A Tropical Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
If you’re looking for a vibrant, nourishing, and flavor-packed meal that feels like summer in a bowl, this Shrimp & Avocado Bowl with Mango Salsa and Zesty Lime-Chili Sauce is a must-try. It’s refreshing yet satisfying, with the sweetness of mango, the creaminess of avocado, the zing from lime, and the savory kick from grilled shrimp. This dish brings together a medley of colors, textures, and flavors that hit every note of a perfect meal.
This recipe is ideal for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this bowl never fails to impress. Best of all, it’s customizable, wholesome, and can be made in under 30 minutes!
 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Nutritious and Balanced: With lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich grains, it’s a complete meal.
-
Gluten-Free Friendly: Use tamari or gluten-free alternatives where needed.
-
Customizable: Easy to tweak based on dietary preferences or available ingredients.
-
Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare components ahead and assemble when needed.
-
Bursting with Flavor: Each component adds depth and contrast, from spicy shrimp to tangy salsa.
 Ingredients
For the Bowls:
-
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
-
1 large ripe mango, diced
-
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
-
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
-
Lime wedges, for serving
For the Lime-Chili Sauce:
-
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
-
1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
Zest and juice of 1 lime
-
1 tsp honey or agave
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
-
1 cup diced mango
-
¼ cup diced red onion
-
1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
1–2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
-
Salt, to taste
 Instructions
 Step 1: Make the Mango Salsa
-
In a medium bowl, combine:
-
1 cup diced mango
-
¼ cup diced red onion
-
1 finely chopped jalapeño (optional)
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
1–2 tbsp chopped cilantro
-
A pinch of salt
-
-
Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated in lime juice.
-
Refrigerate to let the flavors meld while you prepare the rest of the dish.
 Step 2: Prepare the Lime-Chili Sauce
-
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
-
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
-
1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
Zest and juice of 1 lime
-
1 tsp honey or agave
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
-
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside in the fridge to chill.
 Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
-
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
-
In a bowl, season shrimp with:
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
Salt and pepper
-
-
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
-
Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side or until pink and slightly charred. Do not overcook.
-
Remove from heat and set aside.
 Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
-
Start by placing ½ cup of cooked rice or quinoa into each bowl.
-
Arrange the grilled shrimp on one side of the bowl.
-
Add sliced avocado next to the shrimp.
-
Spoon the mango salsa onto another section of the bowl.
-
Drizzle the lime-chili sauce generously over the entire bowl.
 Step 5: Garnish & Serve
-
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top.
-
Add a lime wedge on the side for extra zest.
-
Serve immediately and enjoy this tropical delight!
 Preparation Time
-
Prep time: 20 minutes
-
Cook time: 5–7 minutes
-
Total time: ~25–30 minutes
 Calories
-
Approximate Calories: ~430 kcal per serving
(Based on a 4-serving yield and standard ingredients. This may vary based on exact measurements and substitutions.)
 Pro Tips for the Perfect Bowl
-
Marinate Your Shrimp
For extra flavor, let the shrimp marinate in lime juice and minced garlic for 15 minutes before cooking. -
Make It Spicier
Love heat? Add a splash of hot sauce or extra chili powder to the yogurt dressing. -
Lower-Carb Option
Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb/keto-friendly version. -
Meal Prep Friendly
Store the cooked shrimp, mango salsa, sauce, and grains separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving. -
Use Fresh Ingredients
Freshly squeezed lime juice, ripe avocados, and sweet mango make all the difference in flavor. -
Try Grilled Pineapple
Swap mango or add grilled pineapple for a smoky-sweet variation.
 Variations & Additions
-
Add Beans: Black beans or edamame for more protein and fiber.
-
Change the Grain: Try farro, bulgur, or brown rice.
-
Use Chicken: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein.
-
Add Crunch: Crushed tortilla chips, roasted chickpeas, or pumpkin seeds for texture.
 Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to be served as-is, but here are some ideas for turning it into a full meal spread:
-
Starter: Cucumber lime salad or guacamole with veggie sticks.
-
Side: Grilled corn on the cob or tortilla soup.
-
Drink: Sparkling lime water, mango smoothie, or a light white wine.
 Storage & Reheating
-
Shrimp: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
-
Mango Salsa: Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 1–2 days.
-
Rice/Quinoa: Store separately and reheat before assembling.
-
Sauce: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze assembled bowls, as the avocado and salsa do not freeze well.
 Final Thoughts
This Shrimp & Avocado Bowl with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests. With endless ways to adapt and personalize it, this bowl is a go-to favorite that brings vibrant, tropical flavors to your table in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch, a light dinner, or a creative meal prep option, this bowl delivers on all fronts—flavor, texture, and satisfaction.