Name: Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Juice of ½ lime; 2 cups cooked jasmine, sushi, or basmati rice; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ripe avocado, cubed or sliced; ½ cup cucumber, sliced or diced; 2–3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion or scallion; Juice and zest of ½ lime; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 1–2 tablespoons sriracha or sweet chili sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Toasted sesame seeds; Lime wedges; Extra cilantro

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A bright, flavor-packed rice bowl loaded with spicy sautéed shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a zesty, spicy-sweet dressing. It’s quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy shrimp with smoky, spicy seasoning
Creamy avocado and fresh vegetables contrast textures
Bold, balanced dressing with heat and sweetness
Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
Great for customization—add or swap your favorite mix-ins
Perfect for meal prep—components hold well separately
Gluten-free adaptable when using tamari
Colorful and satisfying as a main or side dish
Nutrient-rich with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats
Great served warm or chilled

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lime

For the rice base:

2 cups cooked jasmine, sushi, or basmati rice, warm
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon salt to taste

For the avocado salad topping:

1 ripe avocado, cubed or sliced
½ cup cucumber, sliced or diced
2–3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion or scallion
Juice and zest of ½ lime
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the spicy dressing (optional topping):

1–2 tablespoons sriracha or sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Assembly and garnish:

Toasted sesame seeds
Lime wedges
Extra cilantro

Directions

Prepare the rice: Cook rice according to package directions. While still warm, fluff and stir in rice vinegar (and sugar/salt, if using). Set aside and keep warm.Taste and Tell+13Savoring Moments+13Facebook+13FacebookPeas and CrayonsA Latin Flair
Season & cook the shrimp: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté ~1 minute. Add shrimp and spice mixture (paprika, cumin, chili, salt, pepper). Cook shrimp ~2–3 minutes per side until opaque and just pink. Squeeze lime juice over shrimp.Savoring Moments
Make avocado salad: In a small bowl combine avocado, cucumber, onion, lime juice/zest, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.Prevention RD+1Kenna’s Cooks+1
Combine dressing (if using): Whisk together sriracha or chili sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, soy/tamari, and honey or maple syrup. Adjust heat and sweetness to taste.Savoring Moments
Assemble bowls: Divide seasoned rice between serving bowls. Top with shrimp, then avocado salad. Drizzle with spicy dressing if desired.
Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, extra cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

Serving And Timing

Servings: 3 to 4 bowls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Swap rice base for cauliflower rice or quinoa
Use shrimp alternatives like cooked chicken, tofu, or grilled fish
Add extra veggies: edamame, shredded carrots, cherry tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños
Skip sriracha and use chipotle chili in adobo for smoky flavor
Fold in mango or pineapple for a tropical twist
Replace lime juice with lemon or orange juice for different acidity
Add pickled vegetables or kimchi on the side
Use dairy-free mayo for spicy mayo drizzle
Garnish with crushed nori or seaweed flakes for umami
Add sliced jalapeño or red chili for extra heat

Storage/Reheating

Store shrimp, rice, and avocado salad separately in airtight containers in fridge for up to 3 days
Prepare spicy dressing in advance and keep refrigerated
Avocado salad is best consumed within a day to avoid browning
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling for best texture

Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl

FAQs

Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?

Yes—keep the components separate. Reheat rice and shrimp, then top with avocado and dressing just before serving.

Does the shrimp get rubbery if reheated?

To avoid this, reheat gently (low-medium skillet or short microwave bursts), just until warmed—not overcooked.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—just use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure your chili sauces are gluten-free.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Thaw fully and pat dry before cooking to achieve proper seasoning and texture.

How can I reduce the spice level?

Skip or reduce the chili or cayenne. Use mild chili sauce or omit spicy dressing entirely.

What rice is best?

Medium-grain jasmine or sushi rice is ideal, but short- or long-grain basmati, brown rice, or quinoa are great alternatives.

Will the avocado brown?

A light toss in lime juice helps prevent browning. Eat avocado salad within one day for best freshness.

Can I add extra protein?

Yes—add black beans, edamame, tofu cubes, or shredded chicken for more substance.

What can I serve besides rice?

Use salad greens or lettuce, zucchini noodles, or mix in cauliflower rice for low-carb bowls.

How should I serve it?

Serve warm with bowls layered: rice first, then shrimp, avocado salad, drizzle dressing, and garnish.

Conclusion

This Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl combines fiery seasoned shrimp, creamy avocado salad, and bright, tangy dressing over warm rice for a satisfying and vibrant meal. With simple ingredients and around 30 minutes to prepare, it’s perfect for quick dinners or healthy meal prep. Feel free to customize ingredients and spice level—this bowl delivers on texture, flavor, and nutrition every time!