Healthy Shrimp Rice Bowls with Creamy Spicy Mayo

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 31, 2025

Shrimp rice bowls with creamy spicy mayo are the perfect fusion of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a nutritious lunch, or a dish that feels indulgent without the guilt, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

With juicy, well-seasoned shrimp, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a rich, spicy mayo drizzle, every bite is packed with contrast and harmony. This dish takes inspiration from Asian cuisine, particularly Japanese poke bowls and Korean rice bowls, but adds a modern twist that makes it easy to prepare at home.

Let’s dive into what makes this shrimp rice bowl a must-try dish and why it deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

Why Shrimp Rice Bowls Are a Game Changer

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the biggest advantages of shrimp rice bowls is their simplicity. Shrimp cook in minutes, and with a little prep, the entire dish comes together in less than 30 minutes. Unlike other seafood, shrimp doesn’t require lengthy marinating or complex cooking techniques, making this dish perfect for busy schedules.

2. Packed with Protein and Nutrients

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, offering essential amino acids with minimal fat. Combined with fiber-rich vegetables and rice, this dish provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy carbs, and essential vitamins. The avocado adds heart-healthy fats, while sesame seeds and green onions enhance the dish with antioxidants and minerals.

3. Customizable for Every Taste

Another great feature of this recipe is its adaptability. You can switch up the base by using brown rice, jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. The spicy mayo can be adjusted to your preferred heat level, and the toppings can be customized with your favorite vegetables or additional protein options like salmon, chicken, or tofu.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish isn’t just a one-time delight—it’s also an excellent meal prep option. By storing the rice, shrimp, and toppings separately, you can easily assemble fresh, delicious bowls throughout the week. The spicy mayo can also be stored for multiple meals, adding a bold, creamy kick to any dish.

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients List

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sriracha
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Rice Bowls:

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
½ cup shredded carrots
1 large avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For the Creamy Spicy Mayo:

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey

Step-by-Step: Bringing It All Together

1. Cook the Rice

Prepare the rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, mix in a drizzle of sesame oil and a pinch of salt.

2. Whip Up the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and honey. Adjust spice level by adding more or less sriracha.

3. Marinate and Cook the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss shrimp with soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and lime juice.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice into two bowls.
Arrange the shrimp, cucumber, carrots, and avocado on top.
Drizzle generously with spicy mayo.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Mix everything together before eating to coat the ingredients in the creamy, spicy sauce.

Power-Packed Nutrition: What’s in Your Bowl?

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	460 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	15g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	5g
Sodium	720mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

The Secret to Perfect Shrimp Rice Bowls

Choosing the Best Shrimp

To maximize flavor and texture, opt for large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw them properly under cold water before cooking. Wild-caught shrimp tend to have a sweeter, more pronounced flavor compared to farmed varieties.

Getting the Rice Just Right

Rice is the foundation of this dish, so it’s essential to prepare it well. Using a rice cooker ensures perfectly fluffy rice every time, but if cooking on the stovetop, rinsing the rice beforehand helps remove excess starch for a lighter texture. To enhance the flavor, cook the rice in broth instead of water or mix in a touch of sesame oil and rice vinegar after cooking.

Balancing Flavors in the Spicy Mayo

The creamy spicy mayo ties the entire bowl together, offering a rich, tangy heat that complements the shrimp and vegetables. A well-balanced sauce should have the right mix of creaminess from the mayo, heat from sriracha, acidity from lime juice, and a touch of sweetness from honey. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayo while maintaining a smooth consistency.

Fresh, Crunchy Toppings for Contrast

Adding fresh toppings brings a vibrant contrast to the dish. Cucumber and carrots provide crunch, while avocado adds creaminess and richness. Green onions offer a mild sharpness, and sesame seeds bring a toasty nuttiness. These textures and flavors create a dynamic eating experience where every bite is different yet harmonious.

Pairing Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal

While this shrimp rice bowl is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Miso Soup

A warm, comforting bowl of miso soup pairs beautifully with shrimp rice bowls. The umami-rich broth and soft tofu create a soothing contrast to the bold, spicy flavors of the main dish.

2. Edamame with Sea Salt

Lightly salted edamame makes a great protein-packed appetizer. The subtle nuttiness of the soybeans complements the flavors in the shrimp rice bowl without overpowering them.

3. Pickled Vegetables

Adding pickled radishes, onions, or ginger on the side introduces a tangy, slightly sweet contrast that balances the creamy spicy mayo.

4. Seaweed Salad

A side of crispy seaweed salad provides a refreshing, slightly briny flavor that pairs well with seafood dishes. Its chewy texture and sesame-infused dressing make it a great match for this bowl.

Tips for the Best Homemade Shrimp Rice Bowls

1. Use Fresh Ingredients Whenever Possible

Fresh ingredients always yield the best results. Fresh shrimp, ripe avocado, and crisp vegetables elevate the dish’s flavors and textures.

2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

3. Adjust Spice Levels to Your Preference

If you love heat, add extra sriracha to the mayo or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the bowl. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or mix the mayo with Greek yogurt to balance out the spice.

4. Store Components Separately for Meal Prep

To keep textures fresh, store the rice, shrimp, vegetables, and sauce in separate containers in the fridge. Assemble just before eating to enjoy the best flavors and consistency.

5. Experiment with Different Proteins

While shrimp is the star of this recipe, you can easily swap it out for grilled chicken, salmon, or even tofu for a plant-based version. Each protein brings a unique texture and taste, making this dish incredibly versatile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly in the pan.

2. What Type of Rice Works Best?

Jasmine rice, sushi rice, or brown rice are all great options. If you prefer a lower-carb version, cauliflower rice is a fantastic substitute.

3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Store all components separately and assemble them when ready to eat for the best texture and flavor.

4. Is This Dish Spicy?

The spicy mayo adds a mild to moderate heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.

5. How Long Do Leftovers Last?

Shrimp rice bowls are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the shrimp separately to maintain its texture.

Conclusion: A Dish You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Shrimp rice bowls with creamy spicy mayo are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. With a perfect balance of flavors, easy preparation, and endless customization options, this dish is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch, a nourishing dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this bowl will never disappoint.

Try it for yourself and discover why this shrimp rice bowl deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. A combination of freshness, spice, and creamy indulgence awaits—so grab your ingredients and start cooking!