Name: Delicious Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (Frozen, thawed thoroughly); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (For sautéing); 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce; 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Onion Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; to taste Salt and Pepper; 1 cup Jasmine Rice (Can substitute with basmati or brown rice); 1.5 cups Water (For cooking); 1 cup Cucumber (Sliced); 1 medium Avocado (Sliced); 1 cup Carrots (Julienned); 2 stalks Green Onions (Chopped); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (Toasted); 2 wedge Lime (For serving); 0.5 cup Spicy Mayo (A mixture of mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice)

The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting a hot skillet is like music to my ears, instantly transporting me to my favorite beachside eatery. This is where my love for Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo began—a quick recipe that beautifully marries tender shrimp, fluffy jasmine rice, and a zingy topping that even the busiest home chef can whip up. Not only is this dish a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a healthy and satisfying option, perfect for a weeknight dinner. In just 45 minutes, you can create a meal that’s loaded with protein and vibrant flavors, all while steering clear of fast food. Are you ready to embark on this culinary adventure and make your dinner table a little more exciting?

Why Are You Going to Love This?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Flavor Explosion: The shrimp are seasoned with a blend of spices, and the creamy spicy mayo adds an exciting zing that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Healthier Alternative: Filled with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is a strong contender against takeout options, bringing a nutritious homemade meal to your table.

Versatile: Want to switch it up? You can easily swap shrimp for tofu or tempeh for delicious vegetarian options.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its colorful presentation and flavorful ingredients, this meal is sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to for gatherings.

Elevate your dinner game and explore more amazing meals like Shrimp Dirty Rice or Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Main protein source providing texture and brininess; use frozen shrimp, thawed thoroughly, if fresh is not available.
• Olive Oil – Used to sauté shrimp, adding richness and preventing sticking.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor and saltiness to shrimp.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses mild garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Onion Powder – Provides sweet onion notes to the seasoning mix.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds subtle smokiness and warm color to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance flavor.

For the Rice
• Jasmine Rice – Fluffy base that absorbs flavors from shrimp and sauce; substitute with basmati or brown rice if desired.
• Water – Required for cooking the rice to tender perfection.

For the Vegetables and Toppings
• Cucumber – Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warmth of the rice and shrimp.
• Avocado – Provides creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Carrots – Offers sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• Green Onions – Mildly onion-flavored garnish adding freshness.
• Sesame Seeds – Provides a nutty crunch and appealing visual garnish.
• Lime Wedges – For added brightness when serving.

For the Spicy Mayo
• Spicy Mayo – Mixture of mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice, providing the dish’s distinctive zing.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 ½ cups of water, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. After cooking, allow the rice to rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to achieve perfect fluffiness.

Step 2: Prepare Shrimp
While the rice is resting, take 1 pound of shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated in the seasoning, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until hot. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, turning when they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if necessary. Once cooked through, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside, allowing the skillet to retain its heat for assembling the bowls.

Step 4: Make Spicy Mayo
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste the spicy mayo and adjust the seasoning by adding more Sriracha for extra heat or more mayo for a milder flavor. This zesty sauce will bring an exciting kick to your Shrimp Rice Bowls.

Step 5: Assemble Bowls
Divide the fluffy jasmine rice evenly among four bowls, creating a generous base. Top each bowl with the cooked shrimp, and then artfully arrange thinly sliced cucumber, avocado, and julienned carrots around the shrimp for colorful contrast. Finishing with a sprinkle of chopped green onions will add a fresh touch, making your bowls visually inviting.

Step 6: Drizzle Spicy Mayo
Using a spoon, drizzle the prepared spicy mayo generously over the shrimp and vegetables in each bowl. Allow the creamy sauce to cascade over the colorful ingredients, enhancing both flavor and presentation. For an added crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top, creating a delightful texture contrast.

Step 7: Serve
Finish your Shrimp Rice Bowls by garnishing with lime wedges to brighten the flavors even further. Serve each bowl immediately while everything is warm and vibrant, allowing family and friends to dig in! These bowls are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to fast food, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Airtight Containers: Store leftover shrimp rice bowls in separate airtight containers for up to 2-3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Refrigeration: Keep shrimp and rice together, but store vegetables separately to keep them crisp. Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Avoid freezing the rice or spicy mayo.

Reheating: Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed for moisture.

What to Serve with Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Elevate your meal experience by pairing your vibrant shrimp rice bowls with tantalizing sides and drinks that complement the dish perfectly.

