Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowl: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Shrimp avocado mango bowl: Prepare to be transported to a tropical paradise with every single bite! Imagine succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp mingling with creamy avocado, sweet, juicy mango, and a zesty lime dressing. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an explosion of flavor and texture that will leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of the shrimp avocado mango bowl are debated, its vibrant ingredients hint at influences from Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, where fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and bold flavors reign supreme. Think of ceviche’s bright acidity combined with the satisfying heartiness of a grain bowl – a truly delightful fusion!

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. The shrimp provides a protein-packed base, while the avocado adds healthy fats and a luxurious creaminess. The mango brings a burst of sunshine, and the lime dressing ties it all together with a refreshing zing. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a light and refreshing lunch. I find myself making this at least once a week!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice (I prefer quinoa for the protein!)
• 4 cups mixed greens (spring mix, spinach, or your favorite)
• Optional toppings: toasted coconut flakes, sesame seeds, sriracha mayo

Preparing the Shrimp:

Okay, let’s get started with the shrimp! This is the heart of our bowl, so we want to make sure it’s perfectly seasoned and cooked.

1. Pat the shrimp dry: This is crucial! Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the shrimp. This helps them get a nice sear instead of steaming in their own juices.
2. Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the spices. I love smoked paprika because it adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but regular paprika works too!
3. Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
4. Cook time: Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque and slightly curled. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become rubbery. I usually aim for a nice golden-brown sear on each side.
5. Remove from heat: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly.

Preparing the Mango Avocado Salsa:

Now for the vibrant and refreshing salsa! This is where the magic happens, adding sweetness, creaminess, and a zesty kick to our bowl.

1. Dice the avocado and mango: Carefully dice the avocados and mango into small, bite-sized pieces. I like to aim for roughly the same size for both, so they mix well together.
2. Slice the red onion: Thinly slice the red onion. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow out the flavor.
3. Chop the cilantro: Roughly chop the cilantro. Don’t be afraid to use the stems too, as they have a lot of flavor!
4. Combine the ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocado, mango, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
5. Add lime juice: Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. The lime juice not only adds a bright, zesty flavor but also helps prevent the avocado from browning.
6. Season to taste: Gently toss the salsa to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overmix, as the avocado can become mushy.
7. Chill (optional): If you have time, you can chill the salsa in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it’s also delicious served immediately!

Assembling the Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowl:

Finally, the fun part – putting everything together! This is where you can get creative and customize your bowl to your liking.

1. Prepare the base: In each bowl, place a bed of mixed greens. I like to use a spring mix for its variety of textures and flavors, but spinach or your favorite greens will work just as well.
2. Add the quinoa or rice: Top the greens with cooked quinoa or rice. I prefer quinoa because it’s a complete protein and adds a nutty flavor, but rice is also a great option. Make sure the quinoa or rice is cooked according to package directions.
3. Arrange the shrimp: Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the quinoa or rice. I like to fan them out for a visually appealing presentation.
4. Spoon on the salsa: Generously spoon the mango avocado salsa over the shrimp and quinoa/rice. Don’t be shy – this is where the flavor explosion happens!
5. Add optional toppings: Now for the finishing touches! If desired, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes, sesame seeds, and/or a drizzle of sriracha mayo. I love the added crunch and flavor these toppings provide.
6. Serve immediately: Serve the shrimp avocado mango bowl immediately and enjoy! This bowl is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado can brown over time.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or a drizzle of sriracha to the bowl.
• Add black beans: For extra protein and fiber, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the bowl.
• Use different fruits: Feel free to experiment with other fruits in the salsa, such as pineapple, papaya, or strawberries.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the shrimp with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
• Meal prep friendly: You can prepare the components of this bowl ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the shrimp, salsa, and quinoa/rice separately in the refrigerator.
• Grilling the shrimp: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Sriracha Mayo: To make sriracha mayo, simply combine mayonnaise with sriracha sauce to taste. Start with a small amount of sriracha and add more until you reach your desired level of spiciness. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This shrimp avocado mango bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of tortilla chips or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a potluck gathering. I often make it for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It’s also a great option for entertaining, as it’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Storage Instructions:

While this bowl is best enjoyed fresh, you can store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container. Store the mango avocado salsa in a separate airtight container, pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Store the cooked quinoa or rice in another airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the bowl as directed.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fiber: 10-15g

This Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowl is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowl isn’t just a recipe; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite. The sweetness of the mango perfectly complements the creamy avocado and the succulent shrimp, all brought together by a zesty lime dressing. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying – a true weeknight winner that feels like a gourmet treat. I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, and here’s why you absolutely must give it a try.

First and foremost, the balance of flavors is simply divine. The sweetness of the mango, the richness of the avocado, and the savory shrimp create a symphony on your palate. The lime dressing adds a bright, tangy note that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a dish that’s both refreshing and filling, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Beyond the taste, this bowl is packed with nutrients. Shrimp is a great source of protein, avocado provides healthy fats, and mango is loaded with vitamins. It’s a meal you can feel good about eating.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or a few slices of jalapeño to the bowl. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, grilled chicken or tofu would be excellent substitutes. You could also add other fruits and vegetables, such as pineapple, cucumber, or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Grain Power: Serve over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a heartier meal.
* Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce cups.
* Taco Time: Use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas.
* Spice it Up: Add a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an extra layer of flavor.
* Herby Goodness: Garnish with fresh cilantro, mint, or basil for added freshness.

I’ve made this shrimp avocado mango bowl countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the perfect dish to impress your friends and family, or simply to treat yourself to a delicious and healthy meal. It’s also incredibly easy to scale up or down, depending on how many people you’re serving.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor combination? Share your photos and comments in the section below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowl! I can’t wait to see what you create!

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