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Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowls are a simple yet vibrant way to bring summer flavor right into your kitchen. They are filled with juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and sweet mango layered over a cozy base of rice or quinoa. It is my go-to meal for busy weeknights when I want something both nourishing and lively without a ton of effort.
When I first tried this bowl after a long day at work it felt like a mini escape to the beach My family loved the combination so much it quickly became a top-requested dinner
Ingredients
- Shrimp: brings protein and heartiness Look for large fresh or thawed shrimp with a clean sea scent for best results
- Avocados: deliver a rich and creamy element Choose fruit that yields slightly when pressed and has no dark spots
- Mangoes: add natural sweetness ripe and fragrant mangoes give the best results and are easy to dice
- Red onion: gives a mild bite finely diced for less overpowering flavor Look for onions with shiny tight skin
- Cilantro: adds fresh zest Use bright green leaves and avoid wilted bunches for maximum vibrancy
- Lime juice: cuts the richness and keeps avocado fresh Squeeze limes that feel heavy for their size and have thin skins
- Jalapeño: brings gentle spice You control the heat by how much or little you add Remove seeds for less intensity
- Cooked rice or quinoa: forms a filling base Choose fluffy white rice brown rice or protein-rich quinoa for variety
- Olive oil: is used for marinating and cooking Look for cold-pressed extra virgin for a clean taste
- Chili powder: supplies warmth Choose a fresh bright-colored chili powder for best flavor
- Cumin: offers earthy aroma Ground cumin should be golden brown and have a strong smell
- Garlic powder: infuses savory depth Make sure yours is fresh and clump-free
- Salt and black pepper: season all the layers Use flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Optional ingredients: honey or maple syrup add subtle sweetness in the dressing Look for raw honey or pure maple
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds add crunch red pepper flakes give spice green onions offer mild bite and tortilla or wonton strips give extra crispness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Salsa:
- Start by carefully peeling and dicing ripe mangoes into small pieces Finely dice the red onion and jalapeño next always removing seeds if you want less heat Roughly chop cilantro leaves and then combine the mango onion pepper and cilantro in a mixing bowl Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything and season with a pinch of salt and pepper Stir gently allowing the salsa to sit while you continue to deepen its flavors
- Marinate and Cook the Shrimp:
- Create a marinade by mixing olive oil chili powder cumin garlic powder salt and black pepper in a bowl Add the shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly Let the shrimp rest in the marinade for fifteen minutes to soak up flavor Heat a skillet or grill pan to medium high When hot add shrimp in a single layer and cook two to three minutes per side just until pink and firm Remove the cooked shrimp and set aside so they do not overcook
- Prepare the Avocado and Rice or Quinoa:
- Dice the avocados right before assembly to keep them fresh and green Toss with a bit of lime juice if desired If you have not yet cooked your rice or quinoa follow package directions Make sure it is fluffy and not clumpy for bowl assembly
- Make the Optional Lime Dressing:
- Whisk together two tablespoons olive oil a tablespoon lime juice and a touch of honey or maple syrup with salt and pepper to taste Mix until smooth and balanced in flavor Add more juice or sweetener as you prefer
- Assemble the Shrimp Avocado Mango Bowls:
- Portion warm rice or quinoa in the bottom of serving bowls Top with diced avocado and layers of your mango salsa Arrange cooked shrimp neatly on top Drizzle with lime dressing if using Finish with sesame seeds shredded green onion or any other topping you enjoy Serve right away while everything is fresh and vibrant
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My absolute favorite thing here is the mango it adds a bright familiar comfort and my daughter always sneaks the extra pieces while I am assembling the bowls My son insists on lots of lime juice for that tangy kick so every batch becomes a fun little flavor adventure
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days Keep the avocado pit in with diced avocado to help keep it from browning and add a squeeze of lime before sealing Warm the rice and shrimp gently before reassembling bowls
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap quinoa for rice or vice versa Try pineapple or even peaches in place of mango for a twist If you do not love cilantro use fresh parsley The shrimp can be exchanged for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein
Serving Suggestions
These bowls are perfect for lunch or dinner Pair them with crispy tortilla chips or a handful of greens for extra crunch Serve family style so everyone can build their own
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Cultural and Historical Context
This bowl blends influences from Latin American coastal cuisine where mango shrimp avocado and bright citrus are staple flavors The dish reflects a tradition of mixing sweet and savory with fresh ingredients for meals that are satisfying yet refreshing
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to cook the shrimp?
Sauté the marinated shrimp in a hot skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- → Can I use a different grain besides rice or quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute cooked farro, barley, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Choose your favorite base for layering the bowl.
- → How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss the diced avocado with fresh lime juice before adding it to the bowl. This keeps the avocado looking fresh and vibrant.
- → What other toppings work well?
Try garnishing with sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, chopped green onions, or crispy tortilla strips to add extra flavor and texture.
- → Is the mango salsa spicy?
The salsa can be mildly spicy if jalapeño is added. Adjust the amount to your taste, or omit for a milder flavor.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can cook the grains and dice the mango and onion in advance. Add avocado and dressing just before serving for freshness.