How to Make the Perfect Shrimp and Brown Rice Grain Bowl
Caribbean · Easy · 45 min · 3 servings
This light and satisfying grain bowl features garlicky sauteed shrimp served over wholesome brown rice with a fresh mango salsa and creamy avocado. It is a perfect balance of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and tropical flavors in every single bite.
Why this recipe works
This Shrimp and Brown Rice Grain Bowl recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 510 calories with 32g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 400 g large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 whole ripe mango diced
- 1 whole avocado sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Mango Salsa
Combine the diced mango with finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Let the salsa rest for at least 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together properly.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Step 3: Season and Rest
Remove the shrimp from heat and season with a squeeze of lime juice, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes if desired. Let the shrimp rest for 2 minutes before assembling the bowls.
Step 4: Build the Bowls
Divide the brown rice among three serving bowls and arrange the garlic shrimp and sliced avocado on top. Spoon the fresh mango salsa generously over each bowl and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- shrimp → scallops or grilled white fish such as tilapia for variety
- brown rice → wild rice or quinoa for a different grain base
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcooking the shrimp which makes it rubbery and tough instead of tender
- Making the mango salsa too far in advance which causes it to become watery and lose its texture
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 510 calories, 32g protein, 62g carbs, 14g fat, 7g fiber.
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