Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

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There are some dishes that just feel like a summer vacation in a bowl, and this is one of them. The Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce are packed with vibrant colors, juicy tropical flavors, and just enough spice to make your taste buds dance. Each bite layers together tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and the bright, sweet tang of fresh mango salsa. And the drizzle of zesty lime-chili sauce? That brings it all together in the most refreshing way.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or an impressive dinner to serve friends, this bowl delivers on both flavor and style. It’s quick to prepare and endlessly satisfying, especially when warm shrimp meets cool, creamy avocado in one spoonful. You won’t miss the carbs here either — it’s all about the textures and natural freshness of each ingredient.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Avocado Bowl

This bowl hits all the right notes: juicy, grilled or sautéed shrimp, paired with buttery avocado, and the brightness of ripe mangoes in a salsa that tastes like sunshine. The chili-lime sauce gives a little kick, but it’s balanced with citrusy tang so it doesn’t overwhelm. It’s a great way to eat light while still feeling full and nourished. And it comes together fast, perfect for weeknight meals or impromptu dinner guests.

It’s also naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable. Want to add some rice or greens? Go for it. Need to swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu? No problem. You’ll still get the core flavors that make this dish so addictive.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Look for medium to large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for ease. Fresh is great, but frozen works perfectly too — just make sure to thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking. Tail-on shrimp can look pretty for presentation, but tail-off makes it easier to eat with a fork.

If you can, go for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor. And don’t skip the seasoning step. A quick toss in garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of chili powder brings out their natural sweetness and gets them ready for the spotlight in this bowl.

Ingredients for the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

This recipe is all about fresh, bold ingredients that come together in a colorful, vibrant way. Each component brings something essential: creaminess, crunch, sweetness, or heat. When combined, the result is a balanced and craveable bowl you’ll want to make on repeat.

• Shrimp
• Avocado
• Mango
• Red onion
• Cilantro
• Jalapeño
• Lime
• Chili powder
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Salt
• Black pepper

The shrimp are the protein star, offering a light, sweet flavor. Avocado adds creaminess and richness, balancing the tangy elements. Mango brings a juicy, tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with heat. Red onion gives crunch and sharpness, while cilantro adds a fresh herbal lift. Jalapeño is for those who like a gentle kick. Lime, chili powder, olive oil, and honey form a quick lime-chili dressing that brightens and ties everything together. Finally, salt and black pepper enhance all the natural flavors.

How To Make the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Season the shrimp with a mix of olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and slightly charred. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mango Salsa

In a bowl, combine diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Add a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt. Toss well and chill until ready to use.

Step 3: Whisk the Lime-Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 4: Slice the Avocados

Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and slice into thin wedges or cubes. Keep them fresh by squeezing a little lime juice on top.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Start with a base of rice or greens (optional), then layer on the shrimp, avocado, and a generous spoonful of mango salsa. Drizzle the lime-chili sauce over everything and finish with extra cilantro if desired.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the shrimp. It only takes a few minutes per side for them to turn pink and firm up. Leaving them on the heat too long makes them rubbery, which is easy to avoid if you keep an eye on the pan.

Another misstep is skipping the seasoning. Shrimp, though flavorful, need a little help to really shine. A simple mix of olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper goes a long way.

When making mango salsa, taste your mango first. If it’s under-ripe, it might be too firm or tart, which throws off the balance. You want that perfectly sweet mango bite to contrast the spice.

Lastly, be careful with the lime. A good squeeze brightens everything, but too much can overpower the more delicate flavors like avocado and shrimp.

How to Serve and Store These Bowls

These shrimp and avocado bowls are best served fresh, ideally just after you’ve cooked the shrimp and assembled the mango salsa. The textures and temperatures create a contrast that’s key to their appeal. This recipe comfortably feeds 2 to 3 people, depending on portion sizes.

If you’re prepping ahead, store each component separately in airtight containers. The shrimp should be refrigerated and eaten within 2 days. The mango salsa will stay bright and fresh for up to 3 days, though it’s best on day one. Avocado should be sliced just before serving to avoid browning, but if needed, you can store it with a bit of lime juice pressed tightly under plastic wrap.

What to Serve With Shrimp and Avocado Bowls?

Coconut Rice

The gentle sweetness of coconut rice complements the lime and chili flavors perfectly.

Black Bean Salad

A protein-packed side that adds earthy notes and extra fiber.

Tortilla Chips

Crunchy and salty, they’re great for scooping up extra mango salsa.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Charred corn brushed with lime butter enhances the summer vibe.

Cilantro-Lime Quinoa

A light and fluffy option that brings more herby brightness.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness plays off the chili-lime notes.

Cucumber Salad

Cool and crisp, it refreshes the palate between bites.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Sweet and salty with a hydrating kick that pairs wonderfully with the spice in the bowl.

Want More Bowl Ideas Bursting with Flavor?

If you love these shrimp and avocado bowls, here are more nourishing and delicious recipes you should definitely try:

• Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe with a creamy, spicy kick.
• Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Dinner Recipe for a protein-rich and heart-healthy option.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach if you’re craving something creamy and comforting.
• Grilled Cheese Burrito Recipe for a cozy, melty, flavor-packed bowl alternative.
• Healthy Sausage Veggie Skillet Meal that’s super quick and family-friendly.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest healthy meals board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add a grain base or skip it? How spicy did you go with the chili sauce?

Share your twists in the comments and let’s swap some ideas.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting bowls and fresh dishes on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite meal to brighten up the week.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce deliver fresh flavors with minimal effort. They’re quick, bright, and balanced, perfect for any season but especially welcome on warm days. With juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, sweet mango, and that irresistible zing of lime and chili, this bowl has all the flavors you love in one place. It’s a keeper, and definitely one to come back to again and again.

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