Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that bursts with flavor? Look no further than these Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls with Avocado Lime Cream. This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp marinated in zesty lemon and garlic, served over a fluffy bed of rice, and topped with a creamy avocado lime sauce. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep, this recipe is not only easy to make but also provides a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Let’s dive in and learn how to create this culinary delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, the Lemon Garlic Shrimp is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the fresh garlic and bright lemon juice that enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The optional red pepper flakes add a delightful kick that can be adjusted according to your spice tolerance. The marination process, which only takes about 20 minutes, allows the shrimp to absorb all those tasty flavors, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
Secondly, the Avocado Lime Cream elevates the dish to a whole new level. This creamy sauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, as avocados are rich in healthy fats and vitamins. The tangy lime juice complements the richness of the avocado, creating a perfect balance that ties the entire dish together. Plus, it’s easy to make just throw the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth!
Lastly, this meal is highly customizable. Feel free to substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. The Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls with Avocado Lime Cream are not just a treat for your taste buds, but they also make for a colorful and appealing presentation on your dinner table.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The easy preparation and cooking steps make it accessible for even novice cooks. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that your family will love.
Additionally, the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls with Avocado Lime Cream are not only delicious but also nutritious. The shrimp provide a lean source of protein, while the avocado offers heart-healthy fats, and the rice serves as a good source of energy. This combination makes it a well-rounded meal perfect for any time of the day.
This dish is also perfect for meal prep. You can cook the shrimp and rice ahead of time, and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat, assemble your bowls, and drizzle with that creamy avocado lime sauce. It’s a fantastic way to ensure you have a healthy meal ready to go, no matter how busy your week gets.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
- For the Lemon Garlic Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- For the Avocado Lime Cream:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Recommended Tools or Utensils for Recipe Success
- Large mixing bowl for marinating the shrimp
- Skillet or frying pan for cooking the shrimp
- Blender or food processor for making the avocado lime cream
- Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient quantities
- Serving bowls for assembling the rice bowls
- Spatula or tongs for flipping the shrimp while cooking
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the shrimp to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery very quickly.
- Make the Avocado Lime Cream: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days if you have leftovers!
- Assemble the Rice Bowls: In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of cooked rice. Top with the sautéed lemon garlic shrimp. Drizzle with avocado lime cream and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. The vibrant colors and flavors make this dish visually appealing and delicious!
- Serve: Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls with Avocado Lime Cream warm, and savor the bright flavors! Don’t forget to share with friends and family!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating. This will help maintain the flavor and texture of the shrimp.
What type of rice is best for this dish?
You can use either white or brown rice based on your preference. Brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients, while white rice provides a softer texture.
Can I prepare the avocado lime cream ahead of time?
Yes, the avocado lime cream can be made ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with these rice bowls?
These rice bowls pair well with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or even a light soup. You can also serve them with tortilla chips for a crunch!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls with Avocado Lime Cream is a must-try recipe that combines flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to comment below with your experiences or any variations you tried! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on social media and invite others to enjoy these delicious bowls.
For more delightful recipes, check out our Garlic Butter Shrimp Poppers or our Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls.
For more inspiration, visit my Pinterest page!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls with Avocado Lime Cream
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Skillet
- Blender or Food Processor
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 lemon Lemon zest
- 1 lemon Lemon juice
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups Cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 Ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 lime Lime juice
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of cooked rice. Top with the sautéed lemon garlic shrimp. Drizzle with avocado lime cream and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls warm, and savor the bright flavors!
