Save It A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring spicy blackened shrimp, creamy avocado corn salsa, and fluffy rice—a fresh and satisfying meal with a Southwestern twist.
I first made this blackened shrimp bowl for a weeknight dinner when craving something light yet bursting with color. The combination of spicy shrimp and cooling salsa instantly won over my family.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp + 1/4 tsp (divided)
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Avocado: 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- Cherry tomatoes: 1/2 cup, quartered
- Red onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced
- Fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp, chopped + extra for garnish
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional)
- Lime juice: Juice of 1 lime
- Rice: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (hot)
- Lime wedges: For serving
Instructions
- Season Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Salsa:
- In another bowl, gently combine avocado, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with blackened shrimp and a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Save It One weekend, my kids helped toss the shrimp with spices, giggling as the colors changed. We all sat together and squeezed extra lime on top for a tangy finish—it is now a favorite dinner for us.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately: Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 39 g, Protein: 25 g.
Recipe Variations
Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to lower carbs, or add black beans and shredded lettuce for enhanced texture and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this bowl with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager to complement the bold flavors. A fresh fruit salad also rounds out the meal.
Save It This vibrant bowl comes together in 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights. Customize your toppings for endless flavor options!
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I achieve the best char on shrimp?
Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook shrimp in a single layer for even searing.
- → Can I substitute another protein for shrimp?
Yes, chicken or tofu works well. Season and cook similarly for a tasty alternative.
- → Is this meal suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just ensure packaged goods follow safe guidelines.
- → What’s the best rice for the base?
Both white and brown rice are great. For more nutrition, try quinoa or cauliflower rice as a base.
- → How spicy is the bowl?
It has a moderate heat from cayenne and jalapeño. Adjust both to taste for milder or bolder flavor.
- → Can the salsa be made ahead?
Yes, combine salsa ahead but add avocado and lime just before serving to keep it fresh.
- → What beverage pairs well?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light lager complements the vibrant, spicy flavors beautifully.