Save A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring spicy blackened shrimp, creamy avocado corn salsa, and fluffy rice, this Blackened Shrimp Bowl blends fresh ingredients for a satisfying Southwestern-inspired meal. Bright, zesty, and nutritious, it's perfect for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing dinner.
The first time I made this recipe, my family loved how the smoky shrimp played with the cool avocado salsa—the perfect balance of heat and freshness. It's become our go-to choice for a lively, nutritious meal when we want something a little special, but need it fast!
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, 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 of 1
- Salt (salsa): 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 the 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.
- Make the salsa:
- In another bowl, gently combine avocado, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with blackened shrimp and a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa.
- Add garnish and serve:
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Save We love serving these shrimp bowls family-style with bowls of salsa and fresh lime wedges on the side. They're fun to build together and a hit at weekend gatherings!
Required Tools
Large skillet, medium mixing bowls, chefs knife, cutting board, and measuring spoons are all you need for fuss-free prep and quick assembly.
Allergen Information
This dish contains shellfish (shrimp); it's naturally gluten-free, but always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately: 390 calories, 15 g total fat, 39 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein.
Save With its lively salsa, tender shrimp, and simple assembly, this bowl delivers taste and ease in every bite. Add your choice of garnishes and enjoy!
Recipe Help
- → How do I achieve the perfect blackened shrimp?
Coat shrimp evenly with spices and cook in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a charred surface but remain juicy inside.
- → Can I use frozen corn for the salsa?
Yes, thawed frozen corn works well and retains sweetness, maintaining the salsa’s fresh taste.
- → What rice options work best for this bowl?
Both white and brown rice provide a fluffy base, while quinoa or cauliflower rice are good low-carb alternatives.
- → How can I add more texture to the bowl?
Incorporate black beans or shredded lettuce to introduce crunch and additional nutrients.
- → What beverage pairs well with these flavors?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light lager complements the smoky spices and fresh salsa nicely.