Easy Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes, these Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa are about to become your new favorite go-to. Perfectly seasoned shrimp, creamy avocado, and a zesty mango salsa combine to create a bowl that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a quick dinner, or something refreshing to impress guests, this recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Fresh and Vibrant: Bright ingredients like mango and avocado make every bite pop with flavor and color.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins to keep you feeling great.
• Versatile Meal: Great for meal prep, family dinners, or even casual entertaining.
• Gluten-Free and Light: A naturally gluten-free meal that’s light but incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but essential, contributing texture, taste, and vibrant color. The fresh shrimp brings protein and a subtle sweetness, while avocado delivers creamy richness. Mango salsa adds a zesty, tangy sweetness that brightens everything up beautifully.

• Fresh shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for quick and easy cooking without any fuss.
• Ripe avocados: Creamy and buttery, they balance the acidity of the salsa perfectly.
• Mango: Choose a ripe but firm mango for a sweet, juicy burst of flavor.
• Red onion: Finely chopped for a bit of crunch and mild bite.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds an herbal, slightly citrusy note that livens up the salsa.
• Lime juice: Essential for that bright, tangy kick that ties the salsa together.
• Olive oil: For cooking shrimp to a juicy finish and adding richness to the bowl.
• Salt and pepper: To season and bring out all the natural flavors in the dish.
• Optional: cooked quinoa or rice: Adds some wholesome carbs if you want a more filling meal.

Variations for Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize to your tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to swap, add, or omit ingredients to create your perfect bowl every time.

• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the mango salsa for some heat.
• Vegetarian option: Replace shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas to keep it plant-based and protein-rich.
• Grains or greens: Serve over arugula, spinach, or cooked farro for extra texture and nutrition.
• Texture play: Toss in some toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed nuts for a satisfying crunch.
• Herb swaps: Use fresh mint or basil instead of cilantro for a different fresh flavor profile.

How to Make Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Salsa

Start by peeling and dicing the mango into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion and cilantro, then combine everything in a bowl. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with a pinch of salt, then stir gently to blend all the flavors. Set aside to let the salsa marinate and develop its vibrant taste.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp juicy and tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Avocados

Peel and slice the ripe avocados just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Keep the slices thick enough to hold their texture but thin enough to meld seamlessly with the other ingredients.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

In each serving bowl, start with a base of cooked quinoa, rice, or leafy greens if using. Arrange the cooked shrimp and sliced avocado on top. Spoon generous amounts of mango salsa over everything, letting the colors and flavors shine. Add extra cilantro or a lime wedge for an optional garnish.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

• Choose ripe mangoes: A perfectly ripe mango makes all the difference in sweet, juicy salsa.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook just until pink and firm to avoid dry, rubbery texture.
• Prep salsa in advance: Making the mango salsa ahead lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Use fresh lime juice: Bottled lime juice lacks the bright, fresh flavor essential for this dish.
• Serve immediately: Avocado browns quickly, so assemble the bowls right before eating.

How to Serve Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a few thinly sliced scallions on top for extra freshness and a pop of color. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of a chili-lime dressing can add creaminess and zing.

Side Dishes

Pair the bowls with a side of crispy tortilla chips for scooping up salsa, or a light cucumber salad to keep the meal refreshing and crunchy. Grilled corn on the cob or roasted sweet potatoes also complement the tropical flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bowls in colorful stoneware to highlight the vibrant ingredients, or even in hollowed-out mango halves for an eye-catching presentation. Layer the ingredients in a mason jar for a portable lunch option that looks just as tasty as it is convenient.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the shrimp, mango salsa, and avocado separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This prevents the avocado from browning and the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for the avocado or salsa as it changes their texture, but cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.

Reheating

Gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet or microwave just until warmed through to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating the avocado and mango salsa; serve them fresh for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the components separate and assemble the bowls fresh to maintain the best quality and freshness.

Can I substitute the mango in the salsa?

You can swap the mango for pineapple or peach for a different sweet, tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the avocado and shrimp.

How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?

Keep the avocado slices separate until serving and toss them with a little lime juice to slow oxidation and browning.

What should I serve with Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa?

Fresh sides like tortilla chips, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables complement the bowls nicely, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Shrimp & Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa offer a delightful combination of fresh, zesty, and creamy flavors that come together quickly for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe brings brightness and ease to your table—give it a try and watch it become a new favorite!

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