If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, refreshing meal that bursts with flavor and comes together in a snap, the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe is your new best friend. This dish perfectly balances tender, juicy shrimp with creamy avocado and a zesty, sweet mango salsa that wakes up your taste buds. It’s like a tropical vacation in a bowl—full of color, texture, and freshness that makes every bite feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe comes from a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work together beautifully. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s adding creaminess, brightness, or just the right touch of spice to make the flavors pop.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and tastes amazing with just a bit of seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a perfect sear on the shrimp while adding smooth, rich flavor.
- 1 avocado, diced: Adds creamy texture and a buttery richness that complements the tangy salsa.
- 1/2 cup mango, diced: Brings juicy sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the bowl.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Gives a sharp, crisp bite that balances the sweetness of mango.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped: Lends a fragrant, herbal freshness to the salsa.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Provides a lively citrus zing that pulls all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance every element.
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional): A cozy base to soak up all the delicious juices if you want something more filling.
How to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This creates the perfect environment for your shrimp to develop a lovely golden exterior. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque—quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step 2: Prepare the Mango Salsa
While the shrimp cooks, combine diced mango, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This mango salsa is the heart of the dish, bringing together sweet, tangy, and aromatic notes that complement the shrimp perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowls
If you want to add some extra substance, start layering your bowl with cooked rice. Next, add the cooked shrimp followed by diced avocado for that creamy touch. Finish by spooning the bright mango salsa on top, creating a colorful, irresistible presentation that’s as enticing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe immediately to enjoy the fresh, bold flavors at their peak. This dish shines brightest when everything is fresh and vibrant, so dig in and savor each bite!
How to Serve Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like extra cilantro leaves or a few lime wedges not only enhances the appearance but also invites your guests to customize their flavors. A sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of creamy yogurt sauce can take the bowl to another level, adding a hint of heat or cooling creaminess.
Side Dishes
These bowls are pretty complete on their own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider pairing with a crisp green salad or some grilled corn on the cob. Light tortilla chips also make a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for scooping up any leftover mango salsa.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe in colorful mason jars for picnics or bite-sized portions on lettuce cups for a refreshing appetizer. The vivid colors make it perfect for entertaining or impressing a dinner guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the shrimp, avocado, and mango salsa separately in airtight containers to keep each ingredient fresh. Avocado tends to brown quickly, so squeeze a little extra lime juice over it before sealing to keep it bright and tasty for up to 24 hours.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, especially because fresh mango salsa and avocado don’t freeze well. However, you can freeze cooked shrimp on its own for up to three months and thaw when ready to transform into a quick meal again.
Reheating
Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until just warmed through—overcooking will make them rubbery. Be sure to add fresh avocado and mango salsa after reheating to keep that vibrant freshness intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking for the best texture and even cooking.
Is it necessary to include rice in the bowls?
Rice is optional but highly recommended if you want a more filling meal. Feel free to swap it for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different twist.
How spicy is the mango salsa?
This version of mango salsa is mild and refreshing. You can easily add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat.
Can I prepare the mango salsa in advance?
Yes, the salsa can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
No worries! You can substitute fresh parsley or basil for a different kind of herbal note that still complements the dish well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe that makes it a favorite in my kitchen and hopefully soon in yours too. It’s quick, colorful, and packed with flavors that celebrate freshness with every bite. Give it a try next time you want an easy meal that feels like a little celebration on your plate—you won’t regret it!
Print
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and refreshing shrimp and avocado bowl featuring succulent pan-seared shrimp paired with creamy avocado and a vibrant mango salsa. Perfect for a light yet flavorful meal in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
Mango Salsa
- 1/2 cup mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the mango salsa: In a small bowl, combine diced mango, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to create a fresh and zesty salsa.
- Assemble the bowls: If using, place cooked rice as the base in serving bowls. Then add the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, and top with the prepared mango salsa.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the shrimp and avocado bowls immediately to enjoy the fresh and bold combination of flavors.
Notes
- For a lower-carb dish, omit the rice or substitute with cauliflower rice.
- You can use frozen shrimp; just be sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the salsa for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best bright citrus flavor.
- Can be served as a light lunch or dinner option.
