Sunny Shrimp & Rice Bowl With Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Tropical flavors dance across this incredible shrimp & rice bowl with pineapple salsa that delivers a burst of coastal freshness.

Ocean-caught shrimp nestle perfectly against fluffy rice grains, creating a harmonious base for the vibrant salsa.

Sweet and tangy pineapple chunks add a zesty punch to every single bite.

Bright citrus notes complement the succulent shrimp, making each mouthful a celebration of summer-inspired cuisine.

Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal.

The combination of juicy shrimp, perfectly seasoned rice, and bright salsa promises a delightful culinary adventure.

Dive into this refreshing bowl and experience a taste of tropical paradise.

Shrimp Rice Bowl With Pineapple Feels Like Summer

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What Goes Into a Shrimp and Rice Bowl

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides a delicious and tender main protein for the bowl.
• Olive Oil: Helps to coat and enhance the flavor of the shrimp.

• Old Bay Seasoning, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Create a flavorful and well-seasoned coating for the shrimp.

• Pineapple: Adds a sweet and tangy tropical element to the dish.
• Red Onion, Tomato, Cilantro: Provide fresh and vibrant flavors and textures to the salsa.
• Lime Juice, Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Balance and enhance the salsa's overall taste profile.

• Jasmine Rice: Serves as a soft and fragrant foundation for the bowl.
• Avocado: Offers a creamy and nutritious topping.

• Greek Yogurt, Cilantro, Green Onion, Lime Juice, Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil, Water: Create a smooth and tangy sauce to complement the bowl's flavors.

Instructions for Shrimp Rice Bowl With Pineapple

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

• Old Bay seasoning
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Gently toss the shrimp until each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful blend.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Fire up the air fryer to 380°F. Carefully place the seasoned shrimp inside and cook for 6 minutes.

Flip the shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking and golden perfection.

Step 3: Create Vibrant Pineapple Salsa

• Diced pineapple
• Chopped red onion
• Diced tomato
• Fresh cilantro

Splash in lime juice, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Mix thoroughly and taste to fine-tune the flavors.

Step 4: Whip Up Creamy Avocado Sauce

• Ripe avocado
• Greek yogurt
• Cilantro
• Green onion
• Lime juice
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil
• Water

Blend until silky smooth.

Adjust water to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Build Your Delicious Bowl

Start with a base of fluffy Jasmine rice.

Layer on the crispy seasoned shrimp, top with fresh pineapple salsa, and add slices of creamy avocado. Finish by drizzling the luscious avocado sauce over the entire bowl.

Notes for Building a Great Shrimp Rice Bowl

• Control heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes in salsa to match personal preference.
• Chop pineapple salsa ingredients and marinate shrimp in advance to save cooking time.
• Ensure shrimp are not overcrowded in air fryer for even, crispy results with golden edges.
• Add water gradually when blending avocado crema to achieve desired smooth, drizzleable texture.
• Use ripe pineapple and fresh cilantro for maximum taste and vibrant salsa color.

Toppings to Try in Shrimp Rice Bowls

• Tropical Chicken Remix: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken breast seasoned with same spices for a protein-packed alternative.
• Vegan Cauliflower Bowl: Swap shrimp with roasted cauliflower florets seasoned with Old Bay, serve over quinoa for plant-based protein.
• Gluten-Free Zucchini Noodle Version: Use spiralized zucchini noodles instead of rice, keeping all other ingredients the same for a low-carb option.
• Spicy Tofu Fusion: Substitute shrimp with crispy tofu cubes, marinaded in similar spices and air-fried for a vegetarian protein option.

Sides That Match Shrimp and Pineapple Bowls

• Tropical Cocktail Companion: Pair with a zesty mojito blending white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, and a splash of pineapple juice for a vibrant flavor match.
• Refreshing Wine Selection: Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with citrusy notes that complement the bright pineapple salsa and enhance the shrimp's delicate seasoning.
• Perfect Beer Pairing: Select a light wheat beer or Corona with a lime wedge to echo the dish's tropical elements and provide a clean, refreshing contrast to the spicy and tangy flavors.
• Mocktail Alternative: Create a sparkling pineapple-mint spritzer using fresh pineapple juice, mint leaves, soda water, and a hint of lime for a non-alcoholic beverage that mirrors the bowl's fresh profile.

Storing Shrimp Rice Bowls for Later Lunches

• Store leftover shrimp, rice, salsa, and avocado crema separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Freeze shrimp and rice in sealed freezer bags for maximum 2 months; avoid freezing salsa and crema as they may separate.
• Warm rice and shrimp in microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent drying out.
• Quickly reheat shrimp and rice in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.

FAQs

• What kind of rice works best for this recipe?

Jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrant and slightly sticky texture, which complements the shrimp and salsa perfectly.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure crispy results in the air fryer.

• Is the avocado crema necessary?

While optional, the avocado crema adds a creamy, tangy element that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, making it more rich and satisfying.

• How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes provide a mild heat that can be easily adjusted by adding more or less according to your personal spice preference.

Shrimp & Rice Bowl With Pineapple Salsa Recipe

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4.7 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Zesty shrimp & rice bowl with pineapple salsa combines tropical flavors for a mouthwatering meal that transports palates to island paradise. Crisp pineapple chunks and succulent shrimp create a perfect balance of sweet and savory you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound (226 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

• Olive oil, for coating

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Instructions

1. Marinate shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating.
2. Preheat air fryer to 380°F and cook shrimp for 6 minutes, turning midway to ensure uniform golden crispiness.
3. Create vibrant pineapple salsa by combining diced pineapple, red onion, tomato, and fresh cilantro with lime juice, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
4. Craft smooth avocado crema by blending ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, green onion, lime juice, salt, pepper, olive oil, and water until silky, adjusting liquid for desired thickness.
5. Construct rice bowls by laying down fluffy Jasmine rice as foundation, arranging golden air-fried shrimp on top.
6. Garnish with colorful pineapple salsa, delicate avocado slices, and generously drizzle with creamy avocado crema for a harmonious flavor profile.

Notes

• Maximize shrimp flavor by marinating for 15-30 minutes before cooking to enhance seasoning absorption and tenderness.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes in salsa or using alternative spices like cayenne or chili powder for personalized spiciness.
• Ensure crispy air-fried shrimp by patting them dry before seasoning and avoiding overcrowding in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
• Create dietary alternatives like using cauliflower rice for low-carb version or swapping shrimp with tofu for vegetarian protein option.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 120
• Sodium: 380
• Fat: 2
• Saturated Fat: 0.3
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.5
• Carbohydrates: 1
• Protein: 22
• Cholesterol: 195