culinary escape that’s just a few ingredients away? Why Are Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Special? Kicking Boredom to the Curb: These bowls are a vibrant twist on your dinner routine that will leave fast food in the dust. Fresh, Flavor-Packed Ingredients: Dive into the harmonious blend of creamy avocado, juicy mango, and smoky grilled shrimp. Quick and Easy: Perfectly grilled shrimp cooks in minutes, making this meal a breeze to prepare any night of the week. Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in grilled chicken or tofu, or experiment with different rice bases like jasmine or cauliflower. Eye-Catching Presentation: These colorful bowls are not just delicious, but they also look stunning—ideal for impressing guests at your next gathering. Whether you’re enjoying a solo dinner or hosting friends, elevate your meal game with these delightful Shrimp and Avocado Bowls! Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Ingredients Note: Gather these ingredients for a delightful Shrimp and Avocado Bowl that’s packed with flavor and nutrition! For the Shrimp Shrimp – Wild-caught shrimp grill beautifully and absorb all the flavors of your marinade. Olive Oil – Helps keep the shrimp moist and enhances the grilling process. Garlic Powder – Elevates the flavor profile with its delicious aroma. Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness that complements the shrimp wonderfully. Salt – Essential for enhancing all the bold flavors in the dish. For the Mango Salsa Mango – The star of the salsa, offering a tropical sweetness that brightens the bowl. Tomatoes – Adds a juicy burst and freshness to the mix. Red Onion – Provides a nice crunch and a touch of sharpness. Cilantro – Introduces a fresh herbal note that ties the salsa together. Lime Juice – Essential for that bright, zesty kick; it brings life to the salsa. For the Creamy Lime-Chili Sauce Greek Yogurt or Mayo – Serves as a creamy base; choose yogurt for a lighter option. Lime Juice – Adds acidity and freshness to the sauce. Chili Sauce or Sriracha – Introduces a gentle heat that perfectly balances the creaminess. For Assembly Cooked Rice – Acts as a neutral base to soak up the exciting flavors. Avocado – Creamy and rich, it beautifully complements the zesty salsa. Feel free to have fun with substitutions! These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls are not just delicious; they’re adaptable too! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Step 1: Marinate Shrimp In a mixing bowl, toss the wild-caught shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature. This step allows the flavors to mingle, enhancing the overall taste of the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with every bite. Step 2: Prepare Salsa While the shrimp marinates, chop the mango, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro into small pieces. Combine these ingredients in a bowl along with 1 tablespoon of lime juice, stirring gently to mix. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors in the mango salsa to develop while you continue with the recipe. Step 3: Grill Shrimp Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the grill. Grill for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and slightly charred. This grilling gives a delightful smoky flavor that complements the refreshing elements of your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls. Step 4: Mix Sauce In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayo) with the remaining lime juice and your choice of chili sauce or Sriracha. Stir well until smooth, adjusting the heat level to your preference. This creamy lime-chili sauce will add a zesty finish to the vibrant flavors of your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls, making each bite a treat. Step 5: Assemble Bowls To assemble your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls, start with a layer of cooked rice in each serving bowl. Neatly arrange the grilled shrimp and sliced avocado on top of the rice. Add a generous scoop of the chilled mango salsa and drizzle with the creamy lime-chili sauce. Your delicious and colorful meal is ready to serve immediately! What to Serve with Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Elevate your dining experience by harmonizing these delightful bowls with complementary sides that enhance the vibrant flavors. Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant accompaniment, this zesty rice will soak up all the savory goodness of your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls. Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, this tangy salad offers a hearty contrast to the creamy avocado and sweet mango salsa. For a fresh touch, consider a Crisp Green Salad: Add a mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and radishes with a light vinaigrette. The crunch and coolness will beautifully balance the warmth of the grilled shrimp. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn’s natural sweetness and slight char perfectly complement the tropical flavors while adding a delightful texture to the meal. And why not pair with a refreshing Watermelon Cooler: This fruity beverage refreshes your palate and brings a sweet, juicy contrast to the savory shrimp. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this silky treat mirrors the creamy avocado in your main dish. It’s a delightful way to round out the meal with a nod to the ingredients! Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Variations & Substitutions Customize your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls to suit your taste and dietary preferences while keeping the celebration of flavors alive! Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo for a creamy sauce without the dairy. Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or marinated tofu; both offer delicious alternatives packed with protein. Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or diced fresh chili to the mango salsa for an extra punch of heat that’s sure to excite your taste buds. Different Rice: Swap out traditional rice for quinoa, jasmine, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option without sacrificing flavor. Veggie Boost: Incorporate roasted red peppers or black beans into your bowl for added fiber and a pop of color. Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil in the mango salsa for a refreshing twist that complements the shrimp beautifully. Tropical Twist: Mix in diced pineapple or papaya with the mango salsa for a tropical flair that elevates your dish with surprising sweetness. For even more delicious recipes that inspire creativity in the kitchen, check out Avocado Mojo Bowls for a vibrant alternative, or make it a fun night with Sushi Bowls Savory for a sushi-inspired meal! Expert Tips for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Marinate in Advance: For even deeper flavor, marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead. This will allow the spices to really infuse into the shrimp. Use Wild-Caught Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible. They not only taste better but also contribute to sustainable fishing practices. Check for Doneness: Remember, shrimp cook quickly! Avoid overcooking. They should turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2–3 minutes per side when grilling. Prep Salsa Ahead: Making the mango salsa early allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing taste. Consider Alternatives: For a gluten-free and dairy-free Shrimp and Avocado Bowl, swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt option. Don’t hesitate to explore variations based on your dietary needs! How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Fridge: Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness and texture, allowing you to enjoy your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls again. Freezer: You can freeze the marinated shrimp for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before grilling for the best results. Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the shrimp on a grill pan or in a skillet for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Mango Salsa: For optimal taste, it’s best to eat the mango salsa fresh. If stored, consume within 1 day for the best flavor and texture. Make Ahead Options These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavor, just be sure to keep them in the refrigerator. Additionally, prepare the mango salsa a day ahead to let the flavors meld, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the creamy lime-chili sauce, mix it and refrigerate for the same duration, but add the fresh avocado just before serving to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls, simply grill the marinated shrimp and assemble everything for a quick, delicious meal! Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best shrimp for my Shrimp and Avocado Bowls? Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, opt for wild-caught over farmed for a firmer texture and better flavor. Look for shrimp that are pink with a slight sheen and avoid any that have dark spots or an ammonia smell. Fresh shrimp should have a clean, briny scent resembling the ocean. How should I store leftover shrimp and avocado bowls? It’s easy! Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This prevents sogginess and keeps the ingredients fresh. For example, keep the shrimp and mango salsa apart from the rice and avocado. When ready to enjoy, just reassemble your bowl! Can I freeze the shrimp in advance? Yes, indeed! You can freeze marinated shrimp for up to 3 months. To do this, place the marinated shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling. I often recommend this method for meal prep, making it super convenient for busy weeknights! What if my shrimp turns out rubbery? No worries! If your shrimp is rubbery, it might have been overcooked. To prevent this in the future, ensure that you’re grilling them for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Also, always use a medium-high heat; too little heat can cause shrimp to cook unevenly. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! This recipe can easily be adapted for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo. If you have shellfish allergies, you can replace the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu. Feel free to customize according to your needs! How long will the mango salsa last in the fridge? For optimal freshness, I recommend consuming the mango salsa within 1 day of preparation. After that, the texture and taste might start to decline. If you notice the ingredients have begun to turn mushy or have lost their vibrant colors, it’s best not to eat it. Delicious Shrimp and Avocado Bowls for Quick Weeknight Bliss Enjoy vibrant Shrimp and Avocado Bowls, featuring grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and mango salsa for a quick weeknight meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 36 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SeafoodCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound wild-caught shrimp grilled2 tablespoons olive oil1 teaspoon garlic powder1 teaspoon paprika1 teaspoon saltFor the Mango Salsa1 cup mango diced1 cup tomatoes chopped1/4 cup red onion finely chopped1/4 cup cilantro chopped1 tablespoon lime juiceFor the Creamy Lime-Chili Sauce1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayo1 tablespoon lime juice1 tablespoon chili sauce or SrirachaFor Assembly2 cups cooked rice1 avocado sliced Equipment Grill PanMixing BowlRefrigerator Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, toss the wild-caught shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until evenly coated. Let marinate for 15 minutes.While the shrimp marinates, chop the mango, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Combine in a bowl with lime juice.Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lime juice and chili sauce until smooth.To assemble, layer rice in bowls, top with grilled shrimp and avocado, add mango salsa, and drizzle with the creamy sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg NotesFeel free to swap in grilled chicken or tofu, or experiment with different rice bases like jasmine or cauliflower. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
