Save 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.
I enjoyed making these bowls for my family after a summer trip to the coast. The burst of mango and the smoky shrimp made it a big hit for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
- Ripe avocados: 1 or 2, sliced
- Large ripe mango: 1, diced
- Cooked rice or quinoa: 2 cups
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges: For serving
- Plain Greek yogurt: 1/4 cup
- Mayonnaise: 1 tbsp (optional)
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Lime zest and juice: From 1 lime
- Honey or agave: 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Red onion: 1/4 cup, diced
- Jalapeño: 1 small, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 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.
- Make the lime-chili sauce:
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
- Grill the shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp dry and season 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 or 3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Add a base of cooked rice or quinoa to each bowl. Arrange grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and mango salsa on top.
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle lime-chili sauce generously over the bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Save Sharing these bowls with my kids reminded me of carefree picnic lunches on warm afternoons. It always brings us together around the table with flavors everyone enjoys.
Serving Suggestions
For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pepitas, chopped nuts, or tortilla strips over the bowls just before serving.
Protein Options
If you prefer, substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein profile.
Make Ahead Tips
All the components can be prepared ahead and kept in airtight containers for easy assembly throughout the week.
Save This meal is sure to bring a taste of sunshine to your dinner table. Enjoy every vibrant bite and the balanced textures it offers.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?
Yes, you can use grilled chicken or tofu for a similar bowl, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- → How spicy is the lime-chili sauce?
The sauce offers gentle heat from chili powder; adjust spice by reducing jalapeño or using milder chili powder.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Shrimp and rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Assemble bowls when ready to eat for freshness.
- → What other grains work besides rice?
Quinoa, farro, or brown rice make excellent bases, adding hearty flavor and texture to each bowl.
- → How can I add extra crunch?
Top bowls with toasted pepitas, chopped nuts, or tortilla strips for extra texture and flavor contrast.
- → How should the avocados be sliced?
Slice ripe avocados just before assembling to keep them fresh and avoid browning.