Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the sea and the creamy richness of ripe avocados. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I can assure you that this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty spices, and fresh ingredients creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and refreshing.
This dish has its roots in coastal cuisines, where seafood is a staple and avocados are celebrated for their health benefits. People adore the Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl for its incredible taste and texture; the tender shrimp paired with the smooth avocado creates a mouthwatering experience. Plus, it’s a convenient meal that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend brunch. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice, if preferred)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, feta cheese, or a dollop of sour cream
Preparing the Shrimp
- Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures they sear nicely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp.
Cooking the Shrimp
- While the shrimp are marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give the shrimp a nice sear.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip them over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover them with foil to keep warm.
Preparing the Quinoa
- If you haven’t cooked the quinoa yet, rinse 1/2 cup of quinoa under cold water. This helps to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.
- After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving.
Preparing the Veggies
- While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes in half and finely chop the red onion. If you’re using fresh corn, you can cut the kernels off the cob; if using frozen or canned, just drain and rinse them.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Add the lime juice, cumin, black pepper, and salt to the veggie mixture. Toss everything together until well combined. This fresh salsa will add a burst of flavor to your bowl.
Assembling the Bowl
- Now that everything is prepared, it’s time to assemble your spicy shrimp avocado bowl!
- Start by placing a generous scoop of quinoa at the bottom of each bowl. This will be the base of your dish.
- Next, take half of an avocado and slice it into thin wedges. Place the avocado on one side of the bowl.
- On the other side, add a portion
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game with a burst of flavor and nutrition. This dish not only combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the creamy richness of avocado, but it also packs a punch with its spicy seasoning, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this bowl is sure to be a hit. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl with a side of cilantro-lime rice or a fresh garden salad to complement the flavors. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, or even swapping out the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped up your Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any modifications you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print
Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe to Try Today
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Spicy Shrimp Avocado Bowl is a vibrant and healthy dish featuring marinated shrimp served over quinoa, topped with fresh veggies and creamy avocado. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep!
Ingredients
- cooked shrimp
- fresh veggie mixture
- sliced jalapeños (optional)
- feta cheese (optional)
- sour cream (optional)
- cayenne pepper (to taste)
- grilled tofu or chickpeas (for vegetarian option)
- quinoa
- avocado
Instructions
- Add a generous scoop of the fresh veggie mixture on top of the cooked shrimp.
- Finally, garnish with any optional toppings you desire, such as sliced jalapeños, feta cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious spicy shrimp avocado bowl!
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper.
- This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that any additional toppings or ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
