Description
Mexican-inspired fiesta shrimp bowl packs bold flavors with zesty lime marinade and colorful fresh ingredients. Crisp vegetables and succulent shrimp combine perfectly, inviting diners to savor each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (453.6 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups (400 g) uncooked white rice
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive or avocado oil
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) fresh chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) lime juice
- 1 (15-oz/425 g) can fire-roasted corn, drained
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (80 g) diced cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup (40 g) diced red onion
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to preferred spice level)
- Homemade creamy jalapeño ranch or store-bought cilantro ranch
Instructions
- Marinade Creation: Whisk olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne, and cilantro in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Shrimp Preparation: Blot shrimp dry with paper towels, gently coat with marinade, and refrigerate for 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Rice Cooking: Prepare white rice following package instructions, aiming for fluffy, perfectly cooked grains.
- Shrimp Searing: Heat large skillet over medium-high heat without oil. Spread marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and opaque, forming a gentle “C” shape.
- Bowl Assembly: Layer rice in serving bowls, top with red onion, cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, fire-roasted corn, and avocado slices. Arrange seared shrimp over vegetables, drizzling remaining marinade.
- Final Touches: Garnish with extra cilantro, fresh lime juice, and optional creamy cilantro ranch dressing. Serve immediately while ingredients are warm and vibrant.
Notes
- Marinate Smartly: Allow shrimp to rest in marinade for exactly 15 minutes to absorb maximum flavor without breaking down protein texture.
- Heat Management: Use medium-high heat to achieve perfect golden sear without overcooking delicate shrimp, which can quickly become rubbery.
- Shrimp Shape Indicator: Watch for the “C” shape when cooking – this signals perfectly cooked shrimp that’s tender and not overdone.
- Fresh Ingredient Power: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro to elevate overall dish brightness and create authentic, vibrant southwestern flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 67 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg