Shrimp Rice Bowls with Spicy Mayo

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal that combines bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, shrimp rice bowls with spicy mayo are the answer. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep, this dish brings together tender, juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, zesty spicy mayo drizzle. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of creating restaurant-quality shrimp rice bowls at home, along with plenty of tips, variations, and serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp rice bowls with spicy mayo are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The shrimp is marinated to perfection, adding a burst of savory goodness, while the spicy mayo provides a creamy, tangy kick that ties the whole dish together. This recipe is also highly customizable—you can mix and match vegetables, swap out the rice for grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice, and adjust the spice level to your liking. The bowls are a great option for meal prep, as they store well and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for busy weekdays. Plus, shrimp is a lean source of protein, and the addition of vegetables and whole grains makes this a well-rounded, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 bowls
• Serving size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)

For the Spicy Mayo:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce

For the Rice Bowl Base:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or quinoa, cauliflower rice, etc.)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup sliced radishes
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Additional Toppings (Optional):

• Pickled ginger
• Nori strips (seaweed)
• Chopped peanuts or cashews
• Extra sriracha or soy sauce for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and let the shrimp marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other components.

2. Cook the Rice

If you haven’t already cooked your rice, do so now. Use your favorite method, whether it’s a rice cooker, stovetop, or instant pot. Fluff the rice with a fork once it’s done, and set it aside.

3. Make the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and soy sauce until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

5. Assemble the Rice Bowls

Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with a portion of cooked shrimp, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, radishes, avocado slices, and green onions.

6. Add the Finishing Touches

Drizzle the spicy mayo generously over each bowl. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, cilantro, or any additional toppings you like. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

Shrimp is a low-fat, high-protein seafood option that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture, and be sure to peel and devein them before cooking. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

Rice

White rice provides a neutral base that soaks up the flavors of the shrimp and spicy mayo, but you can opt for brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Jasmine or basmati rice also works well for a fragrant touch.

Vegetables

The crisp vegetables in this recipe, like carrots, cucumbers, and radishes, add a refreshing crunch that complements the tender shrimp and creamy mayo. You can switch these out for whatever you have on hand, such as bell peppers, edamame, or shredded cabbage.

Spicy Mayo

Spicy mayo is the star of this dish, delivering a rich and tangy flavor that ties all the elements together. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and feel free to substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Technique Tips

• Marinating Shrimp: Don’t skip the marinade, as it enhances the shrimp’s flavor. However, avoid marinating for longer than 15 minutes, as the acid can break down the shrimp’s texture.
• Cooking Shrimp Perfectly: Shrimp cook very quickly—overcooking can make them rubbery. Look for a pink color and a slight curl to know they’re done.
• Spicy Mayo Consistency: If your mayo is too thick, add a splash of water or lime juice to thin it out for easier drizzling.
• Presentation: Arrange the toppings neatly for a visually appealing bowl that’s Instagram-worthy!

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shrimp Sushi Bowls: Add pickled ginger, nori strips, and sushi rice for a sushi-inspired twist.
• Shrimp Wraps: Use the shrimp, vegetables, and spicy mayo as a filling for wraps or tortillas.
• Low-Carb Shrimp Bowls: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce for a keto-friendly version.
• Family-Style Platter: Serve the components separately on a large platter, allowing everyone to build their own bowl.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and vegetables make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
2. Double the Sauce: If you love spicy mayo, consider doubling the recipe so you have extra for dipping or drizzling.
3. Meal Prep Friendly: Store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Assemble bowls just before serving.
4. Season to Taste: Adjust the spice level in the mayo and the marinade based on your personal preference.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace shrimp with marinated tofu or roasted chickpeas, and use vegan mayonnaise for the spicy mayo.
• Teriyaki Shrimp Bowls: Swap the marinade for teriyaki sauce, and drizzle a bit of extra sauce over the finished bowl.
• Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls: Replace the spicy mayo with tzatziki, and add ingredients like olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
• Thai-Inspired Shrimp Bowls: Use jasmine rice, add chopped peanuts, and flavor the shrimp with Thai chili paste and lime juice.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

Store cooked shrimp, rice, and vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Spicy mayo can also be stored in the fridge for the same duration.

Freezer

Shrimp freezes well, but vegetables may lose their crispness when thawed. If you plan to freeze this meal, freeze the shrimp and rice together in individual portions, and add fresh vegetables when reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
• Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the spicy mayo for fewer calories and more protein.
• Add more greens, such as spinach or kale, for an extra nutrient boost.
• Reduce the amount of spicy mayo or use a drizzle of plain yogurt for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Lunch Gatherings: Serve these bowls as part of a build-your-own bowl station, letting guests choose their toppings.
• Dinner Parties: Arrange the bowls beautifully for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation.
• Outdoor BBQ: Grill the shrimp for a smoky flavor, and serve the bowls alongside grilled vegetables.
• Meal Prep Sessions: Prepare these bowls for a week’s worth of lunches or dinners that are easy to grab and go.

Special Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet or grill pan
• Rice cooker or instant pot (optional)
• Knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

2. How do I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo, or replace it with a mild chili sauce.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the rice, shrimp, and spicy mayo in advance. Store them separately and assemble the bowls when ready to serve.

4. What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine, basmati, or short-grain sushi rice all work well. For a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa.

5. Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy mayo.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the shrimp and rice before assembling.

7. What other proteins can I use?

Try chicken, tofu, or even seared scallops as a substitute for shrimp.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Shrimp rice bowls with spicy mayo are a simple yet satisfying meal that brings bold flavors and a healthy balance of nutrients to the table. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving them at a gathering, these bowls are sure to impress. With endless customization options and a quick prep time, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your rotation. Try it today and enjoy the perfect harmony of savory shrimp, creamy spicy mayo, and vibrant veggies!

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