Save A vibrant, flavor-packed bowl featuring spicy blackened shrimp, creamy avocado corn salsa, and fluffy rice with a Southwestern twist. This fresh meal is satisfying and easy to prepare for dinner or lunch.
I first made this dish for a weeknight meal when craving something bright and bold. The combination of smoky shrimp and tangy salsa quickly became a family favorite—now it's a regular at our table.
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
- Season 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 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.
- Prepare Salsa:
- In another bowl, gently combine avocado, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with blackened shrimp and a generous scoop of avocado corn salsa.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Save Serving these bowls always draws everyone to the kitchen. It's a colorful meal that both kids and adults dig into, especially with a squeeze of lime on top.
Required Tools
Large skillet; Medium mixing bowls; Chefs knife; Cutting board; Measuring spoons
Allergen Information
Contains shellfish (shrimp). Naturally gluten-free; verify packaged ingredients if sensitive. Double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 390 calories, 15 g fat, 39 g carbohydrates, 25 g protein.
Save This bowl is packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy with your favorite crisp beverage for a complete experience.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you get shrimp perfectly blackened?
Use a hot skillet and evenly coat shrimp with paprika and spices. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side to achieve a charred exterior.
- → Can I substitute rice in the bowl?
Yes, try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or other grains for a lighter or low-carb base.
- → What makes the salsa creamy?
Diced ripe avocado blends with lime juice and corn to give the salsa a creamy texture and fresh taste.
- → Are there gluten-containing ingredients?
The dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check packaged ingredient labels to ensure safety.
- → How spicy is the finished bowl?
Cayenne and jalapeño add heat, but amounts can be adjusted or omitted for a milder flavor.
- → What wines pair well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light lager complements the bold shrimp and fresh salsa flavors nicely.