Blackened Shrimp Avocado Bowl

A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring spicy blackened shrimp, creamy avocado corn salsa, and fluffy rice—a fresh and satisfying meal with a Southwestern twist.

This dish quickly became a favorite at our family dinners, everyone loving the mix of smoky spice and cool salsa.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Avocado Corn Salsa: 1 ripe avocado diced, 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen), 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes quartered, 1/4 cup red onion finely diced, 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, 1 jalapeño seeded and minced (optional), Juice of 1 lime, 1/4 tsp salt
• Bowl Base & Garnish: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (hot), Lime wedges for serving, Extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

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.

Step 2:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 23 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat.

Step 3:

In another bowl gently combine avocado corn cherry tomatoes red onion cilantro jalapeño (if using) lime juice and salt.

Step 4:

Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with blackened shrimp and a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa.

Step 5:

Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Pin

Sharing this bowl with family always brings joy and lively conversation around the dinner table.

Substitutions

Quinoa or cauliflower rice can replace rice to make this low-carb. Black beans or shredded lettuce are great additions for more texture.

Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager to balance smoky spices.

Storage

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp gently to avoid overcooking.

Pin

This bowl is a quick colorful meal that excites the palate and can easily become a weeknight favorite.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I achieve the perfect blackened shrimp?

Coat shrimp evenly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and spices, then cook in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until slightly charred and opaque.

→ Can I make the avocado corn salsa ahead of time?

Prepare the salsa shortly before serving to maintain avocado’s freshness and the bright flavors of lime and cilantro.

→ What rice options work best for this bowl?

Fluffy white or brown rice works well; alternatively, substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

→ How can I adjust the heat level of this dish?

Control spice by adjusting cayenne pepper quantity and including or omitting jalapeño in the salsa according to your preference.

→ What are good side pairings for this bowl?

Complement with crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc or light lagers, or add black beans and shredded lettuce for added texture and nutrients.