Name: Delicious Shrimp Rice Bowls with Creamy Spicy Mayo Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Frozen Argentinian shrimp; 1 cup Shredded carrots; 1 medium Cucumber (or radishes for a substitute); 1/2 cup Pickled onions (prepared in advance); 1 cup Jasmine rice (or frozen jasmine rice for convenience); 1/4 cup Fresh herbs (cilantro & parsley) (for garnish); 2 tbsp Olive oil (or avocado oil); to taste Sea salt; to taste Pepper; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (adjust for a lighter option); 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust based on heat preference)

As I took my first bite of these Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo, the exciting interplay of textures and flavors was like a cozy hug in a bowl. This recipe is my go-to for quick weeknight dinners; it’s ready in no time and gives your taste buds a serious wake-up call without the fuss. I love that it’s not only a vibrant meal but also perfect for meal prep, making it easy to grab and enjoy throughout the week. Imagine succulent shrimp nestled atop fluffy jasmine rice, fresh crisp veggies, and that oh-so-creamy spicy mayo drizzled generously on top. Curiosity sparked? Let’s dive into the full recipe and unlock this mouthwatering culinary adventure!

Why are these Shrimp Rice Bowls a must-try?

Quick, yet satisfying: These Shrimp Rice Bowls come together in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: The creamy spicy mayo boosts every bite, ensuring your taste buds are dancing with delight.
Healthy, wholesome ingredients: With protein-rich shrimp and fresh veggies, this dish hits all the right nutritional notes.
Meal prep friendly: Prepare your rice and veggies in advance, turning this recipe into a grab-and-go meal for the week.
Versatile options: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, or try making it with quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious twist. Explore variations like Egg Fried Rice to keep things exciting!

Shrimp Rice Bowls Ingredients

For the Bowl
• Shrimp – Use frozen Argentinian shrimp for convenience and a rich protein boost.
• Shredded Carrots – These add a satisfying crunch and sweetness to the dish.
• Cucumber – Freshness and hydration in every bite; radishes can work as a nice substitute.
• Pickled Onions – They deliver a tangy flavor that enhances your meal; easy to prepare in advance.
• Jasmine Rice – A comforting base that cooks quickly; frozen jasmine rice is a real time-saver.
• Fresh Herbs (Cilantro & Parsley) – They infuse the bowls with freshness and vibrant color.

For Cooking
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing shrimp; avocado oil is a great substitute for high heat.
• Sea Salt & Pepper – These basic seasonings elevate the dish’s overall flavor.

For the Spicy Mayo
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the spicy mayo; adjust for a lighter option if desired.
• Sriracha – Adds that perfect kick—vary the amount to customize the heat level to your taste.

Get ready to whip up these delightful Shrimp Rice Bowls that promise a burst of flavors and textures!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by cooking your jasmine rice according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. If you’re short on time, opt for frozen jasmine rice that can be heated in just a couple of minutes in the microwave. Fluff the rice with a fork once cooked, and keep it warm while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the rice is cooking, thinly slice your cucumber and prepare the shredded carrots. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even distribution in your shrimp rice bowls. If you love extra crunch, consider slicing the cucumber into matchsticks. Set these vibrant vegetables aside as they will contribute both color and texture to your dish.

Step 3: Make the Pickled Onions
To create tangy pickled onions, soak thinly sliced red onions in a mixture of salt, sugar, and vinegar for about 10-15 minutes. This quick pickling process softens the onions and enhances their flavor, adding a delightful zing to your shrimp rice bowls. Drain them just before assembling the bowls for a burst of brightness.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your thawed shrimp and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once cooked, season with a pinch of sea salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to create your shrimp rice bowls! Start by layering the base of fluffy jasmine rice in each bowl. Top with the sautéed shrimp, followed by a generous helping of shredded carrots and sliced cucumber. Garnish with the tangy pickled onions and sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like cilantro and parsley over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Mayo
For the creamy spicy mayo, simply combine mayonnaise with sriracha in a small bowl, adjusting the sriracha to your preferred heat level. This zesty sauce will add a delightful kick to your shrimp rice bowls. Drizzle the spicy mayo generously over the assembled bowls right before serving to elevate every bite with flavor.

What to Serve with Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these complementary dishes that elevate the experience of your shrimp rice bowls.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy appetizers add texture and a hint of freshness, balancing the creamy spicy mayo with each bite.
Garlic Edamame: A protein-packed, simple starter that brings a subtle nutty flavor, enhancing the umami notes in your shrimp.
Mango Salad: Featuring sweet mango, crunchy cucumber, and a tangy dressing, this salad introduces a bright, fruity contrast to the savory bowls.
Seared Tofu: For a vegetarian twist, seared tofu provides a satisfying chewiness and absorbs the flavors of the spicy mayo beautifully.
Spicy Soba Noodles: Tossed in sesame dressing, these noodles add an intriguing flavor and delightful nuttiness to round out the meal.
Green Tea: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate and complements the spice in the mayo without overpowering the dish.
Coconut Rice: Sweet and creamy, coconut rice serves as a comforting side that pairs well with the bold flavors of the shrimp rice bowls.

