Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with these vibrant Shrimp and Avocado Bowls. The smoky, char-grilled shrimp perfectly complement the sweetness of mango salsa and the creamy richness of ripe avocado. Topped with a zesty lime-chili sauce, this dish combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite—making it the ultimate tropical-inspired meal. Whether you’re prepping for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal prep, this dish will brighten your day!
Tropical Bliss in Every Bite
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls are bursting with vibrant flavors and a beautiful balance of textures. Grilled shrimp, fresh mango salsa, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime-chili sauce come together on a bed of rice or quinoa, creating a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s both simple and stunning.
Perfect for:
- A quick weeknight dinner
- Meal prep that feels like a treat
- Impressing guests with a fresh and flavorful meal
Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, jasmine) or quinoa
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
For the Lime-Chili Sauce:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp honey or agave
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 diced mango
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa
In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix and let the salsa sit in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (optional), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re opaque and lightly charred.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
In each bowl, add a base of cooked rice or quinoa. Top with grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and mango salsa. Drizzle the lime-chili sauce generously over the top.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Enjoy immediately!
How to Cook Shrimp Perfectly
To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, follow these timing guidelines:
- Medium Shrimp (31-40 count): 2 minutes per side
- Large Shrimp (21-30 count): 2-3 minutes per side
- Extra-Large Shrimp (16-20 count): 3-4 minutes per side
Shrimp are done when they turn pink, curl into a “C” shape, and are opaque throughout.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store shrimp, mango salsa, rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers. Shrimp should be eaten within 2-3 days for the best flavor.
- Freezer: Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 1 month. Cool the shrimp completely before storing in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp offer the best flavor and texture. Be sure to pat them dry before cooking for a better sear.
- Choose Ripe Avocados and Mangoes: Select avocados and mangoes that are ripe but not overly soft for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the Heat: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or the chili powder on the shrimp.
- Add Crunch: Toasted pepitas, chopped nuts, or crispy tortilla strips can be sprinkled on top for added texture.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce in advance. Cook the shrimp fresh when ready to serve for the best results.
This tropical-inspired dish is a colorful and delicious way to add variety to your meals. The vibrant flavors of shrimp, mango, avocado, and lime make this a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again!
More Tropical-Inspired Recipes:
- Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce
- Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus & Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Seared Scallop Bowls with Asparagus & Creamy Sauce