Introduction
Immerse yourself in a vibrant array of flavors with these Zesty Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowls, a delightful dish that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a nutritious yet satisfying meal, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and a refreshing cilantro lime sauce, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined – 450 grams
Olive oil – 15 ml
Chili powder – 5 grams
Cumin – 2 grams
Garlic powder – 1 gram
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice (white or brown) – 480 grams
Ripe avocado, diced – 1
Cherry tomatoes, halved – 120 grams
Red onion, thinly sliced – 60 grams
Chopped cilantro – 15 grams
For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:
Sour cream or Greek yogurt – 120 ml
Chopped cilantro – 15 grams
Lime juice – 30 ml
Water – 15 ml
Salt – 1 gram
Pinch of black pepper
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Prepare the shrimp by tossing them in a medium bowl with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. For the cilantro lime sauce, whisk together the sour cream (or yogurt), cilantro, lime juice, water, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
4. Assemble the bowls by dividing the cooked rice among four bowls. Top with cooked shrimp, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
5. Drizzle each bowl generously with cilantro lime sauce.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your zesty and refreshing shrimp and avocado rice bowls!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, take the peeled and deveined large shrimp and toss them with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the shrimp are well-coated with the spices, which will lend a delicious warmth and savory depth to the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a vibrant pink color and are cooked through. The shrimp should be tender, juicy, and fragrant. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped cilantro, lime juice, water, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and infused with the fresh smell of cilantro, creating a perfect complement to the shrimp and avocado.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls, creating a fluffy base. Top each bowl generously with the zesty cooked shrimp, followed by the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Sprinkle with additional chopped cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Step 5: Drizzle with Sauce
Take the vibrant cilantro lime sauce and drizzle it generously over each bowl. The creamy sauce will meld with the ingredients, adding a delightful tang and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the bowls immediately, enjoying the delicious contrast of flavors and textures. Each bite promises to be refreshing, zesty, and satisfying—perfect for a light meal any day of the week!
Notes
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference
For the best flavor, use fresh cilantro and ripe avocados. The freshness of these ingredients elevates the entire dish.
Adjust to Your Preferences
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Rice Variability
You can use either white or brown rice based on your preference. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can also be great alternatives for a different texture.
Storage Recommendation
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the sauce separate for best flavor.
Optimize the Meal Prep
For a quicker preparation, you can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, allowing you to whip up this meal in no time!
Cook techniques
Marinating Shrimp
Toss the shrimp with olive oil and spices to enhance flavor before cooking. This step infuses the shrimp with zesty seasoning and ensures a delicious result.
Skillet Cooking
Use a large skillet over medium-high heat to cook the shrimp quickly. This method ensures even cooking and preserves the shrimp’s tenderness.
Whisking Sauce
For a smooth cilantro lime sauce, whisk the ingredients together in a bowl. This technique combines flavors effectively, creating a creamy and tangy dressing.
Assembling Bowls
Layer the bowls starting with rice and adding the shrimp and toppings. This method helps maintain visual appeal and allows for easy mixing during eating.
Drizzling Sauce
Generously drizzle the cilantro lime sauce over each assembled bowl for added flavor. This enhances the overall experience and ties the dish together.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.
What type of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice are suitable for this recipe. Choose based on your preference for flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the avocado?
You can substitute avocado with other toppings such as sliced cucumber or additional vegetables if desired.
How spicy is the dish?
The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of chili powder used in the shrimp marinade.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the cilantro lime sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just give it a good stir before using.
Conclusion
These Zesty Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowls with Cilantro Lime Sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a perfect choice for a quick and nutritious meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, they are not only easy to prepare but also packed with fresh ingredients that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a standalone meal or serve it at gatherings to impress your guests with its colorful presentation and zesty flavor!
Quinoa and Black Bean Bowls
Swap out rice for quinoa and add black beans for a protein-packed vegetarian option. Top with avocado, corn, and a zesty lime dressing for an irresistible flavor combination.
Chicken Fajita Bowls
Use grilled or sautéed chicken seasoned with fajita spices in place of shrimp. Combine with bell peppers, onions, and tortilla strips, topped with a creamy cilantro-lime sauce for a hearty meal.
Grilled Salmon and Avocado Bowls
Substitute shrimp with grilled salmon for a heart-healthy alternative. Add roasted asparagus and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette to enhance the freshness of the dish.
Mango and Shrimp Salad Bowls
Incorporate fresh mango chunks and mixed greens with the shrimp. Add a tangy vinaigrette dressing to elevate the sweetness of the mango and the savory shrimp.
Tofu and Vegetables Rice Bowls
For a vegetarian twist, use marinated and stir-fried tofu in addition to a medley of your favorite vegetables. Toss with the cilantro lime sauce for added flavor.
Spicy Shrimp and Pineapple Bowls
Add diced pineapple for a sweet and spicy shrimp bowl. A touch of sriracha in the cilantro lime sauce will create a zesty kick to complement the flavors.
