Before diving into my blackened shrimp bowl recipe, let’s chat about pairings. This dish is a delightful concoction of flavors and textures that boasts a wonderful punch, making it enjoyable on its own.
However, to elevate the experience, consider some fantastic accompaniments. For a crunchy contrast, serve crispy tortilla chips alongside a zesty salsa. The sweetness of mango salsa perfectly complements the spiciness of the shrimp, creating a harmonious balance.
Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the shrimp. A squeeze of fresh lime can brighten the dish and tie the flavors together beautifully. Finally, if you want a zesty carb option, cilantro lime rice is the way to go.
The Blackened Shrimp Bowl: An Introduction
You’ve had a long day, the kind that makes you question your life choices about three cups into your coffee. You want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Enter the blackened shrimp bowl. It’s fast, packed with flavor, and as satisfying as a warm hug on a chilly day. I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.
What is a Blackened Shrimp Bowl?
This dish primarily comprises seasoned shrimp cooked until they’re wonderfully charred, piled on a bed of nutritious brown rice, and topped with fresh ingredients like avocado and bell peppers.
The blend of spices gives it a bold flavor that dances on your taste buds. But it’s not just about the shrimp; it’s the entire experience—the creamy toppings, the crunch from fresh vegetables, and the hearty base.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Blackened Shrimp Bowls?
Many blackened shrimp recipes rely heavily on heavy, creamy sauces. My version, however, embraces fresh and vibrant toppings, including a Greek yogurt avocado cilantro ranch dressing that adds creaminess without compromising your health goals.
The spice blend I use is well-balanced, elevating the dish without making it overly spicy. It’s like a carnival for your senses but without the chaos.
How Does It Taste?
Picture the first bite. The spicy, smoky shrimp hits your palate. Then, as you dig deeper, the creamy avocado introduces a soothing contrast.
The crunch of bell peppers adds texture, and the warm rice subtly balances the flavors. Each bite is a little adventure, taking you from coast to coast with varying textures and tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
- 1 tablespoon chili seasoning
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pound large shrimp, shell removed and deveined
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 can sweet corn, drained
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For the Greek Yogurt Avocado Cilantro Ranch:
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend
Start by mixing the chili seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and onion powder in a small bowl. This spice blend is your secret weapon for the shrimp. It’s bold but beautifully balanced.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Toss your cleaned and deveined shrimp in a bowl with the spice blend. Make sure they’re covered but don’t worry about every single shrimp being perfectly coated. The heat will work its magic.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot, almost shimmering, before adding the shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until blackened and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
At the bottom of your bowl, layer in the cooked brown rice. On top of that, add the black beans, sweet corn, blackened shrimp, diced bell peppers, and avocado slices.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, ripe avocado, cilantro, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Top your bowl with the cilantro dressing and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Take a step back and admire your work!
Tips & Tricks for Making a Blackened Shrimp Bowl
- Quality Shrimp: Don’t skimp on the shrimp quality. Fresh or frozen, just ensure they are wild-caught if possible.
- Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dry spices in advance. This can save time during the cooking process.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, just cut back on the chili seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Feel Free to Swap the Base: While brown rice is my go-to, quinoa or a bed of mixed greens works wonders too.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: The Greek yogurt ranch can be made a day ahead. It only gets better as the flavors meld.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp in a skillet to avoid rubbery texture. The dressing can be used the next day but might need a stir.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Blackened Shrimp Bowl?
- Chicken Breast: Prefer poultry? Swap shrimp for diced chicken breast; season and cook in the same manner.
- Tofu: A great option if you’re looking for a plant-based protein. Press it, cut into cubes and toss in spices.
- Zucchini Noodles: Replace rice with zoodles for a low-carb option.
- Spinach: Lay a bed of fresh spinach under your ingredients for extra nutrition.
- Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes can add a lovely sweetness and are a nutrient-dense option.
Conclusion
So there you have it—a blackened shrimp bowl that’s not just a meal but a delight. The process is straightforward, the ingredients fresh, and it’s a favorite across the board. This dish brings together health and flavor in a way that resonates with both your taste buds and your well-being.
Next time you face the kitchen with the daunting thought of dinner, remember this quick and tasty recipe. Whip it up, gather friends or family, and enjoy! Cook on, my friend!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- BBQ Shrimp Pascal Manale Copycat Recipe
- How to Make Shrimp Asparagus Mushroom Stir Fry
- Best Shrimp And Steak Hibachi Recipe
Blackened Shrimp Bowl Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Description
Before diving into my blackened shrimp bowl recipe, let’s chat about pairings. This dish is a delightful concoction of flavors and textures that boasts a wonderful punch, making it enjoyable on its own.
However, to elevate the experience, consider some fantastic accompaniments. For a crunchy contrast, serve crispy tortilla chips alongside a zesty salsa. The sweetness of mango salsa perfectly complements the spiciness of the shrimp, creating a harmonious balance.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend
-
Start by mixing the chili seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and onion powder in a small bowl. This spice blend is your secret weapon for the shrimp. It's bold but beautifully balanced.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
-
Toss your cleaned and deveined shrimp in a bowl with the spice blend. Make sure they’re covered but don’t worry about every single shrimp being perfectly coated. The heat will work its magic.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
-
In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot, almost shimmering, before adding the shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
-
Add the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until blackened and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
-
At the bottom of your bowl, layer in the cooked brown rice. On top of that, add the black beans, sweet corn, blackened shrimp, diced bell peppers, and avocado slices.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
-
In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, ripe avocado, cilantro, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
-
Top your bowl with the cilantro dressing and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Take a step back and admire your work!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 843kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 59.9g93%
- Saturated Fat 8.7g44%
- Cholesterol 194mg65%
- Sodium 2619mg110%
- Total Carbohydrate 61g21%
- Dietary Fiber 23g92%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Quality Shrimp: Don’t skimp on the shrimp quality. Fresh or frozen, just ensure they are wild-caught if possible.
- Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dry spices in advance. This can save time during the cooking process.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, just cut back on the chili seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Feel Free to Swap the Base: While brown rice is my go-to, quinoa or a bed of mixed greens works wonders too.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: The Greek yogurt ranch can be made a day ahead. It only gets better as the flavors meld.
