Description
Escape to paradise with every bite of this Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl! Juicy shrimp are pan-seared to perfection and served over fluffy rice with a medley of tropical fruits, crunchy veggies, and a creamy coconut-lime drizzle. It’s light, vibrant, and bursting with sweet and savory island flavors—perfect for summer meals or whenever you need a tropical pick-me-up.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
-
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp smoked paprika
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
Juice of ½ lime
For the Tropical Rice Bowl:
-
2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (white or brown)
-
1 cup diced fresh pineapple
-
1 mango, peeled and diced
-
½ red bell pepper, chopped
-
½ cup shredded red cabbage
-
¼ cup sliced cucumber or radish (optional)
-
2 tbsp chopped green onions
-
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
-
1 avocado, sliced or diced
For the Coconut-Lime Drizzle:
-
¼ cup coconut milk (full-fat or lite)
-
1 tbsp lime juice
-
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
-
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
-
Prepare your rice according to package instructions.
-
Fluff with a fork and set aside. Keep warm.
Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp
-
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
-
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
-
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
-
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Coconut-Lime Drizzle
-
In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, honey, and salt until smooth.
-
Alternatively, blend in a mini food processor for an ultra-creamy texture.
-
Taste and adjust sweetness or lime juice as desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
-
Divide the cooked rice evenly between 4 bowls.
-
Top with sautéed shrimp, pineapple, mango, bell pepper, red cabbage, avocado, cucumber or radish (if using), green onions, and cilantro.
-
Drizzle each bowl with the coconut-lime sauce.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
-
Garnish with extra lime wedges or a sprinkle of sesame seeds (optional).
-
Serve immediately while the shrimp are warm and the flavors are vibrant.
Notes
Use Fresh, Ripe Fruit – For the best texture and tropical sweetness.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – They cook quickly and turn rubbery if left too long.
Chill the Sauce – For a refreshing contrast, keep the drizzle cold.
Add Crunch – Top with chopped cashews, macadamia nuts, or crispy plantains.
Go Grain-Free – Swap rice for cauliflower rice or leafy greens for a low-carb bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American–Tropical Fusion