Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa

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Introduction

The Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is a vibrant, tropical-inspired dish that combines tender, spiced shrimp with fluffy rice and a refreshing, zesty pineapple salsa. This quick and easy recipe is packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal. The sweetness of the pineapple salsa beautifully complements the savory shrimp, creating a harmonious balance in every bite.

I remember the first time I made this dish for a casual family dinner. The bright colors and fresh aromas filled the kitchen, and everyone was eager to dive in. What’s great about this shrimp and rice bowl is how versatile it is—you can adjust the spiciness of the shrimp to your taste, or add extra veggies to the rice for even more flavor. The pineapple salsa adds a tropical flair, with its sweet and tangy notes bringing the dish to life.

This meal is surprisingly simple to prepare, too. With just a few key ingredients and a little prep time, you can have a delicious and refreshing meal ready in no time. Whether you’re craving a light dinner or looking to impress your guests with something unique, this Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Quick lunch
  • Summer gatherings
  • Healthy yet flavorful meals
  • Tropical food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why the Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa will become a favorite in your kitchen:

  • Tropical Flavor Fusion: Sweet, tangy pineapple salsa paired with spiced shrimp and rice creates an irresistible taste combination.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy schedules.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, whole grains, and fresh fruit, this dish is as good for you as it is delicious.
  • Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual meal or a festive gathering, this dish shines.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa:

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Pineapple Salsa:

  • 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Additional cilantro leaves
  • Sliced avocado (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Tender and quick-cooking, shrimp is the star protein of this dish.
  • Pineapple Salsa: Adds sweetness, tang, and a refreshing crunch.
  • Rice: Provides a neutral base that absorbs all the bold flavors.
  • Spices: Chili powder, paprika, and cumin enhance the shrimp with warmth and depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa:

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Rice:

  1. Cook the Rice: If not already cooked, prepare the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Add Lime Flavor: Stir in butter or olive oil (optional), lime zest, and lime juice for added flavor.

Prepare the Pineapple Salsa:

  1. Combine Salsa Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Bowls:

  1. Layer the Ingredients: Divide the rice evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with cooked shrimp and a generous scoop of pineapple salsa.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh lime wedges, cilantro leaves, and optional avocado slices. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

  • With Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside tortilla chips for scooping up salsa.
  • As Tacos: Use the shrimp, rice, and salsa as fillings for soft tacos.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • For Meal Prep: Store in separate containers and assemble fresh when ready to eat.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple delivers the best flavor, but canned can be used in a pinch.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so watch them closely while cooking.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the jalapeño to control the heat in the salsa.
  • Make Ahead: Prep the pineapple salsa and rice in advance to save time.

Recipe Variations

  1. Mango Shrimp Bowl with Pineapple Salsa
  2. Quinoa Shrimp Bowl with Pineapple Salsa
  3. Blackened Shrimp and Rice Bowl
  4. Coconut Rice with Shrimp and Mango Salsa
  5. Spicy Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Crema
  6. Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Tropical Salsa
  7. Brown Rice Shrimp Bowl with Corn Salsa
  8. Teriyaki Shrimp and Pineapple Bowl
  9. Shrimp and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
  10. Vegan Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of shrimp

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the cooked shrimp separately for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the salsa and shrimp in separate containers to preserve freshness.

Special Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Citrus juicer
  • Rice cooker (optional)

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw and pat dry before seasoning.
  2. Can I substitute the rice? Absolutely! Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice.
  3. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free.
  4. How spicy is the salsa? It depends on the jalapeño; adjust to your preference.
  5. Can I grill the shrimp instead? Yes, grilling adds a nice smoky flavor.

Conclusion

The Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the taste of the tropics right to your table. With tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and a zesty, sweet pineapple salsa, this bowl is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion. The tropical flavors of the pineapple salsa pair wonderfully with the savory shrimp, creating a bowl full of freshness and excitement in every bite.

I’d love to see how your Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!

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