Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce are your tropical escape in a bowl—without the plane ticket or the tiny pretzels. If you’ve been craving something light but still totally satisfying, this bowl brings the heat (thanks, chili sauce), the sweet (hey there, juicy mango), and all the creamy, zesty, grilled goodness your dinner table needs. And bonus: it’s on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re juggling a work meeting, soccer practice, or the eternal question of “what’s for dinner?”—this shrimp bowl is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed.
Somewhere between healthy and indulgent, with layers of crunch, creaminess, and bold flavor, this recipe just gets it. Shrimp and avocado bowls with mango salsa and lime-chili sauce are perfect for anyone who’s tired of boring lunches or sad desk dinners. Once you try it, you’ll be mentally booking a vacation every time it hits your taste buds. Let’s dive into this bowl of color, flavor, and total happiness.
Table of Contents
What is Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce?
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce are vibrant, protein-packed, flavor-loaded grain bowls that combine sweet, spicy, creamy, and smoky elements in one comforting yet fresh meal. At the heart of this dish are grilled shrimp marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt for a savory-smoky flavor. Then there’s avocado, bringing that buttery richness that balances out the zing of lime juice and the kick of chili sauce.
Layered over a fluffy bed of cooked rice and topped with a refreshing mango salsa, this bowl covers all your flavor bases. The mango salsa is no afterthought—it’s a juicy, slightly tangy mix of ripe mango, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and lime. Drizzled with a creamy, zippy lime-chili sauce made from Greek yogurt or mayo, this bowl eats like a salad met a burrito bowl at a beach party. It’s simple to make but totally restaurant-worthy, and ideal for meal prepping, casual weeknight dinners, or impressing that one friend who “doesn’t really like seafood”—until now.
Reasons to Try Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce
Let’s be real—meal fatigue is a thing. If you’ve ever looked at a frozen meal and sighed like you just read a plot twist you saw coming, this recipe is your refresh button. First off, shrimp cooks ridiculously fast. You’re looking at six minutes of grill time, which, in dinner math, is basically “done already.” Add to that avocado’s creamy comfort and mango’s sweet brightness, and you’ve got a balanced bowl that actually excites your taste buds. The lime-chili sauce? It’s the zesty cherry on top. These bowls are endlessly customizable—swap rice for cauliflower rice if you’re feeling lighter, or toss in red cabbage or romaine for crunch (like in our Crispy Rice Salad).
Plus, if you’ve got picky eaters or varying spice preferences, it’s easy to adjust. You control the heat, the toppings, and the portions. And let’s not forget: this dish is pretty. Instagram-worthy even. Bright colors, layers, textures—it’s a bowl that’s as photogenic as it is satisfying. Quick, customizable, and wildly delicious? That’s a solid yes.
Ingredients Needed to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice (divided)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayo
- 1 tbsp chili sauce or sriracha
- 2 cups cooked rice
Optional but delicious: thinly sliced red cabbage or shredded romaine for extra crunch.
Instructions to Make Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make shrimp and avocado bowls with mango salsa and lime-chili sauce from start to finish. Follow along to create a dish that’s bold, bright, and completely satisfying. Let’s go bowl-building.
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This quick marinade helps the shrimp soak up flavor fast. Let them sit for 15 minutes—just enough time to prep the other elements. If you’re meal prepping, you can marinate earlier in the day and refrigerate, which deepens the flavor even more. Pro tip: If you like a smoky edge, add a dash of smoked paprika. Shrimp marinated and ready? On to the next layer.
Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa
While the shrimp rests, combine your diced mango, chopped tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice in a small bowl. This is where the sweetness and brightness come in. Mix it gently so the mango doesn’t mush—unless you like it that way (no judgment). Chill this salsa in the fridge while everything else comes together. It gets better the longer it sits, so this is also a great make-ahead component. If mango’s not your thing, try this pineapple salsa twist for a fun variation.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
Time to turn up the heat. Preheat your grill or a stovetop grill pan to medium-high. Grill the marinated shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re opaque, slightly charred, and totally irresistible. You’ll know they’re done when they curl into a gentle “C” and have grill marks. If you don’t have a grill, a hot skillet works just as well. Just don’t overcook—they go from juicy to rubbery real fast. Need grilling tips? Check out our Grilled Spicy Mexican Chicken Tostadas for heat-handling guidance.
