(Better Than Takeout!)
Introduction
If fresh, colorful, and bold flavors are your thing, this Shrimp and Avocado Bowl with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce is about to become your new favorite meal. Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp meet creamy avocado, sweet mango salsa, and a tangy, slightly spicy lime-chili sauce—all layered over fluffy rice.
This dish is a total winner because it’s:
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Packed with protein and healthy fats
- Naturally gluten-free
- Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners
- Restaurant-quality but easy enough for beginners
It’s the kind of bowl that looks fancy but is secretly simple.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Juice of ½ lime
👉 Tip: Wild-caught shrimp taste better and cook more evenly.
For the Mango Salsa
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Lime-Chili Sauce
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1–2 tbsp lime juice (to taste)
- 1 tsp chili sauce or hot sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
For the Bowl Base
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- Fresh cilantro & lime wedges for garnish
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
- Medium saucepan (for rice)
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Whisk or spoon
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Preparation Steps (Nice & Easy)
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff and set aside.
- Prep the shrimp: Pat dry with paper towels.
- Season shrimp with olive oil, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Chop salsa ingredients and toss everything together in a bowl.
- Mix the sauce by whisking all lime-chili sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Slice avocados just before serving to keep them fresh and green.
Cooking Instructions
Cooking the Shrimp
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred.
- Remove immediately—overcooking makes shrimp rubbery!
🔥 Secret Tip: Let the shrimp sit undisturbed for the first 2 minutes to get that beautiful golden crust.
How to Assemble & Serve
- Start with a base of warm rice.
- Add sliced avocado on one side.
- Spoon mango salsa generously.
- Top with hot shrimp.
- Drizzle lime-chili sauce over everything.
- Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Serve with:
- Corn chips
- Grilled veggies
- A light cucumber salad
Additional Tips & Variations
- Low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice
- Dairy-free: Use coconut yogurt for the sauce
- Extra spicy: Add cayenne or chipotle powder
- Meal prep: Store components separately for up to 3 days
- Protein swap: Try grilled chicken or tofu
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Sugar | 11 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store shrimp, rice, salsa, and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep everything ahead—assemble just before eating.
Q: What’s the healthiest rice option?
Brown rice or quinoa adds more fiber and nutrients.
Wrap-Up
This Shrimp and Avocado Bowl with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce is proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring. It’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with tropical flavors—perfect for busy nights or when you want something special without the effort.
Fun fact: Mango and chili are a classic flavor pairing in many coastal cuisines, especially in Latin and Caribbean dishes—sweet heat at its best!
