Save to Pinterest A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring spicy blackened shrimp, creamy avocado corn salsa, and fluffy rice with a Southwestern twist. This fresh and satisfying main dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this blackened shrimp bowl after craving something light but packed with flavor, and it’s now a staple in our dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Avocado: 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Corn kernels: 1 cup, fresh or thawed from frozen
- Cherry tomatoes: 1/2 cup, quartered
- Red onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced
- Fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional)
- Lime juice: Juice of 1 lime
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Rice: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (hot)
- Lime wedges: For serving
- Extra cilantro: For garnish
Instructions
- Season the shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
- Prepare salsa:
- In another bowl, gently combine avocado, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt.
- Assemble bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with blackened shrimp and a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa.
- Garnish & serve:
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest My kids get excited each time this bowl hits the table, and everyone builds their own just the way they like it.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these bowls with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing light lager. Add a side of black beans, shredded lettuce, or even grilled veggies for extra texture and nutrients.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a low-carb alternative, swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Not a fan of shrimp? Try grilled chicken or tofu with the same seasoning mix.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Always verify packaged ingredients for allergens. Nutritional information per serving: 390 calories, 15g total fat, 39g carbohydrates, 25g protein.
Save to Pinterest This bowl offers vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and plenty of room for customizing to your taste.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I make shrimp perfectly blackened?
Coat shrimp evenly with spices and cook in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re opaque and slightly charred.
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp fully and pat dry before seasoning and cooking for best texture.
- → What type of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice are excellent bases. Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for lighter options.
- → Is the dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Double-check packaged goods for cross-contamination if needed.
- → How can I add more flavor to the salsa?
Grill corn before adding. Include extra jalapeño or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- → What drinks pair well?
Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager to complement the spiced shrimp and fresh salsa flavors.
- → How do I make it low-carb?
Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or lettuce for a carb-conscious, nutrient-enhanced bowl.