Crispy Tempura Vegetables: These light, crunchy bites provide a delightful contrast to the creamy spicy mayo, enhancing texture in every bite.
Light Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty lime-ginger vinaigrette brings brightness and balances the rich flavors of your shrimp bowls.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, its crisp acidity cutting through the richness of the spicy mayo while enhancing the shrimp’s delicate flavors.
Garlic Edamame: These tender and savory beans are an excellent source of protein, inviting your taste buds to explore different flavors and textures alongside the shrimp.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a soothing element that complements the crispy and spicy elements of the meal. It’s a comforting addition that ties in Asian flavors beautifully.
Coconut Sticky Rice: This sweet and creamy rice dish brings a tropical vibe to your table, balancing the heat of the spicy mayo with its delightful sweetness.
Pineapple Ginger Soda: A refreshing fizzy drink with hints of pineapple and ginger enhances the tropical tones of the shrimp, making your dining experience truly uplifting.
Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with a cool mango sorbet that cleanses the palate and perfectly complements the bold flavors of the shrimp rice bowls.

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will add excitement to your Shrimp Rice Bowls!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based delight that absorbs flavors beautifully. This swap keeps the same heartiness while bringing a fresh take on texture.
Brown Rice: Opt for brown rice instead of jasmine for added fiber and a nuttier taste. This wholesome option works beautifully, enhancing the dish’s healthiness and satisfaction!
Quinoa: For a gluten-free grain alternative, try quinoa! Its fluffy texture and mild flavor will blend perfectly with the shrimp and zesty mayo.
Extra Veggies: Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for a vibrant crunch. These colorful additions can elevate your bowls visually and nutritionally.
Spicy or Sweet: For a sweet twist, drizzle some honey or agave over the dish, or elevate the heat with fresh jalapeños or chili flakes. Experiment with flavors to find your personal favorite!
Asian Influence: Swap the soy sauce for a splash of teriyaki sauce or coconut aminos for a sweet and savory flavor profile. This variation brings a new cultural flavor to your dining table.
Sesame Oil Toss: Before serving, toss the shrimp in toasted sesame oil for an added depth of flavor. This simple addition transforms the dish, giving it a rich, aromatic finish.
Smoked Salmon: If you want a luxurious touch, replace shrimp with smoked salmon. The smoky notes combined with zesty mayo create a refined experience that’s perfect for special occasions.

For further culinary inspiration, how about trying my Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, or enjoy the comforting flavors of my Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Chicken Pasta for a different yet fulfilling evening meal?

Expert Tips for Shrimp Rice Bowls

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking shrimp to ensure even cooking and a delightful sear on each piece.
Taste Test the Mayo: Gradually adjust the spiciness of the mayo by tasting as you mix. This ensures you achieve the perfect balance that suits your palate.
Rice Prep Mastery: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffy rice that absorbs flavors beautifully in your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo.
Chill the Ingredients: For the freshest taste, store your cut vegetables in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your bowls. This will keep them crisp and vibrant!
Meal Prep Strategy: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in individual containers to make for a quick and easy weeknight dinner option.

Make Ahead Options

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to pull together a delicious meal with minimal effort during the week. You can prep the rice and chop all vegetables up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the spicy mayo can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet for just a couple of minutes to ensure they’re just as tender and flavorful as when freshly cooked. This approach not only saves time but ensures a homemade meal that rivals any takeout option!

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor in your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo, I recommend using shrimp that are medium to large-sized. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, you can easily use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are thawed thoroughly in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.

How do I store leftover shrimp rice bowls?
Very good question! You can store your leftover shrimp rice bowls in separate airtight containers for up to 2-3 days. It’s important to keep the shrimp and rice together but store the vegetables separately to ensure they stay crisp. This way, you can enjoy a fresh-tasting meal even after cooking!

Can I freeze shrimp for later use?
The more the merrier! While it’s not ideal to freeze the entire assembled bowl, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to use them again!

What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If you find your shrimp are a bit overcooked, they may become tough. To prevent this, ensure your skillet is at the right temperature before adding the shrimp and cook until they are just pink and opaque, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, and remember, shrimp cook quickly!

Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, but it depends on individual allergies! This recipe contains shrimp, soy sauce (which has gluten), and spicy mayo (which contains eggs). If anyone in your household has allergies, I recommend substituting the shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option and using gluten-free soy sauce. Always check labels for any hidden allergens!