Zesty Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowls with Cilantro Lime Sauce
A vibrant dish combining fresh shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty cilantro lime sauce served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420kcal
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined providing a juicy, meaty base
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing, adds a smooth richness
- 1 tsp smoked paprika lends a hint of warmth and smokiness
- 1 tsp garlic powder offers an aromatic foundation
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin adds an earthy depth
- 1/2 tsp chili powder for a subtle kick
- 1 juiced lime brightens the flavors
- to taste salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor
Cilantro Lime Sauce
- 1 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves fragrant herb that brings freshness
- 1 clove garlic for the sauce, amplifies the flavor
- 1/2 medium avocado creamy addition for texture and taste
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess in the cilantro lime sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil for the sauce, another layer of smoothness
- 2 juiced limes zesty acidity in the sauce
- to taste salt perfecting the sauce
- 1–2 tbsp water to reach desired consistency for the sauce
Base and Toppings
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice the comforting base of the dish
- 1 large avocado, sliced adds even more creaminess
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved sweet bursts of flavor
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion for a touch of sharpness
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained hearty protein source
- 1/2 cup corn kernels fresh or canned, sweet crunch to balance flavors
- as needed Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish final touch for presentation
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, juice of 1 lime, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture marinate for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the jasmine or brown rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.
- To make the cilantro lime sauce, add packed cilantro leaves, garlic, avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), olive oil, and juice from 2 limes into a blender. Season with salt, and add water until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
Cooking
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated shrimp. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, then remove from heat.
Assembly
- To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked rice into serving bowls, layer on the sautéed shrimp, and top with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black beans, and corn.
- Drizzle each bowl generously with the cilantro lime sauce, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a perfect marriage of flavors, allow the shrimp to marinate a bit longer if time permits. Use lime zest for an even fresher taste. Adjust the water in the sauce for desired thickness; thicker for dipping, thinner for drizzling.