These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a delightful tropical-inspired dish that brings together fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal prep idea, this recipe offers a balanced and nutritious meal. The combination of grilled shrimp, sweet mango salsa, creamy avocado, and zesty lime-chili sauce is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: Each bowl is bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will take your taste buds on a tropical vacation.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein from shrimp, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber from grains, these bowls are a well-rounded meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill pan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill pan or skillet: Essential for cooking the shrimp evenly while achieving that perfect char.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce without mess.
- Whisk: Helps blend the lime-chili sauce ingredients smoothly for an even texture.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado and Mango Salsa
- 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
For the Base
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
For the Lime-Chili Sauce
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp honey or agave
Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa
Combine all salsa ingredients in a bowl:
In a mixing bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Set aside in the fridge to allow flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce
Whisk together:
In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Prepare the shrimp:
Pat dry the shrimp with paper towels. Season with chili powder, garlic powder (if desired), salt, and pepper.
Heat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
Cook shrimp for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Put together your delicious bowls:
Start by adding a base of cooked rice or quinoa to each bowl.
Arrange grilled shrimp on top along with sliced avocado and generous scoops of mango salsa.
Step 5: Drizzle with Lime-Chili Sauce
Finish off your creation:
Drizzle lime-chili sauce generously over each bowl.
Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Serving Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce is a delightful experience. These bowls are colorful and full of flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve this tropical-inspired dish.
For a Family Dinner
- Family-Style Serving: Place all ingredients in large bowls and let everyone build their own bowl. This makes for a fun and interactive dinner.
- Individual Bowls: Prepare each bowl separately for a more polished presentation. This is perfect for special occasions.
At a Summer BBQ
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Serve the shrimp on skewers for easy eating. This is great for outdoor gatherings.
- Tropical-themed Decor: Enhance the experience with vibrant tableware and tropical decorations to match the flavors of the dish.
Meal Prep Options
- Pre-packaged Bowls: Divide the ingredients into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Mix-and-Match Ingredients: Offer variations by including different grains or veggies in each container to keep meals exciting.
With Refreshing Drinks
- Coconut Water: Pair your bowls with chilled coconut water for a refreshing tropical drink.
- Fruit-infused Iced Tea: Serve iced tea infused with fruits like pineapple or mango to complement the flavors.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
To achieve the best results with your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Let the shrimp marinate in lime juice before grilling for extra flavor.
- Adjust Spiciness: Modify the amount of jalapeño in your salsa based on your heat preference.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the bowls right after assembling to keep ingredients fresh and vibrant.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Complementing your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover mango salsa.
- Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad that adds a nice contrast in texture.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds freshness; try a citrus dressing to enhance flavors.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with shrimp, especially brushed with lime butter.
- Quinoa Salad: A light salad packed with veggies that complements the main dish beautifully.
- Mango Coconut Rice: This sweet rice dish mirrors flavors in your main bowl while adding an exotic twist.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted seasonal veggies add nutrition and aesthetic appeal.
- Pineapple Salsa: A fruity addition that brings sweetness and balances savory flavors nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the shrimp: This can make the shrimp tough and chewy. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink for the best texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Bland shrimp can ruin your dish. Be sure to season your shrimp well with salt, pepper, and chili powder for full flavor.
- Not letting the mango salsa chill: Serving it warm can diminish its freshness. Allow your salsa to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Using unripe avocados: Hard avocados won’t provide that creamy texture you want. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure for perfect creaminess.
- Ignoring portion sizes: Serving too much rice or quinoa can overwhelm the other flavors. Aim for a balanced ratio of grains, shrimp, avocado, and salsa.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep components separate (shrimp, salsa, avocado) if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- The cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Avoid freezing avocado or mango salsa as they do not freeze well.
Reheating Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet; heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds), checking frequently until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce:
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can work well! Just ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.
How do I customize my Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce?
Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
What type of rice or grain works best?
You can use white rice, brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice as a low-carb option.
How spicy is the lime-chili sauce?
The spice level depends on how much chili powder you use. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors!
Final Thoughts
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding different toppings or adjusting spice levels. This meal is perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and meal prep adventures. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of tropical paradise!
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a vibrant and refreshing tropical dish that combines succulent grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and a zesty mango salsa. This delightful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a meal prep option to enjoy throughout the week. In just 25 minutes, you can create a balanced and nutritious meal that bursts with flavor. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements will transport your taste buds to paradise, making it a hit among family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp
- 1-2 ripe avocados
- 1 large ripe mango
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- Chili powder, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced mango, onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and salt in a bowl. Chill in the fridge.
- Make the lime-chili sauce by whisking Greek yogurt, lime juice and zest, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Season shrimp with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in a heated grill pan or skillet for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
- Assemble bowls with rice or quinoa as the base, topped with shrimp, avocado slices, and mango salsa.
- Drizzle with lime-chili sauce and garnish with cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