Shrimp Rice Bowls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful shrimp rice bowls, transforming them into something uniquely yours!

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for different protein options. Both offer fantastic flavor and texture, making the dish versatile for any diet.
Quinoa Base: Use quinoa instead of jasmine rice for a protein-packed, gluten-free alternative. The nutty flavor of quinoa beautifully complements the shrimp and veggies.
Flavorful Sauces: Drizzle with a sesame dressing or sweet chili sauce instead of spicy mayo for a different flavor experience. Discover how a change in sauce can elevate your dish!
Vegetable Variety: Switch up the veggies by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or avocado slices for an extra burst of color and nutrients. Each brings its own unique crunch and flavor.
Herb Alternatives: Swap cilantro and parsley with fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist. Each herb adds a distinct taste that can reinvent the shrimp rice bowls.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat of the spicy mayo by adding more or less sriracha. You can also try a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for another layer of heat.
Pickled Variations: Experiment with different pickled vegetables, like carrots or daikon radish, for additional zing. Each kind can bring a new dimension to your meal.
Meal Prep Tips: For a make-ahead option, pre-chop your veggies and store them in the fridge. This keeps things easy when you want to whip up a quick dinner or grab a nutritious lunch during the week.

Dive into these variations and let your imagination flourish! If you’re looking to explore more flavors, check out my Fried Rice Flavorful or the wonderfully unique Spicy Indian Rice. These ideas can keep your meal rotation fresh and exciting!

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the jasmine rice and chop the vegetables (cucumber and shredded carrots) up to 3 days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, make the pickled onions ahead by soaking thinly sliced red onion in a mixture of salt, sugar, and vinegar for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the thawed shrimp in olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until pink and opaque. Assemble your bowls with the prepped ingredients, drizzle with the spicy mayo, and enjoy a delicious meal ready in minutes!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Rice Bowls

Fridge: Store assembled shrimp rice bowls in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy mayo separate to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.

Freezer: For best results, do not freeze assembled bowls. Instead, freeze cooked shrimp and rice separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm shrimp and rice in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Add fresh veggies just before serving for optimal texture.

Make-Ahead Tips: Pre-chop veggies and cook rice in advance; these can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making your shrimp rice bowls even easier to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Shrimp Rice Bowls

• Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and cook jasmine rice in advance to streamline your weeknight cooking and enjoy easy meal prep.

• Thaw Properly: Ensure shrimp are fully thawed before cooking for even results. Overcooking can lead to tough shrimp, so keep an eye on the time!

• Customize Spice: Adjust the amount of sriracha in your spicy mayo to suit your heat preference; start small and add more if desired.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for the best flavor and texture; wilted veggies can detract from the crunchy experience.

• Experiment with Grains: For a nutritious twist, try switching jasmine rice with quinoa or brown rice; both offer a hearty base for your shrimp rice bowls.

• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your shrimp rice bowls fresh for the best textures and flavors; leftover mayo can separate, so add it just before serving!

Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for my Shrimp Rice Bowls?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for firm, moist, and bright-colored shrimp. Avoid those with dark spots or a strong fishy smell, as these can indicate poor quality. Frozen Argentinian shrimp is a great choice for convenience and quality. If fresh isn’t available, ensure your frozen shrimp is properly thawed before cooking to maintain its tenderness.

How should I store leftovers of my Shrimp Rice Bowls?
Very! To store your assembled shrimp rice bowls, place them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the spicy mayo separate to retain the crunch of the fresh veggies. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal even on busy days!

Can I freeze components of the Shrimp Rice Bowls?
Certainly! To freeze, cook shrimp and jasmine rice separately. Place them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and quickly reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. This allows you to enjoy a fresh-tasting meal any time!

What if my shrimp are tough after cooking?
Don’t worry! If shrimp turn out tough, it’s often due to overcooking. This can happen quickly, especially with shrimp, since they only need about 5-7 minutes of cooking time until they’re pink and opaque. Make sure to monitor them closely as they cook. If they’ve been cooked for too long, consider using them in a stir-fry or salad for a different texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Shrimp Rice Bowls are naturally gluten-free, especially when you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for any variations you might decide to implement. Just be sure to check the labels of any prepared ingredients like sauces if you’re sensitive to gluten.

Can I make the spicy mayo a little healthier?
Definitely! To lighten up the spicy mayo, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This way, you still achieve that creamy texture while slashing some calories. Just mix the yogurt with your sriracha to get that perfect blend of heat and flavor!