Description
This Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl is a quick and flavorful meal featuring perfectly seasoned shrimp sautéed with a smoky chili spice blend, served atop fluffy rice and topped with fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Finished with a refreshing drizzle of lime juice and optional creamy tang from sour cream or Greek yogurt, it’s an easy, satisfying dish ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice Bowl Toppings
- 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Finishing Touches
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- Hot sauce (optional for extra spice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in olive oil and then coat them evenly with the spice mixture to ensure a flavorful crust when cooked.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
- Assemble the Rice Bowl: Divide the cooked rice evenly into serving bowls. Layer the cooked shrimp on top, then artfully arrange avocado slices, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro over the shrimp and rice.
- Drizzle with Lime and Sauce: Squeeze fresh lime juice generously over each bowl to add brightness. Optionally, add a drizzle of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess and a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat, depending on your preference.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the rice bowls while the shrimp are still warm for the best flavor and texture. This meal is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and serves 2 people.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spiciness level.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the sour cream or Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Leftover shrimp and toppings can be stored separately and assembled fresh to maintain texture.
- Try adding other fresh vegetables like cucumber or radish for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
