These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to meal prep for lunches. The combination of grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet mango salsa creates a delightful balance of flavors. The zesty lime-chili sauce adds a kick that elevates the dish. This vibrant recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying choice for health-conscious eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this meal in under 30 minutes.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of shrimp, mango, and lime offers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Versatile Meal Option: Serve it over rice or quinoa for a hearty dish, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch and store it in the fridge for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce effectively, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill pan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill pan or skillet: Essential for achieving perfectly cooked shrimp with a nice char.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients like salsa and sauces seamlessly.
- Whisk: Helps to blend the lime-chili sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
Ingredients
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a tropical-inspired dish bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Grilled, smoky shrimp, sweet mango salsa, creamy avocado, and zesty lime-chili sauce come together over a bed of rice or grains for a balanced, nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe will transport your taste buds to paradise.
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced
For the Mango Salsa
- 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 Lime-Chili Sauce
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp honey or agave
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 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 diced mango, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well and set aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste then set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry. Season them with chili powder, garlic powder (optional), salt, and pepper. Heat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and have slight char marks.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
Start by adding cooked rice or quinoa as the base in each bowl. Top it off with grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and mango salsa.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Drizzle generous amounts of lime-chili sauce over each bowl. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. 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 straightforward and enjoyable. These vibrant bowls are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
For a Casual Family Dinner
- Large Sharing Platter: Serve all components on a large platter for a fun, family-style meal. Each person can customize their bowl.
- Individual Bowls: Create personal servings for each guest, allowing everyone to build their own bowl with their preferred toppings.
For Meal Prep
- Mason Jar Layers: Layer the ingredients in mason jars for easy grab-and-go meals. Start with rice or quinoa at the bottom, followed by shrimp, avocado, and top with mango salsa and sauce.
- Refrigerate Separately: Keep each component separate until ready to eat. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain freshness.
For a Picnic or Potluck
- Portable Containers: Pack the ingredients in portable containers. This way, guests can assemble their bowls at the picnic site or potluck.
- Add Chips: Include tortilla chips as a crunchy side option that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the bowl.
With Drinks
- Coconut Water: This refreshing drink complements the tropical vibes of the dish.
- Margaritas: For an adult gathering, serve classic lime margaritas alongside these bowls for a festive touch.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
To make your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls even better, consider these simple tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Seasoning: Ensure your shrimp is well-seasoned before grilling. A good mix of spices brings out their natural sweetness.
- Use Ripe Ingredients: Choose ripe avocados and mangoes for the best texture and flavor. They should be slightly soft but not mushy.
- Grill to Perfection: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can lead to tough shrimp. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh cilantro elevates the dish. Use it generously in both the salsa and as a garnish to enhance flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
These side dishes complement Shrimp and Avocado Bowls perfectly, adding variety to your meal.
- Black Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime juice provides extra protein and fiber.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the tropical theme of your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter makes a sweet addition that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring color and nutrients to your plate; simply season and roast until tender.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with pineapple, kiwi, and watermelon adds more fruitiness to balance the meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread acts as a comforting side that’s easy to prepare while offering a contrasting texture.
- Chips & Guacamole: Serve crunchy tortilla chips alongside homemade guacamole for an extra treat that guests will love.
- Simple Green Salad: A light green salad dressed in vinaigrette adds crunch without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you use enough chili powder, salt, and pepper for a tasty dish.
- Using unripe avocados – Unripe avocados can ruin the creamy texture of your bowls. Always choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
- Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re just pink and slightly charred.
- Neglecting the mango salsa prep – Making the mango salsa ahead of time allows flavors to meld together. Don’t skip this step for maximum freshness and taste.
- Not balancing textures – A good bowl should have a mix of textures. Make sure to include creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and fluffy grains for a satisfying bite.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best flavor and quality.
Freezing Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Freeze the shrimp and salsa separately from the rice or grains.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 1-2 months.
Reheating Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
What can I substitute for mango in the salsa?
If you’re out of mango, you can use diced pineapple or peach as a sweet alternative in the salsa.
How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas, and replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt option.
What grains can I use instead of rice?
Quinoa is an excellent alternative that adds protein. You can also use farro or barley for added texture.
Can I prepare the mango salsa ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the mango salsa a few hours ahead allows the flavors to develop even more deliciously.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are not only vibrant but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite toppings or using different proteins. Enjoy this refreshing meal that transports you straight to tropical paradise!
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Featuring succulent grilled shrimp paired with creamy avocado and a refreshing mango salsa, this meal is not only visually appealing but also nutritious. The zesty lime-chili sauce adds an exciting kick, making each bite a tropical experience. With quick preparation and versatile serving options, these bowls are ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep lunches, ensuring you enjoy a healthy yet delicious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinners
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1-2 ripe avocados (sliced)
- 1 large ripe mango (diced)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
Instructions
- Prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, red onion, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate to meld flavors.
- For the lime-chili sauce, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime zest and juice, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
- Season the shrimp with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and slightly charred.
- Assemble your bowls by placing cooked rice or quinoa at the base; top with grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and mango salsa.
- Drizzle lime-chili sauce over the top and garnish with cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 397
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 445mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
