Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl is bursting with bright, fresh flavors. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned with lime and fish sauce, creating a deliciously savory base for the bowl. Paired with the creamy dressing and the crunchy veggies, it’s a balanced meal that feels light but is still filling. Whether you serve it as a quick dinner or pack it for lunch, this dish is both flavorful and nourishing. The combination of textures – from the tender shrimp to the crisp cabbage and carrot ribbons – makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• 2 teaspoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon avocado mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Ground pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• ½ cup chopped cilantro (packed)

Others:

• 2 cups cooked rice (short grain rice preferred, or any rice of choice)
• 2 cups red cabbage, very thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled into ribbons using a peeler

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, mayonnaise, olive oil, and ground pepper until smooth. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the shrimp, salt, olive oil, fish sauce, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly, then let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
   • In each serving bowl, layer the cooked rice, thinly sliced red cabbage, and carrot ribbons.
   • Top with the cooked shrimp, then drizzle with the cilantro lime dressing.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with additional cilantro if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Rice: You can use any variety of rice, such as brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetables: Add more colorful veggies like bell peppers, cucumber, or avocado for added texture and nutrition.
• Shrimp Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, this recipe can easily be adapted with grilled chicken or tofu.
• Dressing Alternatives: For a creamier dressing, you can add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

This Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the shrimp and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add extra dressing before serving to freshen it up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating and cooking.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I substitute the fish sauce?

If you don’t have fish sauce, you can use soy sauce as an alternative, although it will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I add avocado to this bowl?

Absolutely! Sliced avocado would be a great addition to this shrimp bowl, providing a creamy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use any rice you prefer, such as brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa. Just be sure to cook it beforehand.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the shrimp for tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based mayonnaise for a vegetarian version.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is not particularly spicy, but if you like heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the dressing or the shrimp marinade.

Can I serve this as a wrap instead of a bowl?

Yes, you can use whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps to make a Cilantro Lime Shrimp Wrap instead. Just fill the wrap with the rice, veggies, shrimp, and dressing.

Can I add beans to this dish for extra protein?

Yes, black beans or chickpeas would be a great addition to this bowl, offering extra protein and fiber.

Can I use a different type of mayonnaise?

Yes, feel free to use regular mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free option if you prefer.

Conclusion

This Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl is a vibrant, fresh, and easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, crunchy veggies, and a creamy cilantro lime dressing, it’s a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Customize it with your favorite veggies or protein, and enjoy a light yet filling meal that’s bursting with bright, zesty flavors!

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