Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa
If you’re craving a meal that’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, these shrimp and avocado bowls with mango salsa are exactly what you need. Juicy shrimp are seasoned to perfection, creamy avocado adds richness, and the sweet-tangy mango salsa ties everything together. Perfect for summer lunches, meal prep, or healthy dinners, this dish balances protein, healthy fats, and vibrant produce in one colorful bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Recipe
- Balanced Nutrition: High-protein shrimp, healthy fats from avocado, and fresh fruit for vitamins.
- Burst of Flavor: Sweet mango, tangy lime, and smoky shrimp seasoning create a perfect combination.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Swap grains, add veggies, or make it low-carb.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for storing in containers for lunch on the go.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lime
Mango Salsa:
- 1 cup diced fresh mango
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for spice)
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (choose your base)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced
- Extra cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa
1. Prepare the Mango Salsa
- In a medium bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
- Mix well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Toss with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide your grain base (rice, quinoa, etc.) among serving bowls.
- Top with cooked shrimp, mango salsa, and sliced avocado.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips for the Best Shrimp and Avocado Bowls
- Use fresh mango: Ripe mango provides natural sweetness that balances the spice.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: Shrimp cooks fast—remove as soon as it turns pink.
- Customize your base: Swap rice for quinoa, couscous, or greens for a lighter option.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips for texture.
- Make it creamy: Drizzle with Greek yogurt or a light chipotle mayo for extra richness.
Variations to Try
- Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple to the mango salsa for extra sweetness.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve shrimp and mango salsa over cauliflower rice or leafy greens.
- Spicy Lovers: Increase jalapeño in the salsa or add a drizzle of sriracha.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas seasoned with the same spices.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it’s simple, vibrant, and nutrient-dense. The smoky spice on the shrimp pairs beautifully with the sweetness of mango and the creaminess of avocado. It’s versatile enough to serve as a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping lunch bowl for entertaining.
The combination of fresh fruit and savory protein also makes it perfect for warmer months when you crave lighter meals without sacrificing flavor.
Storage and Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 2–3 days.
- Avocado Tip: Add avocado fresh before serving to prevent browning.
- Meal Prep Hack: Cook extra shrimp and make double the mango salsa for quick lunches during the week.
Perfect Pairings
- Serve with tortilla chips on the side for scooping up salsa.
- Pair with a refreshing drink like limeade or iced tea.
- Add a side salad with leafy greens and citrus vinaigrette for extra veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp adds a smoky flavor that works beautifully with the mango salsa.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but cook briefly in the skillet with spices to warm and season them properly.
Final Thoughts
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. They’re fast, healthy, and endlessly adaptable—ideal for meal prep, casual dinners, or impressing guests with vibrant presentation and taste. Once you try them, they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!
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