Name: Delicious Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo in 45 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly); 2 tablespoons olive oil (For sautéing); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Low-sodium recommended); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); 1 cup jasmine rice (Can substitute with basmati or brown rice); 1.5 cups water (For cooking the rice); 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1 avocado sliced; 1 cup carrots, shredded; 0.25 cup green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 lime wedges (For serving); 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust for desired spiciness); 0.5 lime juiced

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook the joy of a freshly made meal, but let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a vibrant Shrimp Rice Bowl with Spicy Mayo to change that. This dish combines tender, succulent shrimp with fluffy jasmine rice and a colorful mix of fresh veggies, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate. What makes it even better is how beginner-friendly it is—you can whip this up in just 45 minutes! Plus, it caters to those busy days when you still want something nutritious and satisfying. With a drizzle of zesty spicy mayo, these bowls offer a customizable twist, allowing you to tailor them to your taste. Ready to elevate your mealtime? Let’s dive into this quick and delicious recipe together!

Why are these Shrimp Rice Bowls a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty spicy mayo adds an irresistible tang that complements the succulent shrimp.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or a protein like tofu for dietary preferences.
Nutritious Meal: Packed with veggies and healthy fats, it’s a satisfying choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of fresh ingredients create an eye-catching presentation, making it feel like a gourmet meal at home.
Add a refreshing side like a light salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to complete your dining experience!

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best; you can use frozen shrimp if thawed properly.
Olive Oil – Provides moisture and enhances browning while sautéing the shrimp.
Soy Sauce – Adds a rich umami depth to the shrimp; choose low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Garlic Powder – This pantry staple boosts flavor with its mild sweetness.
Onion Powder – Complements garlic and adds aromatic tones to the dish.
Smoked Paprika – Gives a hint of smokiness and vibrant color.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.

For the Rice

Jasmine Rice – Provides a fluffy and fragrant base; feel free to swap with basmati or brown rice if preferred.
Water – Steams the rice to the perfect tenderness for a delightful texture.

For the Veggies

Cucumber – Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast.
Avocado – Provides a creamy richness that balances the heat from the spicy mayo.
Carrots – Brings a sweet crunch and pop of color to the bowl.
Green Onions – Adds freshness and a subtle onion flavor to brighten each bite.

For the Garnish

Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle for a hint of nutty crunch and a beautiful presentation.
Lime Wedges – Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors when squeezed over the bowl.

For the Spicy Mayo

Spicy Mayo – A creamy blend of mayonnaise, Sriracha for heat, and a dash of lime juice for brightness. Adjust the spice level to your liking; it’s key to the Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo experience!

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients, and customize this dish to suit your tastes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 ½ cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Once the time is up, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to ensure fluffy rice.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the rice is cooking, take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and place them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything well until the shrimp are coated evenly; this will enhance the flavors in your Shrimp Rice Bowls.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and firm to the touch. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, and the juice of half a lime. Whisk the mixture together until smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust the spiciness by adding more Sriracha if desired, ensuring the creamy spicy mayo is ready to drizzle over your colorful Shrimp Rice Bowls.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to build your Shrimp Rice Bowls! Start by placing a generous scoop of the fluffy jasmine rice in each bowl as a base. Next, carefully arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the rice. Add a variety of colorful veggies around the shrimp, such as thinly sliced cucumber, creamy avocado, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions for freshness and texture.

Step 6: Drizzle the Mayo
Take your prepared spicy mayo and drizzle it generously over the assembled rice bowls. This creamy topping enhances the flavors and adds a delightful kick that ties everything together beautifully. Feel free to add more if you love that extra spice!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo, sprinkle a handful of sesame seeds over the top for a nutty crunch. Serve lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze fresh lime juice over their bowls for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious meal!

Expert Tips for Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Shrimp Perfection: Avoid overcooking shrimp, as this can result in a rubbery texture; cook until pink and opaque for tender bites.
Customize Spice: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the spicy mayo for heat; always taste as you mix to find your perfect balance.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best crunch and flavor; they enhance the vibrant look and taste of your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo.
Rice Rinsing: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a fluffier texture when cooked.
Presentation Matters: Arrange your veggies artistically around the shrimp to create an attractive dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

What to Serve with Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that round out the flavors of your meal.

Crispy Asian Slaw: The crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots, dressed with a tangy sesame vinaigrette, complements the spicy mayo beautifully.
Miso Soup: This warm, savory soup adds a comforting touch, enhancing the umami flavors of the shrimp and balancing the spice.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly stir-fried with garlic, bok choy offers a tender, slightly crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the rice bowls.
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice brings a subtle sweetness that balances the heat of the spicy mayo, creating a harmonious bite.
Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame adds a protein-packed snack element, providing a delightful pop of texture alongside the shrimp.
Chilled Soba Noodles: Tossed in a soy-sesame dressing, these noodles add a refreshing twist that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s bold flavors.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the dish, making every bite feel light and satisfying.
Mango Sticky Rice: Conclude your meal with this sweet dessert, offering a luscious contrast to the savory bowls, ensuring a balanced dining experience.

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Shrimp Rice Bowls and make them your own!

Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for firm tofu or tempeh, sautéing until golden for a delightful, plant-based twist.
Whole Grain Boost: Use brown rice instead of jasmine for heartier bowls packed with fiber and nutrients.
Extra Spicy: Add fresh chopped jalapeños or increase the Sriracha in the mayo to ignite your taste buds with heat.
Flavorful Additions: Toss some edamame or snap peas into your veggies for added protein and a delightful crunch.
Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy mayo.
Nutty Finish: Drizzle a bit of toasted sesame oil over the finished bowls to enhance the nutty flavors and aroma.
Creamy Avocado Boost: Add an extra layer of avocado, making the bowls even more rich and luxurious in texture.
Zesty Vibes: Mix lime zest into the spicy mayo for an extra citrusy kick that elevates the entire dish.

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, try pairing with Herby Barley Salad to add texture or whip up a comforting Pumpkin Wild Rice as a side dish!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo ahead of time can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prep the rice and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook the rice as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the shrimp, mix it with the seasonings and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. The spicy mayo can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s in a well-sealed container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the rice and shrimp quickly in a skillet, drizzle with the spicy mayo, and enjoy a meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy your Shrimp Rice Bowls fresh. If left at room temperature, consume within 2 hours to maintain safety.
Fridge: Store the components—rice, shrimp, and spicy mayo—separately in airtight containers; they can last for up to 3 days. This prevents sogginess and keeps flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp and rice in individual containers. They can last for up to 3 months. Let the shrimp thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the shrimp and rice in the microwave until warmed through. Serve with fresh spicy mayo to refresh the flavors of your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo.

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but you can also use frozen shrimp—just ensure they are thawed properly before cooking.

How do I store leftover Shrimp Rice Bowls?
Very! Store the rice, shrimp, and spicy mayo separately in airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. This way, the components stay fresh, and you avoid sogginess in your bowls.

Can I freeze Shrimp Rice Bowls for later?
Of course! To freeze, portion out the cooked shrimp and rice into individual containers and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave.

What if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
Common mistake! Rubberiness usually means the shrimp was overcooked. Aim to cook shrimp until they’re pink and opaque, which takes about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Keeping a close eye during cooking is key to that tender bite.

Can I customize the veggies in my Shrimp Rice Bowls?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or even add some firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. Options like bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli would work beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, considering allergies is important! If you’re cooking for someone with soy allergies, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos. Additionally, keep the spice levels in mind; adjust the Sriracha in the mayo or leave it out entirely for a milder flavor suitable for everyone.