The aroma of sizzling shrimp dancing on a hot skillet instantly transports me to sun-soaked beaches, where the vibrant colors of a tropical paradise come alive. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for the Ultimate Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl, a dish that effortlessly combines smoky, spicy shrimp with the creamy goodness of fresh avocado and zesty mango salsa. This bowl not only brightens your weeknight meals but also showcases a beautiful array of textures and flavors that are guaranteed to impress. With easy prep and bold ingredients, it’s a satisfying choice that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Ready to take your dinner routine to the next level? Let’s dive into this colorful culinary adventure!
Why Is This Bowl a Must-Try?
Vibrant Flavors: This Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl bursts with tropical taste, perfectly blending smoky shrimp, zesty mango salsa, and rich avocado.
Quick & Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish makes weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Texture Contrast: Experience a delightful mix of crispy shrimp, creamy avocado, and fluffy rice that creates a satisfying mouthfeel in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s not just a meal; it’s a showstopper! Serve it at gatherings, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “tropical delight.”
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and healthy fats, this bowl is a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, or introduce different fruits into the salsa for a twist on this classic dish. Don’t forget to check out our Shrimp Rice Flavorful if you’re looking for more delicious variations!
Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl Ingredients
For the Rice
- Long-grain white rice – Acts as the neutral base that soaks up flavors. Substitution: Brown rice or quinoa can be used for a healthier alternative.
- Water – Essential for cooking the rice.
For the Shrimp
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Provides the primary protein component. Ensure shrimp are patted dry to achieve a proper sear.
- Olive oil – Used for searing the shrimp, helping spices adhere.
- Chili powder – Adds spiciness and forms a reddish coating on the shrimp.
- Smoked paprika – Provides a smoky flavor profile.
- Ground cumin – Adds depth and warmth to the dish.
- Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor.
For the Mango Salsa
- Mango (diced) – Adds sweetness and tropical flair. Use ripe mango for best flavor.
- Purple onion (finely minced) – Provides crunch and a mild onion flavor.
- Green jalapeno (minced) – Introduces heat and freshness.
- Fresh green cilantro leaves – Offers a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- Fresh lime juice – Brightens flavors and balances spices.
For the Drizzle
- Mayonnaise – Forms the base of the creamy drizzle. Substitution: Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a lighter version.
- Sriracha (or smooth hot sauce) – Adds spice to the drizzle.
For Serving
- Large green avocado (sliced) – Provides a creamy texture that complements the shrimp.
- Black sesame seeds – Used as a garnish for visual appeal.
The Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl promises a delightful culinary experience that will elevate your weeknight dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, in a medium pot, combine rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the water is absorbed. Afterward, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 2: Prepare Mango Salsa
While the rice cooks, make the fresh mango salsa. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 diced ripe mango, 1 finely minced purple onion, 1 minced green jalapeno, and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro leaves. Squeeze in the juice of one lime, mixing everything gently. Set aside for the flavors to meld while you prepare the remaining elements of your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice until smooth and creamy. This zesty drizzle will add a delightful kick to your dish. For convenience, transfer the mixture into a squeeze bottle, allowing for easy drizzling over your completed bowl later on.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Pat 1 pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a proper sear. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and slightly charred, ensuring they achieve that iconic smoky flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Once the shrimp are perfectly charred, it’s time to assemble your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl. Start with a generous layer of fluffy rice at the bottom of your bowl. Next, artfully arrange the sizzling shrimp on top, followed by slices of smooth avocado and a generous scoop of mango salsa.
Step 6: Drizzle and Garnish
Finish off your beautifully assembled bowl with a drizzle of the zesty sauce you prepared earlier. For an added touch, sprinkle black sesame seeds over the top and garnish with extra cilantro leaves for freshness. This not only adds visual appeal but enhances the flavors of the dish, making it an irresistible meal that bursts with tropical vibes!
How to Store and Freeze Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl
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Fridge: Store the assembled Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the salsa and shrimp separate to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: While not ideal for the complete dish, you can freeze the cooked shrimp alone in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make shrimp rubbery.
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Freshness Tip: Slice the avocado just before serving to keep it from browning. The salsa is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare it the day you plan to serve your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl.
What to Serve with The Ultimate Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl
Creating a delightful meal doesn’t end with the vibrant flavors in your bowl; explore these sides and drinks to elevate your dining experience.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery treat adds a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the dish’s creamy avocado and smoky shrimp.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the tropical vibes of your meal.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon-infused olive oil adds brightness and a delightful green crunch that pairs wonderfully.
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Mango Lobster Salad: For a special touch, consider this luxurious salad; its sweetness and richness harmonize beautifully with the shrimp, bringing a fresh coastal flair.
