This Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe is a perfect blend of fresh, bold flavors and simple ingredients that come together in under 35 minutes. Imagine tender, succulent shrimp cooked to perfection, nestled atop fluffy jasmine rice, with creamy avocado slices, crunchy shredded carrots, and zesty green onions playing supporting roles. Then, a luscious sauce made from mayo, sriracha, soy sauce, and a touch of lime juice adds a creamy, spicy kick that ties everything together beautifully. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it your new go-to for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has been chosen not just for its flavor but for how it complements the texture and visual appeal of the dish. From the juicy shrimp to the creamy mayo sauce, each component plays a crucial role in the overall experience of this vibrant rice bowl.
- 1 pound Shrimp (Fresh or frozen wild-caught): The star protein that cooks quickly and adds a tender, slightly sweet seafood flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Low-sodium for a healthier option): Brings a savory, umami punch to the shrimp marinade.
- 2 cups Cooked White Rice (Jasmine or short-grain preferred): Provides a fluffy, subtly fragrant base perfect for absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- 1 medium Avocado (Slice fresh just before serving): Adds creamy richness and a buttery texture that balances the spice.
- 1 cup Shredded Carrots (Bell peppers can be substituted): Offers a crisp, sweet contrast and a pop of vibrant color.
- 2 stalks Green Onions (Chives or shallots can be substitutes): Delivers a mild onion flavor that brightens the bowl.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Base for the sauce): Creates the silky creaminess in the mayo sauce, blending heat and tang.
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust for desired heat): Packs the saucy drizzle with spicy punch and a touch of smokiness.
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (Add to the sauce for flavor): Enhances depth in the creamy sauce while complementing the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (For added acidity): Brings brightness and a refreshing zing that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (For visual appeal and flavor): Adds a delicate nutty crunch and a pretty finishing touch.
- Salt & Pepper (Freshly ground pepper preferred): Essential seasonings that elevate the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (e.g., avocado oil or canola): Perfect for searing the shrimp without overpowering their delicate taste.
How to Make Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking your jasmine or short-grain white rice according to the package instructions. The key here is to achieve fluffy, slightly sticky rice that will serve as the comforting base for all the other ingredients in your bowl.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Mayo Sauce
While the rice cooks, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, and lime juice in a small mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced between spicy heat and bright acidity. Set this aside—you’ll be drizzling it over the finished bowl later.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. Season them generously with freshly ground salt and pepper. Heat your neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Look for a vibrant pink color and a slight crisp on the edges—this means they’re perfectly cooked.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Gather your cooked rice, seared shrimp, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions. Begin assembling by layering the warm rice in your bowls, followed by the shrimp, then the colorful veggies. This layering ensures you get delicious bites with every forkful.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle the creamy mayo sauce generously over the assembled bowl. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a lovely nutty crunch and appealing presentation. Serve immediately while everything is beautifully warm and fresh.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make your shrimp rice bowl truly special, go beyond the basic sesame seeds. Try adding a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note or a few thin slices of fresh red chili for an extra kick of heat. A wedge of lime on the side also allows each person to add a citrus burst if they like.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to create a fuller meal, consider serving with a light cucumber salad or a simple miso soup. These sides are gentle and refreshing companions that won’t compete with the vibrant flavors of the shrimp bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shrimp rice bowl in a hollowed-out avocado half or inside a bamboo bowl to bring an earthy, rustic vibe. Layering the ingredients in clear glass bowls can also show off all the colors and textures, turning your meal into a visual feast as well as a culinary one.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers of this Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe, store the shrimp and rice separately from the avocado and sauce in airtight containers. This prevents the avocado from browning and keeps the textures fresh for later enjoyment.
Freezing
While cooked shrimp and rice freeze well on their own, it’s best not to freeze the bowl fully assembled, especially with the creamy sauce and fresh veggies. Freeze the shrimp and rice separately if you want to keep them longer, then quickly reheat and assemble fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add the mayo sauce and fresh ingredients just before serving to maintain that irresistibly creamy texture and fresh bite.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to ensure a nice sear and the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this shrimp rice bowl?
You can swap shrimp for tofu or a medley of sautéed mushrooms to create a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times to suit your chosen protein.
How spicy is the creamy mayo sauce?
The heat level depends on how much sriracha you add. Feel free to start with a smaller amount and increase it to match your spice tolerance.
What kind of rice works best?
Jasmine or short-grain white rice provides the ideal balance of fluffiness and stickiness, but you can also try brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! The rice and mayo sauce can be made ahead of time. Keep shrimp fresh and cook just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen for its effortless preparation and bursting-with-flavor results. It’s perfect for days when you want something satisfying without spending hours cooking. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own delicious staple. Trust me, once you taste that creamy, spicy sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp and fresh veggies, this bowl will be a forever favorite too!
Print
Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American with Asian influence
Description
This Quick and Easy Shrimp Rice Bowl features perfectly cooked shrimp served over jasmine rice with fresh avocado, shredded carrots, and green onions, all topped with a creamy, spicy mayo sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Bowl
- 1 pound Shrimp (Fresh or frozen wild-caught)
- 2 cups Cooked White Rice (Jasmine or short-grain preferred)
- 1 medium Avocado (Slice fresh just before serving)
- 1 cup Shredded Carrots (Bell peppers can be substituted)
- 2 stalks Green Onions (Chives or shallots can be substitutes)
- Salt & Pepper, to taste (Freshly ground pepper preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (e.g., avocado oil or canola)
For the Creamy Mayo Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust for desired heat)
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (For visual appeal and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Low-sodium for a healthier option; used for marinating or seasoning shrimp)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the white rice following the package instructions, ensuring it’s fluffy and fully cooked. Set aside and keep warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, toss the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce for extra flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: Slice the avocado just before assembling the bowls. Shred the carrots and chop the green onions finely.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly into two bowls. Top with cooked shrimp, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions.
- Add Sauce and Garnish: Drizzle the creamy mayo sauce over each bowl, then sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the shrimp is warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor, but frozen shrimp works well too—just make sure to thaw completely.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- If you prefer, substitute white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
- Feel free to add other fresh veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free.