Step 4: Make the Lime-Chili Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayo with the remaining 1 tablespoon lime juice and 1 tablespoon of chili sauce or sriracha. Want it spicier? Add more sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne. Want it dairy-free? Use vegan mayo. This sauce is creamy, zesty, and gives the bowl its final punch of personality. It’s also great on tacos, sandwiches, or as a dip for veggie sticks, so consider doubling the batch.
Step 5: Build Your Bowls
Now comes the fun part—assembly. Start with a base of 2 cups cooked rice. Then artfully (or messily, whatever your style is) arrange the grilled shrimp, avocado slices, and chilled mango salsa on top. Finish with a generous drizzle of your lime-chili sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, top with extra cilantro or a lime wedge. Want to make it more filling? Throw in some Tortellini Pasta Salad on the side. Or keep it light and breezy with just a cold drink and a napkin.
What to Serve with Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce
These bowls are kind of a complete meal on their own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or want to make dinner feel a little extra, here are some ideas. Start with a crunchy salad like our Zesty Italian Pasta Salad to keep things light and refreshing. Want to go heartier? A side of Garlic Butter Beef and Spinach Tortellini brings a comforting contrast. For drinks, a citrusy sparkling water or even a chilled rosé would work wonders. And for dessert? Keep the tropical theme going with Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites or a scoop of mango sorbet. You can also turn the main dish into a party platter—serve components taco-bar style so everyone builds their own bowl.
Key Tips for Making Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce
Want shrimp that’s flavorful, juicy, and just the right amount of charred? Let it marinate for the full 15 minutes (or longer if possible). Don’t overcook the shrimp—2–3 minutes per side is plenty. For creamy avocado that doesn’t brown too fast, slice it right before serving and squeeze a little lime juice over the top. Use ripe mango—it should give slightly when pressed and smell sweet near the stem. Want to add crunch? A handful of shredded cabbage under the shrimp does the trick. And don’t skip the sauce—it ties the whole thing together. If making ahead, keep components separate until ready to serve. Store salsa in the fridge, sauce in a jar, and reheat rice and shrimp just before assembly. And one more tip? Make extra shrimp. You’re going to want leftovers.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce
Got leftovers? You’re in luck—this recipe holds up pretty well if stored smartly. Store each component separately in airtight containers: shrimp, mango salsa, lime-chili sauce, avocado, and rice. Shrimp will stay good in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave until just warm—don’t overdo it. The rice can be microwaved with a splash of water and covered with a damp paper towel to stay fluffy. Mango salsa is best fresh but will last 1–2 days refrigerated. Avocados tend to brown, so slice fresh when ready to eat. Sauce? That baby will hang tight for up to 5 days. Meal prepping? Pack everything except avocado and sauce; add those right before serving for maximum freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely—just thaw them first and pat dry before marinating.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is customizable. Use mild chili sauce for gentle heat or kick it up with sriracha or cayenne.
Can I make it low-carb?
Totally. Swap rice for cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes! Just go easy on the chili sauce and let kids build their own bowls.
Can I grill indoors?
Yes! A grill pan or hot skillet works great if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
How can I make it vegan?
Substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas, and use dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce are more than just pretty—they’re fast, fresh, and flavor-packed. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish delivers tropical vibes with a side of ease. It’s flexible enough to adjust to your dietary needs, bold enough to make your taste buds dance, and simple enough to whip up on a weeknight without breaking a sweat. Want more vibrant bowl meals? Check out our Best Loaded Potato Taco Bowl or Easy Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff. Next time you’re tempted by takeout, remember—you’ve got this bowl in your back pocket. Tropical dinner dreams? Delivered.
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PrintShrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa and Lime-Chili Sauce – Fast, Fresh & Delicious
These Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are bursting with flavor and texture—from smoky grilled shrimp and creamy avocado to sweet mango salsa and a zesty chili-lime drizzle. A tropical, balanced dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 bowls
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice (divided)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayo
- 1 tbsp chili sauce or sriracha
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions
1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine diced mango, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice to make the mango salsa. Chill until ready to use.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Set aside.
5. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt or mayo with the remaining 1 tbsp lime juice and chili sauce to make the lime-chili sauce.
6. Assemble bowls by layering cooked rice at the bottom.
7. Top with grilled shrimp, avocado slices, and mango salsa.
8. Drizzle with lime-chili sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
Marinate shrimp in advance for deeper flavor and quicker meal prep.
For added crunch, layer red cabbage or romaine under the shrimp.
Use dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo to keep this recipe dairy-free.
Adjust the amount of chili sauce for more or less spice.
Best served fresh, but components can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
