Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

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If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal, look no further than these Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe brings together juicy shrimp, refreshing vegetables, and a creamy, spicy mayo that ties everything together. With simple ingredients that you can easily prep ahead of time, you’ll have a delicious, nutritious meal ready in just 15 minutes!

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Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is a breeze to make. The best part? The spicy mayo adds a burst of flavor that takes this dish to the next level, complementing the savory shrimp and vibrant veggies perfectly. It’s a well-balanced meal that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing with its pop of colors and textures.

Ingredients Breakdown

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that come together to create this irresistible shrimp rice bowl.

For the Shrimp Rice Bowl:

• Frozen Shrimp (7 pieces): This is the star protein of the dish. Frozen shrimp are a convenient option, as they’re easy to store and cook quickly. You can also opt for fresh shrimp if available, but frozen shrimp work just as well when thawed properly.
• Jasmine Rice (1/2 cup): A fragrant, long-grain rice with a subtle floral aroma. Jasmine rice is the perfect base for this dish as it pairs well with both the shrimp and the spicy mayo.
• Pickled Onions (1/4 cup): A tangy and slightly sweet addition, pickled onions add a lovely crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the shrimp and mayo.
• Shredded Carrots (1/4 cup): Adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the bowl. Carrots are a healthy, crunchy addition that balances the dish’s other flavors.
• Cucumber (1/4 cup): Fresh cucumber slices bring a cool, crisp contrast to the warmth of the shrimp and rice. It’s the perfect way to add some lightness to the bowl.
• Fresh Cilantro (1 tbsp) and Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp): These herbs brighten up the dish and add a refreshing touch. Their earthy flavors complement the shrimp and mayo beautifully.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the shrimp, olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that adds richness to the dish.
• Sea Salt and Pepper (1/2 tsp each): These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp, vegetables, and rice.

For the Spicy Mayo:

• Mayo (1/4 cup): The creamy base of the spicy mayo, offering a smooth texture that coats the shrimp and veggies perfectly.
• Sriracha (1 1/2 tbsp): The key ingredient for adding heat and flavor. Sriracha is the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet, creating a bold kick.
• Lemon (1/2, juiced): The acidity from the lemon helps cut through the creaminess of the mayo and adds a bright note to the spicy sauce.
• Honey (1 tsp): A touch of sweetness to balance out the heat from the sriracha and add depth to the sauce.
• Sea Salt (1/4 tsp): Just a pinch to season the mayo and bring all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have everything we need, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo.

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Heat a pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up.
   • Add the frozen shrimp to the pan, sprinkling them with sea salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is fully cooked through and turns a nice pink color.
   • Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice:
   • Prepare the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. For a quicker option, you can use frozen jasmine rice and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
   • Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Spicy Mayo:
   • In a small bowl, combine the mayo, sriracha, honey, lemon juice, and sea salt.
   • Whisk everything together until smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your liking by adding more sriracha or honey, depending on your preference.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
   • In a large bowl, add the cooked jasmine rice as the base.
   • Layer on the shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and pickled onions for a burst of flavor and texture.
   • Arrange the sautéed shrimp on top of the veggies and rice.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Spicy Mayo:
   • Sprinkle fresh cilantro and parsley over the shrimp rice bowl to add a refreshing, herbaceous touch.
   • Drizzle the spicy mayo generously over the top of the bowl, making sure every bite is coated with that creamy, spicy goodness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Grab a spoon or chopsticks, and enjoy your flavorful Shrimp Rice Bowl with Spicy Mayo!

Flavor, Texture, and Aroma

As you take the first bite of this Shrimp Rice Bowl, you’ll immediately be hit with the delightful combination of textures and flavors. The tender shrimp has a slightly crisp exterior from the sautéing, while the inside remains juicy and succulent. The jasmine rice serves as a fragrant and soft base that balances the dish, while the pickled onions provide a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the shrimp and mayo.

The shredded carrots offer a natural sweetness and a crunchy texture, while the cucumber provides a cool, refreshing bite that adds to the overall balance of flavors. The spicy mayo brings everything together—creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet, it coats the shrimp and veggies with a deliciously bold flavor that’s perfectly addictive.

The fresh cilantro and parsley lend a burst of color and freshness, making each bite even more delightful. The whole dish is well-balanced, with every ingredient working in harmony to create a satisfying and delicious meal.

Tips and Variations

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Shrimp: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, feel free to swap it for grilled chicken, tofu, or even a medley of your favorite sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Rice: Jasmine rice adds a lovely aroma and texture, but you can easily substitute it with brown rice for a heartier, fiber-rich base, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Pickled Onions: If pickled onions aren’t your thing, try adding sliced avocado for a creamy, mild contrast, or use regular onions sautéed until golden brown for a savory note.

Make It Spicier: For an extra spicy kick, add more sriracha to the mayo or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving. You can also add a few slices of fresh jalapeños for a burst of heat.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prep Ahead: You can prep the rice, shrimp, and spicy mayo ahead of time. Store the rice in an airtight container, and the shrimp can be cooked and kept in the fridge for up to two days. The spicy mayo can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make multiple bowls and store them in individual containers for a quick grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

These Shrimp Rice Bowls are a complete meal on their own, but if you’re looking to make it even more satisfying, consider pairing it with:

• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, snap peas, or edamame are great additions that add extra texture and nutrition to the meal.
• A Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the spicy mayo while adding a refreshing crunch.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious dish to meal prep, these Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo are an absolute winner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a vibrant, flavorful meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy. The creamy, spicy mayo elevates the dish, while the fresh veggies and succulent shrimp create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.