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

As a baker, I love experimenting with flavors that bring together freshness and boldness in one bowl. Shrimp and avocado are two ingredients that work wonders when paired together. The natural sweetness of shrimp, combined with the creamy texture of avocado, creates the perfect balance. But what truly elevates this dish is the vibrant mango salsa and the zesty lime-chili sauce, which adds a burst of flavor to each bite.

This shrimp and avocado bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a light meal or a refreshing lunch. The mango salsa adds a tropical twist, and the lime-chili sauce provides just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something fresh and satisfying, this dish is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to prepare this flavorful bowl that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat!

Ingredients + How to Bake

For the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients to bring this dish together. The combination of shrimp, avocado, and vibrant mango salsa is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)

  • 2 ripe avocados

  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced

  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced

  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

  • 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (optional, for extra heat)

  • Juice of 2 limes

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1/2 tsp chili powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)

For the Lime-Chili Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

  • Salt to taste

How to Prepare:

  1. Prepare the Shrimp:

    • Start by seasoning the shrimp. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

  2. Cook the Shrimp:

    • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the heat and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Mango Salsa:

    • In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and the juice of one lime. Toss gently to combine. Season with salt to taste. This fresh salsa will be a bright and zesty topping for your shrimp and avocado bowls.

  4. Make the Lime-Chili Sauce:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. This creamy sauce will add a spicy, tangy kick to the dish.

  5. Assemble the Bowls:

    • Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Slice each half into wedges.

    • In each bowl, place a few slices of avocado, then add a portion of the grilled shrimp on top. Spoon the mango salsa over the shrimp and drizzle the lime-chili sauce generously over the top.

  6. Garnish:

    • For an added touch, garnish the bowls with a few cilantro leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra burst of flavor.

This dish is light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to assemble. The combination of shrimp, avocado, mango salsa, and lime-chili sauce is truly irresistible!

How Long to Bake… (How to Store Leftovers) (Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls)

How Long to Bake:

This dish doesn’t actually require any baking! The shrimp are quickly cooked on a grill pan or skillet for just 2-3 minutes on each side. This ensures they remain tender and juicy, without overcooking. The most time-consuming part of this recipe is marinating the shrimp for about 10 minutes, which allows the flavors to soak in. Once your shrimp are cooked and your salsa is prepped, the assembly takes just a few minutes, making this a quick and satisfying meal.

How to Store Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. For best results, store the shrimp separately from the avocado and mango salsa. The avocado may brown slightly after being stored, but it will still taste fresh. The shrimp can be reheated in a skillet or microwave for a few seconds, though I recommend enjoying the mango salsa and shrimp fresh for the best flavor.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowls:

  1. Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference:

    • To get the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and ripe avocados. Fresh shrimp will have a slightly sweet, delicate flavor, while ripe avocados add a creamy richness that balances the heat of the chili-lime sauce.

  2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:

    • The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is to avoid overcooking them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done! Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and dry, so be mindful of the cooking time.

  3. Customize the Heat:

    • If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra jalapeño to the mango salsa or increase the cayenne pepper in the lime-chili sauce. Conversely, you can leave out the jalapeño if you want a milder version of this dish.

  4. Experiment with Substitutes:

    • While shrimp are the star of this dish, you can easily swap them for grilled chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives pair beautifully with the mango salsa and lime-chili sauce.

  5. Serve Immediately:

    • For the best texture, serve the shrimp and avocado bowls right away. The freshness of the ingredients is what makes this dish so vibrant, so assembling the bowls just before serving will ensure everything stays crisp and flavorful.

With these tips, you’ll have the perfect shrimp and avocado bowls every time. They’re quick, healthy, and full of flavor – the ideal meal for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering!

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


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  • Author: Lena Meeli
  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 23 servings 1x

Description

These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a vibrant and refreshing meal that’s both quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Juicy grilled shrimp, creamy avocado, zesty mango salsa, and a bold lime-chili drizzle come together for a balanced and colorful dish. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a light gathering, these bowls are sure to impress.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Bowls:

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)

  • 2 ripe avocados

  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced

  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced

  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

  • 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)

  • Juice of 2 limes

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1/2 tsp chili powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos

For the Lime-Chili Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

  • Salt to taste


Instructions

  • In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

  • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.

  • In another bowl, combine mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (optional), and lime juice. Season with salt.

  • For the sauce, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.

  • Slice avocados and arrange in bowls. Add cooked shrimp and spoon mango salsa on top. Drizzle with sauce.

  • Garnish with extra cilantro or chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu if desired.

  • Add extra jalapeño for more heat.

  • To avoid browning, slice avocado just before serving.

  • Store leftovers in separate containers for best texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes, or you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.

  1. What type of avocado is best for this dish?

The best avocado for this dish is a ripe Hass avocado, which has a creamy texture and rich flavor. When selecting avocados, gently squeeze them to check for ripeness. They should yield slightly to pressure, but not feel mushy. If you don’t plan to serve the dish immediately, you can leave the avocado slightly firm to avoid browning.

  1. Can I make the mango salsa in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mango salsa in advance! It can be made up to 4 hours before serving. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to make the salsa fresh, as the mango can become too soft over time.

  1. What can I substitute for the lime-chili sauce?

If you prefer a different sauce, you can substitute the lime-chili sauce with a simple cilantro-lime dressing or a creamy avocado dressing. For a spicier version, you could also mix sour cream with hot sauce or even use a store-bought chili-lime dressing. Just be sure to adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

These FAQs should help clarify any questions you might have while preparing your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce. Enjoy making this vibrant and flavorful dish!

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