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Pineapple Coconut Rice: Infuse coconut and pineapple into your rice for a tropical twist; this fragrant side will mirror the vibrant touches in your bowl.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing sparkling water garnished with lime slices keeps the meal lively and brightens the palate between bites.
These side dishes and beverages will take your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl to a whole new level, making it a truly memorable coastal feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowls are ideal for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal fuss! You can prepare the mango salsa up to 24 hours ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the flavors fresh. The rice can also be cooked up to 3 days in advance—simply refrigerate it, then reheat it before serving. For the shrimp, it’s best to season them right before cooking for the best quality. When you’re ready to serve, quickly sear the shrimp and assemble the bowl with avocado slices and drizzle. This way, you’ll have a vibrant meal ready to enjoy without the last-minute rush!
Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists and substitutions that can make the Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl uniquely yours!
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Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a delightful twist. Each protein brings its unique flavor while maintaining satisfying textures.
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Fruit Variation: Use pineapple or papaya instead of mango in the salsa for a tropical twist. The juicy sweetness will elevate your bowl to new heights of flavor!
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Grain Alternatives: Swap long-grain rice for fluffy quinoa or nutty brown rice for a healthier base. Each option adds a distinct flavor while enhancing nutrient content.
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Creamy Substitute: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of mayonnaise for a lighter creamy drizzle. Each option adds a tangy note that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh mint or basil with cilantro for an exciting herbaceous flavor in your salsa. These fresh herbs elevate the overall freshness of the bowl.
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Heat It Up: Add a diced serrano pepper to the mango salsa for an extra kick of heat. It’s a simple way to make the dish more exciting for spice lovers!
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Crunch Factor: Toss in some roasted corn or chopped celery for added crunch in your bowl. This enhances texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Mango Salsa Twist: For an extra zing, incorporate diced jalapenos into the mango salsa. The heat will perfectly balance the sweet mango, creating an unforgettable flavor profile.
By customizing your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl, you will make it your own while indulging in tropical flavors that never disappoint. If you’re interested in more shrimp dishes, check out our Garlic Shrimp Over recipe for an equally delicious experience!
Helpful Tricks for Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl
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Pat the Shrimp Dry: Ensure shrimp are completely dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect sear, avoiding steam that can make them rubbery.
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Use a Heavy Pan: Opt for a heavy-bottomed skillet to promote even heat distribution and achieve that sought-after char on the shrimp.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using ripe, fresh mango for the salsa and avocado will elevate the flavors, ensuring each bite of your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl is delicious.
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Slice Avocado Last: To prevent browning, slice the avocado just before serving. This keeps your bowl looking vibrant and welcoming.
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Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to alter the salsa by adding pineapple or papaya, embracing new tropical flavors that complement the shrimp beautifully.
Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe mango for my salsa?
Absolutely! When selecting a mango, look for one with a slight give when gently squeezed and a fragrant aroma. The skin should show a mix of green and yellow-red hues. Avoid any fruit with dark spots all over, as this indicates overripeness.
What’s the best way to store the leftovers?
Very! To keep your Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl fresh, store all components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents the shrimp from getting soggy and keeps the avocado from browning. Enjoy the salsa within 24 hours for the best flavor!
Can I freeze the shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Place them in a sealed freezer bag and ensure to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge before gently reheating in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes.
What should I do if my shrimp aren’t getting that nice char?
If your shrimp aren’t charred enough, ensure they are completely dry before seasoning. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat and give them enough space; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect smoky flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! This dish is well-suited for many diets and can be adjusted easily. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just opt for certified gluten-free mayonnaise. For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead. Plus, swapping shrimp for chicken or tofu makes it a great fit for various dietary needs.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
I often make sure to slice the avocado just before serving; this keeps it fresh and vibrant! You can also lightly brush it with lime juice for additional protection against browning, or store any leftover sliced avocado with the pit still intact in a sealed container with lime juice on top.
Irresistibly Flavorful Charred Shrimp and Avocado Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice with water and a pinch of salt in medium pot. Bring to boil, reduce heat to low, cover, let simmer for 15-18 minutes until absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing.
- In a bowl, mix diced mango, minced onion, minced jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze in lime juice and mix gently. Set aside for flavors to meld.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Transfer to squeeze bottle for easy drizzling.
- Pat shrimp dry. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Toss shrimp with chili powder, paprika, cumin, and salt. Sear for 2-3 minutes until pink and charred.
- Assemble the bowl starting with a layer of rice, adding shrimp, avocado slices, and mango salsa on top.
- Drizzle with the sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds for garnish. Enjoy!
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