Name: Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ripe mango, diced; ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped; ¼ cup cucumber, diced; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; Juice of ½ lime; Salt to taste; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 large avocado, sliced; 1 cup shredded romaine or lettuce mix; Extra lime wedges for serving; Optional: drizzle of olive oil or extra chili-lime sauce

If you’re dreaming of a vibrant, fresh, and flavor-packed dish that feels like summer in every bite, then these Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are exactly what you need. Sweet mango, creamy avocado, spicy chili-lime shrimp, and crisp veggies—all layered over a bed of rice—make this bowl a standout meal for lunch or dinner.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or when you want something nutritious without sacrificing taste. Each element in this bowl complements the other, creating a well-balanced and deeply satisfying bite every time.

Why These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Are a Must-Try

What makes these bowls so special? For starters, they combine fresh tropical flavors with bold seasoning and creamy textures. You get the best of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy in a single bowl.

Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
Full of fresh, real ingredients – Nothing processed or artificial
Packed with nutrients – From protein-rich shrimp to fiber-filled avocado
Customizable – Make it your own with different grains or veggies
Meal-prep friendly – Perfect for storing and enjoying later

This bowl is for anyone who loves vibrant food and wants a satisfying yet light meal that’s packed with flavor and freshness.

What’s in a Shrimp and Avocado Bowl with Mango Salsa?

A shrimp and avocado bowl is more than just a trendy lunch idea—it’s a colorful, flavor-forward dish built with wholesome ingredients. Here’s what typically goes into the bowl:

Chili-lime marinated shrimp: Juicy, spicy, and zesty
Avocado: Creamy and rich, balances out the heat
Mango salsa: Sweet, tangy, and refreshing
Cooked rice: A neutral base to soak up all the flavors
Veggies: Like shredded lettuce, red onion, and cucumbers
Lime-chili drizzle: The final punch of flavor

Each layer is important and contributes to a mouthwatering experience that’s healthy and exciting to eat.

Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen

Every component in these bowls has a specific role, adding texture, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the core ingredients:

Raw shrimp – peeled and deveined, preferably medium-sized
Olive oil – for cooking the shrimp and adding richness
Fresh lime juice – for tang and to tenderize the shrimp
Chili powder and paprika – spices that bring smoky heat
Mango – sweet and juicy, perfect for salsa
Avocado – creamy and mild, adds a luscious texture
Red onion – a sharp bite that brightens up the bowl
Cucumber – adds crunch and freshness
Cilantro – fresh herb flavor in the salsa and as garnish
Cooked rice – white or brown, your choice

Exact Ingredient List and Measurements

To make 2–3 servings of Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce, you will need:

For the Shrimp

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup cucumber, diced
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Juice of ½ lime
Salt to taste

For the Bowl Assembly

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 large avocado, sliced
1 cup shredded romaine or lettuce mix
Extra lime wedges for serving
Optional: drizzle of olive oil or extra chili-lime sauce

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to Make This Bowl

You don’t need much to bring this bowl together. Here are the basics:

Mixing bowls (medium and small)
Sharp knife and cutting board
Non-stick skillet or grill pan
Tongs or spatula
Rice cooker or pot for rice
Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)

How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls Step by Step

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well and let sit for 10 minutes while you prep the salsa.

Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa
In a small bowl, mix diced mango, red onion, cucumber, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Add a pinch of salt to taste. Chill in the fridge while you cook the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide cooked rice between bowls. Add a handful of shredded lettuce, slices of avocado, spoonfuls of mango salsa, and the freshly cooked shrimp.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with extra lime juice or a chili-lime dressing if desired. Top with cilantro and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for Flavorful and Juicy Shrimp Every Time

Don’t overcook the shrimp – It only takes a few minutes. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Use fresh lime juice – It adds brightness and balances the heat.
Let the shrimp marinate briefly – 10 minutes is enough to infuse them with flavor.
Cook on a hot pan – For a quick sear and juicy inside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Shrimp Bowls

Skipping the marinade – Even 10 minutes adds essential flavor.
Overcrowding the skillet – This steams the shrimp instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
Using underripe mango – The salsa depends on juicy, sweet mango for contrast.
Cutting everything too early – Avocado can brown, so slice right before serving.

How to Assemble the Perfect Shrimp and Avocado Bowl

Start with a base of rice, then layer in textures and flavors:

Fluffy rice
Cool, crisp lettuce
Sweet mango salsa
Warm, spiced shrimp
Creamy avocado slices
Fresh herbs and a final squeeze of lime

Presentation matters! Try layering ingredients or serving in a deep bowl for a restaurant-style look.

Serving Suggestions & Bowl Presentation Tips

These bowls are stunning as-is, but you can dress them up even more:

Serve in wide, shallow bowls for visual appeal
Add toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips for crunch
Include a spicy lime yogurt drizzle or tahini-lime dressing on the side
Top with microgreens or extra cilantro for a gourmet touch

Pair it with a cold sparkling water or iced tea for a refreshing, balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Properly

Store ingredients separately in airtight containers for best texture
Keep shrimp refrigerated for up to 2 days
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave until just warmed through
Avoid reheating avocado and mango salsa—assemble fresh before eating

Meal prep tip: Prepare rice, shrimp, and salsa ahead, then slice avocado fresh each day.

Healthy Variations and Recipe Substitutes

Want to tweak the recipe? Here are a few healthy swaps:

Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb base
Try grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of shrimp for a vegetarian version
Add black beans or corn to the salsa for extra bulk
Swap mango for pineapple or peach if that’s what you have on hand

This bowl is incredibly flexible—use what’s fresh and seasonal.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Notes (If Needed)

The recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Just double-check that your chili powder or spice blends contain no hidden additives. If you want creaminess, add a dairy-free lime crema made with cashew or coconut yogurt.

Nutritional Benefits of Avocado, Shrimp, and Mango

This bowl is more than tasty—it’s packed with nutrients:

Shrimp: High in protein and low in fat, plus a great source of selenium and vitamin B12
Avocado: Loaded with heart-healthy fats, potassium, and fiber
Mango: Rich in vitamin C, A, and antioxidants

Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and natural sugars.

FAQs About Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Yes! Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

What’s the best type of shrimp to use?
Medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp work best. You can use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild heat from chili powder, but you can adjust by adding more or less spice.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious char and smoky flavor.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Summery Bowl

These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are a perfect representation of what happens when bold flavors and fresh ingredients come together. They’re bright, zesty, filling, and adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re enjoying them on a sunny patio or prepping ahead for a quick lunch, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.

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

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If you’re dreaming of a vibrant, fresh, and flavor-packed dish that feels like summer in every bite, then these Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are exactly what you need.

Author: Lyndy kitchen
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 15
Total Time: 25
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American