Fiesta Shrimp Rice Bowl Recipe

Introduction

This Fiesta Shrimp Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful meal ready in just 15 minutes. Packed with zesty spices, fresh veggies, and tender shrimp, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy a burst of colors and tastes in every bite!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 large lime)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more if you want it spicier)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
• 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 cups uncooked white rice (Minute Rice recommended, but quinoa, brown rice, or lettuce can be used)
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced cherry tomatoes
• 1 jalapeno, sliced (optional)
• Fresh chopped cilantro (for topping)
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• 1 (15 ounce) can fire roasted corn, drained
• To serve: Homemade creamy jalapeno ranch or store-bought cilantro ranch

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and chopped cilantro. Pat the shrimp dry, then add it to the marinade. Toss to fully coat, cover, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
2. Step 2: While the shrimp marinates, prepare the rice according to package instructions. You can use Minute Rice for a quick option or choose quinoa, brown rice, or even lettuce for a lighter version.
3. Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat without adding oil. Once hot, place the shrimp in an even layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and pink, forming a loose “C” shape. Remove from heat and stir to coat the shrimp in any pan juices.
4. Step 4: Assemble the bowls by layering the cooked rice, shrimp, diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, jalapeno slices (if using), fire roasted corn, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle with additional lime juice and creamy cilantro ranch dressing if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper or jalapenos according to your heat preference.
• Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor and brightness.
• Try adding black beans or bell peppers to boost nutrition and color.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp and rice separate from fresh toppings like avocado and jalapenos to prevent sogginess. Reheat shrimp and rice gently in a skillet or microwave until warm. Add fresh toppings and dressing after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure even cooking and good texture.

What can I use instead of white rice?

You can substitute white rice with quinoa, brown rice, or even chopped lettuce for a lighter, low-carb version of this bowl.

Fiesta Shrimp Rice Bowl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 119 reviews

This Fiesta Shrimp Rice Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish featuring marinated shrimp cooked in a skillet and served over fluffy white rice, topped with fresh vegetables, avocado, fire-roasted corn, and creamy cilantro jalapeno ranch. Perfect for a vibrant weeknight meal with a spicy kick and bright lime flavors.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Ingredients

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Marinade and Shrimp

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 large lime)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more if you want it more spicy)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
• 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Rice and Toppings

• 2 cups uncooked white rice (Minute Rice recommended, or quinoa, brown rice, or lettuce as alternatives)
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced cherry tomatoes
• 1 jalapeno, sliced (optional)
• Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• 1 (15 ounce) can fire roasted corn, drained

To Serve

• Homemade creamy jalapeno ranch or store-bought cilantro ranch

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and chopped cilantro. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then add them to the marinade and toss well to fully coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
2. Prepare the Rice and Toppings: While the shrimp marinates, cook the rice according to package instructions. If using Minute Rice, it should take about 5 minutes. Once cooked, set aside and prepare the toppings by dicing the red onion and cherry tomatoes, slicing the jalapeno if using, draining the fire-roasted corn, slicing the avocado, and chopping additional fresh cilantro for garnish.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. The pan does not require additional oil due to the marinade. Once hot, spread the shrimp in an even layer and cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until the underside is opaque and pink. Flip the shrimp and cook another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and curled into a loose “C” shape. Remove from heat and stir any pan sauces to coat the shrimp evenly.
4. Assemble the Fiesta Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked shrimp, diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, jalapeno slices, fire roasted corn, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Add extra lime juice and drizzle with creamy jalapeno or cilantro ranch dressing as desired.

Notes

• You can substitute white rice with quinoa, brown rice, or even lettuce for a low-carb option.
• For meal prepping, store the shrimp separately from the rice and toppings to maintain freshness.
• Adjust cayenne pepper according to spice preference.
• To make homemade creamy jalapeno ranch, blend mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, jalapeno peppers, garlic, cilantro, and seasoning.

Keywords: shrimp rice bowl, fiesta shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, Mexican shrimp bowl, spicy shrimp, rice bowl, skillet shrimp, weeknight dinner