Sweet & Savory Shrimp Mango Avocado Bowl

Name: Sweet & Savory Shrimp Mango Avocado Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tropical-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1-2 ripe avocados, sliced; 1 large ripe mango, diced; 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine) or quinoa; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges, for serving; ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess); 1 tsp chili powder; Zest and juice of 1 lime

Hi I'm Benjamin

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on March 17, 2025

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There’s something magical about the way certain flavors come together—how a dish can instantly transport you somewhere warm and vibrant, where the food is as bright and refreshing as the setting. I first discovered the combination of shrimp, mango, and lime on a beach vacation, where I had a simple but unforgettable seafood bowl from a small seaside café. The sweetness of the mango, the bold citrusy zing of lime, and the perfectly spiced shrimp created an explosion of flavors that I couldn’t stop thinking about.

When I got home, I was determined to recreate that dish, not just as a memory but as a meal I could enjoy any time I wanted to bring a little tropical warmth into my day. That’s how this Zesty Lime-Chili Shrimp & Mango Power Bowl was born. It’s a refreshing, balanced, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s easy to make but feels like something special every time you take a bite.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s light yet filling, bold yet balanced, and nutritious without sacrificing flavor, this bowl is for you.

Why This Power Bowl is a Game-Changer

1. A Burst of Balanced Flavors

One of the best things about this dish is how each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing the others:

The shrimp is coated in a smoky chili-lime seasoning that adds just the right amount of heat.
The mango provides a naturally sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the spice.
The avocado adds a creamy texture that ties everything together.
The lime-chili sauce enhances every bite with a tangy, cooling effect.

Every mouthful is a mix of warm and cool, soft and crunchy, spicy and sweet, making this bowl incredibly satisfying.

2. Packed with Nutrients and Protein

This isn’t just a flavorful dish—it’s a nutrient powerhouse:

Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in calories, making it a great choice for muscle recovery and overall health.
Mango is loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting immunity and skin health.
Avocado provides healthy fats that keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Quinoa or rice serves as a great complex carbohydrate, offering fiber and long-lasting energy.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a quick yet satisfying lunch.

4. Customizable for Different Diets and Preferences

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adjust to different dietary needs:

Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or cashew-based sour cream in the sauce.
Make it low-carb: Swap the rice or quinoa for cauliflower rice or a bed of leafy greens.
Make it vegetarian: Replace shrimp with grilled tofu, tempeh, or even jackfruit.

A Fresh and Flavorful Bowl Packed with Vibrant Ingredients

For the Bowl:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1-2 ripe avocados, sliced
1 large ripe mango, diced
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine) or quinoa
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving

For the Lime-Chili Sauce:

¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tsp chili powder
Zest and juice of 1 lime

Directions: Bringing the Perfect Balance of Spice, Creaminess, and Freshness

1. Prepare the Lime-Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise (if using), chili powder, lime zest, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice or quinoa among serving bowls. Top with shrimp, diced mango, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro.

4. Drizzle & Serve

Drizzle the lime-chili sauce over the bowl and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrusy freshness.

Nutritional Breakdown: A Well-Balanced, Protein-Rich Meal

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 450mg

This Zesty Lime-Chili Shrimp & Mango Power Bowl is a perfect combination of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it an easy yet impressive meal for lunch or dinner!

The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Shrimp can be incredibly delicious or disappointingly rubbery, depending on how it’s cooked. Here are a few key tips for getting perfectly tender, flavorful shrimp every time:

1. Don’t Overcook It

Shrimp cooks fast—usually in 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make it tough and rubbery. As soon as the shrimp turns pink and opaque, it’s ready.

2. Season Generously

Shrimp has a mild flavor, so seasoning is essential. The lime juice, chili powder, and zest in this recipe infuse the shrimp with bold, bright flavors that make it stand out.

3. Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp

If fresh shrimp isn’t available, high-quality frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking (place it in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes).

What Makes This Lime-Chili Sauce So Good?

The lime-chili sauce is what brings everything together. It’s creamy, tangy, a little spicy, and incredibly easy to make. Here’s why it works so well:

1. The Creamy Base

Using Greek yogurt or sour cream makes the sauce smooth and rich, while still being light and refreshing.

2. The Perfect Zing from Lime

Both the lime zest and juice add a bright, citrusy kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce and enhances the shrimp’s flavor.

3. A Touch of Spice

A little chili powder gives just enough heat without overpowering the other flavors. If you like extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Best Ways to Serve This Power Bowl

This dish is already a complete meal, but there are plenty of ways to customize and serve it differently:

1. As a Classic Power Bowl

Enjoy it as a nourishing bowl meal, where everything is layered on top of quinoa or rice for a balanced and satisfying dish.

2. As Tacos

Turn this recipe into lime-chili shrimp tacos by serving the shrimp, mango, avocado, and sauce inside warm corn tortillas.

3. As a Salad

Skip the grains and serve everything over a bed of mixed greens or shredded cabbage for a light and refreshing salad.

4. As a Wrap

Use a large tortilla or lettuce leaves to create a shrimp and mango wrap for a handheld, on-the-go meal.

FAQs About This Zesty Shrimp Bowl

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the shrimp, prepare the sauce, and chop the mango and avocado ahead of time. Store everything separately and assemble when ready to eat.

2. How long does the shrimp last in the fridge?

Cooked shrimp stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

3. Can I use frozen mango?

Yes! Just thaw frozen mango before using, and it will work just as well as fresh.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

5. What’s the best substitute for shrimp?

For a vegetarian version, grilled tofu, tempeh, or sautéed mushrooms make great alternatives.

6. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! Just keep the shrimp, grains, sauce, and fresh toppings stored separately to keep everything fresh until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts: A Dish That Feels Like a Vacation in a Bowl

This Zesty Lime-Chili Shrimp & Mango Power Bowl is a meal that brings bright, bold flavors together in the best way possible. It’s fresh, satisfying, and packed with protein and nutrients, making it the perfect choice for a healthy, delicious meal any day of the week.

If you love meals that are vibrant, refreshing, and easy to make, this power bowl will quickly become a favorite. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is actually incredibly wholesome—a true win-win for anyone who loves good food that fuels the body and soul.