Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that feels special without too much fuss, these Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are just the ticket! This recipe has become one of my go-to favorites for busy weeknights and casual family gatherings. The combination of tender shrimp, vibrant veggies, and that creamy spicy mayo brings so much flavor to your dinner table. Plus, it’s all made in one bowl, making clean-up a breeze!

What I love most is how customizable this dish is; whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, it adapts beautifully. You can whip it up in about 25 minutes, making it perfect when you want something satisfying but don’t have all evening to spend in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a flavorful meal in under half an hour.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves shrimp! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its tasty ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the shrimp and spicy mayo ahead of time for an even faster meal on busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh veggies and zesty mayo makes each bite a burst of flavor that feels like summer on a plate.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your flavorful Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo:

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Spicy Mayo

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cucumber slices
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
• Soy sauce or tamari for drizzling (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken or tofu instead!
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in whatever vegetables you love—bell peppers or snap peas would be great additions.
• Change the grains: Not in the mood for rice? Quinoa or cauliflower rice work beautifully here!
• Enhance the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like chipotle mayo or even a yogurt-based sauce for a lighter twist.

How to Make Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until well combined. This creamy sauce adds a delightful kick to your bowls and balances out the freshness of the veggies. Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your heat preference!

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in your shrimp along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque. Cooking them just right ensures they stay tender and juicy—no one likes rubbery shrimp!

Step 3: Assemble Your Bowls

Start by layering cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. Then top with sautéed shrimp followed by shredded carrots, avocado slices, cucumber slices, and chopped green onions. Drizzle with soy sauce or tamari if desired—it adds another layer of flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Drizzle with Spicy Mayo

Finally, don’t forget that amazing spicy mayo! Drizzle generously over your bowls before serving. It not only enhances the flavor but also gives each bowl a lovely finish that’s hard to resist.

Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo—perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Making shrimp rice bowls can be a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix! This allows you to tailor the heat level to your preference, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
• Perfectly cooked rice: Whether you choose jasmine or brown rice, ensure it’s fluffy and well-cooked. Using a rice cooker can help achieve consistent results every time.
• Customize your toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Adding ingredients like radishes or edamame can introduce new flavors and textures, making each bowl unique and exciting.
• Make it ahead: If you’re short on time, prep the spicy mayo and veggies in advance. This way, when you’re ready to eat, all you have to do is cook the shrimp and assemble your bowls!

How to Serve Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Serving shrimp rice bowls is an opportunity to showcase your culinary creation beautifully. Here are some ideas that will impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens up the dish.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice enhances all the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Pickled ginger: This tangy addition provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the spicy mayo.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steaming broccoli preserves its vibrant color and crunch while providing a nutritious complement to your meal.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a soothing balance alongside your flavorful rice bowl, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Asian slaw: A refreshing mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing can add a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy shrimp bowls.
• Edamame pods: Simple yet satisfying, steamed edamame is packed with protein and makes for an easy finger food side that everyone loves.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo will not only taste fantastic but also look gorgeous on any dining table! Enjoy creating this delicious meal that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week, making healthy eating a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the shrimp rice bowls to cool completely before storing.
• Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep the spicy mayo separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the cooked shrimp and rice into freezer-safe containers.
• Store for up to 2 months.
• Consider freezing the spicy mayo separately if you want it fresh upon defrosting.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stir well and add more spicy mayo or soy sauce if desired after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo that might help you out!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for even seasoning.

How can I make my Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo spicier?

To add extra heat, increase the amount of sriracha in your spicy mayo mixture or sprinkle additional cayenne pepper over your bowls.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

Can these Shrimp Rice Bowls be made without rice?

Absolutely! You can serve the shrimp and veggies over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even leafy greens for a low-carb option.

How long do Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo last in the fridge?

They will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delightful Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo! This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create something delicious that brings warmth and flavor into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to try it out—your taste buds will thank you!