This easy spicy shrimp and avocado rice bowl is a total crowd-pleaser! It’s packed with juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and fluffy rice, all brought together with a dash of heat.
I love how colorful this bowl looks when I make it. Plus, it takes no time at all! Perfect for a quick dinner when I’m feeling lazy but still want something tasty. 🥑🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Jasmine rice gives a lovely aroma and fluffy texture, while basmati is a great alternative. If you’re looking for a whole grain, brown rice works too, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is the best, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just ensure they’re thawed before cooking. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try substituting with tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne adds a nice kick. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine or even some chipotle powder for a smoky taste. Adjust the cayenne to suit your spice level!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, mango is a tasty swap for a sweeter twist. Just keep it diced!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Rice?
Cooking rice seems simple, but it can be tricky! Follow these easy steps for great results:
- Start by rinsing the rice well to remove excess starch. This helps in preventing it from becoming sticky.
- Bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Broth will add extra flavor!
- Add the rinsed rice, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This step ensures fluffy rice.
Give it a gentle fluff with a fork before serving for the best texture!
Easy Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water or broth (for cooking rice)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Hot sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 15 minutes cooking the rice and shrimp, with a little extra time for prepping the ingredients. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; you may need to do this in batches. Remove from the heat.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
Divide the fluffy rice into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked spicy shrimp, diced avocado, and freshly chopped cilantro.
5. Serve:
Finish by serving with lime wedges to squeeze over the top. You can also top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick if desired.
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious and nutritious spicy shrimp and avocado rice bowl!
FAQs for Easy Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them under cold running water. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, quinoa or cauliflower rice makes a great substitution. Quinoa has a similar cooking method, while cauliflower rice cooks quickly—just sautĂ© it for a few minutes until tender!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat and microwave the rice and avocado separately to maintain freshness.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance! Cook the rice and shrimp ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Simply reheat and assemble just before serving for best results.
