Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are a vibrant, flavorful, and customizable dish that combines tender, juicy shrimp with fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, spicy mayo drizzle. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a healthy and satisfying lunch, this dish offers a balance of protein, carbs, and veggies that’s both filling and delicious. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors, crave a little spice, or just want a quick and nutritious meal, this recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile option for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of savory shrimp, creamy spicy mayo, and tangy soy-based seasoning makes each bite irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Balanced: High in protein, with plenty of fresh vegetables and customizable rice options.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores and reheats well, making it ideal for pre-planned meals.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful presentation, with fresh toppings and a drizzle of spicy mayo, makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 430
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice, sushi rice, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• Pinch of salt

For the Spicy Mayo:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for spice level)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

For the Vegetables and Toppings:

• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sliced cucumber
• 1 cup edamame (cooked and shelled)
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for drizzling)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

• Cook the rice: Prepare 2 cups of rice according to the package instructions. For added flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
• Season the rice: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, ½ teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Cover to keep warm while preparing the shrimp and other components.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

• Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.
• Sear the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo

• Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your desired spice level. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables and Toppings

• Slice and dice: Slice the avocado, cucumber, and green onions. Shred the carrots if not pre-shredded.
• Cook edamame: If using frozen edamame, cook according to the package instructions (typically by steaming or boiling for 3-5 minutes).

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

• Layer the base: Divide the seasoned rice evenly among four bowls.
• Add the shrimp: Top each bowl with a generous portion of cooked shrimp.
• Add vegetables: Arrange the avocado slices, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and edamame around the bowl.
• Drizzle with spicy mayo: Drizzle the spicy mayo over the shrimp and vegetables.
• Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro on top. Drizzle with a little soy sauce or tamari for extra flavor, if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the Shrimp Rice Bowls immediately while the rice and shrimp are still warm. Encourage guests to mix the ingredients for the perfect bite of flavor and texture.

Ingredient Background

• Shrimp: A lean source of protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for this dish.
• Jasmine Rice: A fragrant, fluffy rice that complements the bold flavors of the shrimp and spicy mayo. For a healthier option, brown rice or quinoa can be used.
• Spicy Mayo: Made with sriracha, sesame oil, and lime juice, this creamy sauce ties the dish together with a spicy, tangy kick.
• Edamame: High in protein and fiber, edamame adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of green to the bowl.
• Cucumber and Carrots: Provide freshness and balance to the richness of the shrimp and spicy mayo.

Technique Tips

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp work best for this recipe. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
• Cook Rice Ahead: Save time by cooking the rice ahead of time and reheating it before assembling the bowls.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent rubbery texture.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less sriracha in the mayo and gradually increase to taste.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shrimp Sushi Bowl: Use sushi rice and add nori strips or pickled ginger for a sushi-inspired version.
• Low-Carb Shrimp Bowl: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage for a keto-friendly option.
• Shrimp Taco Bowl: Add black beans, corn, and tortilla strips for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Plated Style: Arrange the ingredients on a large platter, with the shrimp in the center and the vegetables and rice arranged around it for a family-style presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables, make the spicy mayo, and cook the rice ahead of time to streamline the process.
• Double the Sauce: Spicy mayo is a hit—make extra and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great as a dip or dressing for other dishes.
• Use a Nonstick Skillet: A nonstick skillet prevents the shrimp from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Recipe Variations

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl: Replace the spicy mayo with a garlic butter drizzle for a rich and comforting version.
• Vegan Shrimp Bowl: Substitute the shrimp with marinated tofu, tempeh, or plant-based shrimp alternatives.
• Pineapple Shrimp Bowl: Add fresh pineapple chunks or grilled pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Peanut Sauce Bowl: Swap the spicy mayo for a homemade peanut sauce to change up the flavor profile.
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl: Instead of pan-searing, grill the shrimp for a smoky, charred flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftover components (shrimp, rice, vegetables, and sauce) separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Shrimp Gently: Reheat shrimp in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing Shrimp: Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Brown Rice: Brown rice is higher in fiber and nutrients than white rice.
• Reduce Mayo: Use Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise for a lighter sauce.
• Add More Veggies: Increase the amount of fresh vegetables, such as shredded cabbage, radishes, or bell peppers, for extra nutrients.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the salt content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Party: Serve the Shrimp Rice Bowls with a side of miso soup and a light salad for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Pack the shrimp, rice, and vegetables into separate compartments of meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches.
• Self-Serve Bowl Bar: Set up a station with rice, shrimp, vegetables, and toppings, allowing guests to build their own bowls.

Special Equipment

• Rice Cooker: Ensures perfectly cooked rice every time with minimal effort.
• Nonstick Skillet: Ideal for cooking shrimp without sticking or overcooking.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing vegetables and preparing toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• 2. What kind of rice works best? Jasmine rice, sushi rice, or brown rice are great options, but you can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice.
• 3. How can I make this spicier? Increase the sriracha in the spicy mayo or add red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning.
• 4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, cook the shrimp, rice, and spicy mayo ahead of time and assemble the bowls just before serving.
• 5. How do I keep the avocado fresh? Squeeze a little lime or lemon juice over the avocado slices to prevent browning.
• 6. Can I substitute the shrimp? Absolutely! Try chicken, tofu, or salmon as alternatives.
• 7. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
• 8. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store the components separately in the fridge to keep them fresh and avoid soggy rice.

Conclusion

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a dish to impress at a gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its balance of savory shrimp, fresh vegetables, and creamy, spicy sauce, this bowl is a true crowd-pleaser. Try it today and customize it to your taste—you’ll love the burst of flavors in every bite!

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