If you’re craving a vibrant meal that bursts with flavor and packs a punch, you have to try this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe. It brings together succulent, perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice into one harmonious bowl. Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day or want to impress friends with something colorful and delicious, this dish hits all the right notes. The spicy shrimp married with the cool, buttery avocado makes every bite a delightful experience that lingers with just the right hint of heat and freshness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each ingredient plays a special role, adding layers of taste, texture, and color that make the dish unforgettable.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, tender and quick to cook for maximum juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the shrimp cook evenly and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or other hot sauce: Brings the perfect amount of heat and tang.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth that rounds out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a gentle garlicky punch without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice: The comforting base that soaks up all those delicious juices.
- 1 ripe avocado, diced: Creamy texture and mellow flavor to balance the spice.
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage: Adds crunch and vibrant purple color.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and a lovely bright orange hue.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Fresh, mild onion flavor to finish everything off.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: A nutty garnish that adds an irresistible crunch.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: A zesty squeeze that brightens up every element in the bowl.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the ingredients together.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by tossing your shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This simple marinade layers in bold flavor and a touch of smoky heat. Let the shrimp soak up these seasonings for about 10 to 15 minutes so every bite bursts with taste.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated shrimp. Cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side will give you shrimp that’s perfectly pink and juicy, with a nice sear on the outside. The aroma at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering and promises a delicious meal ahead.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Bowls
While the shrimp cooks, divide your cooked jasmine or brown rice between two bowls. Then, artfully arrange diced avocado, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions on top. The variety of colors and textures not only looks amazing but also adds freshness and crunch to the dish.
Step 4: Assemble and Garnish
Place the cooked shrimp on top of your vibrant bowls, drizzle with fresh lime juice, and sprinkle sesame seeds generously. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed to enhance the final flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination that this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe offers.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like extra sesame seeds or a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro can elevate the bowl’s freshness and visual appeal. A drizzle of additional sriracha or a dollop of creamy yogurt can add exciting layers and balance the heat.
Side Dishes
This rice bowl pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame. These choices add cooling textures and make the meal feel complete without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
You could serve the spicy shrimp and avocado rice bowl recipe in picnic containers for a grab-and-go lunch or build a customizable buffet with extra vegetables and toppings so everyone can personalize their bowl. Even layering everything into a mason jar makes for a visually stunning and portable meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp and rice bowls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The components keep their flavors well for up to two days, though the avocado may darken slightly over time. To keep it fresher, add the avocado just before eating.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked shrimp and rice separately, the texture of the avocado and fresh veggies won’t hold well after freezing. For best results, freeze shrimp and rice in separate containers and add fresh toppings when ready to eat.
Reheating
Reheat your shrimp and rice gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating so the shrimp stays tender and the rice fluffy. Then, add fresh avocado, vegetables, and garnishes to preserve that wonderful freshness and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the marinade flavors better.
Is there a low-carb version of this rice bowl?
Yes! You can swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both options add texture and nutrition without the extra carbs, making the bowl just as satisfying.
How spicy is the Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the sriracha, but you can adjust it easily by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your taste buds.
Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?
Definitely! Cook the shrimp and rice ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. Keep avocado and fresh veggies separate until right before serving to maintain their freshness.
What are some good protein additions for this dish?
Try adding a fried egg, edamame, or even tofu to the bowl to boost protein and add interesting textures. They also make the meal more filling and balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves big, bold flavors and colorful, wholesome meals. It’s quick to prepare, wonderfully fresh, and endlessly satisfying. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again!
Print
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and healthy Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl featuring marinated shrimp cooked to perfection and served over fluffy jasmine or brown rice, topped with fresh avocado, crunchy veggies, and a zesty lime drizzle for a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or other hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Bowl Assembly
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook to keep them tender.
- Prepare the Bowls: While the shrimp cooks, divide the cooked jasmine or brown rice between two serving bowls. Evenly distribute the diced avocado, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions on top of the rice.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked shrimp on top of the vegetables and rice in each bowl. Drizzle with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Serve the assembled spicy shrimp and avocado rice bowls immediately while shrimp is warm for the best flavors and textures.
Notes
- Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha.
- Add cucumber slices, edamame, or a fried egg for extra texture and protein.
