Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that bursts with flavor, try making Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce. This recipe has become a family favorite in my home because it combines succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and the sweet tanginess of mango salsa. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress.

What I love most about these bowls is how customizable they are. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Plus, it’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a vibrant meal ready to enjoy!
• Healthy and wholesome: Packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients like shrimp and avocado.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the flavors, and it’s easy to adjust the spice levels.
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings or grains.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make extra for lunch the next day; it tastes just as good!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients makes cooking so much fun! The components for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are simple yet full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bowls:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 –2 ripe avocados (sliced)
• 1 large ripe mango (diced)
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

For the Lime-Chili Sauce:

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp honey or agave
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 diced mango
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• 1 small jalapeño (finely chopped, optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 –2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can explore:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for different flavors.
• Add more veggies: Toss in black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or add some hot sauce to the lime-chili sauce.
• Change the grain: Use farro or barley instead of rice or quinoa for a hearty twist.

How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa

Start by making your mango salsa. Mixing diced mango with red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt creates a refreshing topping that brightens up each bowl. Letting it chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce

Next, grab a bowl to whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), chili powder, lime zest and juice, honey, salt, and pepper. This zesty sauce brings an exciting kick to your dish! Taste as you go; adjusting seasoning ensures every bite is just right.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Now it’s time to cook those shrimp! Pat them dry before seasoning with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heating a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat means they will sear perfectly—just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred. This step adds great flavor!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

In each bowl, start with a base layer of cooked rice or quinoa. Then top generously with those beautifully grilled shrimp, sliced avocado, and your homemade mango salsa. It’s all about building layers of flavor here!

Step 5: Drizzle with Lime-Chili Sauce

Finally, drizzle that luscious lime-chili sauce over everything. Garnish your bowls with chopped cilantro and serve alongside fresh lime wedges. Enjoy immediately—this is when everything tastes its best!

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Creating these vibrant shrimp and avocado bowls can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp will provide a sweeter taste and firmer bite.
• Perfectly Ripe Avocados: Use avocados that are slightly soft to the touch for the best creaminess. This will enhance the overall texture of your bowls and balance the other flavors beautifully.
• Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño in your mango salsa according to your spice preference. This way, you can control how mild or spicy your dish will be.
• Chill Your Salsa: Letting your mango salsa sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious and refreshing taste.
• Make it a Meal Prep Dream: Prepare extra portions of rice or quinoa and store them in individual containers for easy meal prep. This makes it convenient to whip up these bowls on busy weeknights.

How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

These shrimp and avocado bowls are as much about presentation as they are about flavor! Serve them up beautifully, and watch everyone dig in with delight.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: Adding lime wedges not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows everyone to add an extra zing of freshness to their bowl.
• Sliced Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes offer a pop of color and crunch, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside some crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy avocado and zesty salsa.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad mixed with corn, bell peppers, and lime juice provides a hearty side that pairs perfectly with shrimp.
• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add depth and nutrition while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette makes for a nutritious side that balances well with the richness of avocado.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making it a breeze to assemble a quick, healthy meal whenever you’re hungry.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover components in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• The shrimp can be kept for up to 2 days, while the avocado is best consumed fresh.
• Keep the lime-chili sauce and mango salsa separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re cooled before transferring to freezer-safe bags.
• Avoid freezing the avocado and mango salsa as they don’t maintain their texture well when thawed.

Reheating

• To reheat the shrimp, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• Avoid reheating avocado; simply slice fresh avocado just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mango salsa, lime-chili sauce, and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your bowls.

What can I substitute for shrimp in Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce?

If you prefer a different protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas work wonderfully. You could also use tofu for a plant-based option that complements the flavors beautifully.

How do I keep avocado from browning in my Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce?

To prevent browning, you can squeeze some fresh lime juice on the sliced avocado before serving. This not only keeps it vibrant but adds an extra zing!

Can I use other fruits for salsa instead of mango?

Yes! Pineapple or peach make excellent alternatives for a fruity salsa that pairs well with shrimp. Feel free to experiment based on what’s in season or what you enjoy most!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce as much as I do! This dish is not just bursting with flavor but also offers a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress. Whether served at a gathering or as part of your meal prep routine, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!