Name: Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa: A Fresh Delight!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup diced mango; 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper; 1/4 cup chopped red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Juice of 1 lime

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Get ready to indulge in a burst of tropical flavors with these Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa. The succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and seasoned, is paired with creamy avocado, vibrant mango salsa, and a medley of fresh veggies. It’s a refreshing, light meal that’s perfect for a sunny day or a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a dish to impress, this bowl is packed with color, texture, and bold flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

These Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa are a game-changer for busy weeknights. They come together in just 20 minutes, making them a lifesaver when time is tight. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, they’re healthy and gluten-free, so you can feel good about serving them to your family. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Ingredients for Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa a success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavors beautifully.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the shrimp, adding richness and depth to the dish.
Garlic Powder: This adds a savory kick without the fuss of fresh garlic. It’s a time-saver!
Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika gives the shrimp a lovely color and a hint of smokiness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Avocados: Ripe avocados provide creaminess and healthy fats, making each bite satisfying.
Quinoa: This nutty grain serves as a nutritious base. You can also swap it for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different twist.
Mango: Fresh, diced mango adds a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory shrimp.
Red Bell Pepper: Diced red bell pepper brings a crunchy texture and vibrant color to the salsa.
Red Onion: Chopped red onion adds a mild bite, balancing the sweetness of the mango.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its herbaceous flavor, making it feel fresh and lively.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime juice ties everything together, adding a zesty finish.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Enjoy the process of gathering these fresh ingredients; it’s the first step to creating a delightful meal!

How to Make Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa. This process is straightforward and fun, perfect for a busy evening. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by placing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the shrimp.

Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. This step is crucial because it infuses the shrimp with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan.

Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.

Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the heat and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa

In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Gently mix everything together. The sweetness of the mango paired with the crunch of the bell pepper creates a delightful contrast.

This salsa is not just a topping; it’s a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Take a half avocado and place it in each serving bowl.

Fill the avocado halves with cooked quinoa, then top them with the sautéed shrimp.

Finally, spoon the vibrant mango salsa over the shrimp and quinoa.

Serve immediately and enjoy the colorful presentation! These Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Tips for Success

Marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Use ripe avocados for the creamiest texture.
Prep the mango salsa ahead of time for a quick assembly.
Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños to the salsa.
Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

Equipment Needed

Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
Mixing Bowls: Use medium-sized bowls for marinating and mixing ingredients.
Measuring Spoons: Handy for precise seasoning, but you can eyeball it if you prefer.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping veggies and fruits.

Variations

Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Different Grains: Swap quinoa for farro or barley for a unique texture and flavor.
Fruit Variations: Try adding diced pineapple or papaya to the mango salsa for a tropical twist.
Herb Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be used instead.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy side.
Complement with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color.
Present in colorful bowls to enhance the dish’s vibrant appeal.

FAQs about Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Can I make Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa and cook the shrimp in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowls right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?

If shrimp isn’t your thing, grilled tofu or chickpeas work wonderfully as a protein substitute. They’ll soak up the flavors beautifully and keep the dish satisfying.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the mango salsa or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the shrimp before cooking. Adjust the heat to your liking!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa are perfect for meal prep. Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Definitely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and cooking. Frozen shrimp can be just as delicious as fresh when prepared correctly.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Shrimp Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make every bite a celebration. I love how this dish transforms a simple meal into something special, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, which is a lifesaver for busy days. I hope you find as much happiness in making and sharing this recipe as I do. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and savoring every delicious moment!

“`