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:
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1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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2 ripe avocados
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1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
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1/2 red onion, finely diced
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1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
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1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (optional, for extra heat)
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Juice of 2 limes
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp chili powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
For the Lime-Chili Sauce:
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1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 tsp chili powder
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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Salt to taste
How to Prepare:
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Prepare the Shrimp:
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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.
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Cook the Shrimp:
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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.
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Prepare the Mango Salsa:
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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.
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Make the Lime-Chili Sauce:
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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.
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Assemble the Bowls:
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Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Slice each half into wedges.
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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.
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Garnish:
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For an added touch, garnish the bowls with a few cilantro leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra burst of flavor.
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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:
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Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference:
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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.
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Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:
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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.
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Customize the Heat:
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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.
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Experiment with Substitutes:
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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.
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Serve Immediately:
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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.
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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!