Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls with Creamy Mayo Drizzle

This Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowl combines tender, flavorful shrimp with fluffy jasmine rice, bright fresh vegetables, and a luscious drizzle of spicy mayo that brings it all together. The vivid colors of purple cabbage, orange carrots, and creamy avocado create an inviting, Instagram-worthy presentation that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a colorful lunch bowl, this recipe balances heat and creaminess perfectly while remaining simple to prepare. It’s an ideal dish for seafood lovers looking to elevate a simple rice bowl into something vibrant and full of zest.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Spicy Mayo Sauce:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon lime juice

Directions:

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice to make the spicy mayo sauce. Adjust spiciness to your preference.

4. Divide cooked jasmine rice into serving bowls.

5. Top each bowl with cooked shrimp, sliced avocado, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and green onions.

6. Drizzle spicy mayo generously over the top.

7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a finishing touch, if using.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

The Origins and Inspiration Behind Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls

Rice bowls have long been a popular and versatile dish across many cultures, especially in Asian cuisine. The idea of combining a hearty base like rice with protein and fresh vegetables creates a balanced, satisfying meal that is both convenient and adaptable. Shrimp rice bowls, in particular, take advantage of seafood’s natural sweetness and delicate texture, which pairs beautifully with vibrant vegetables and bold sauces.

This recipe draws inspiration from Japanese and Korean bowls, often called “donburi” or “bibimbap,” where rice acts as the canvas for colorful toppings and rich, flavorful sauces. The addition of spicy mayo – a creamy blend of mayonnaise and sriracha – adds a modern twist, providing a luxurious, tangy heat that elevates the entire dish. The fusion of mild jasmine rice with spicy shrimp and fresh avocado creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this dish appealing to a wide range of palates.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

One of the best features of this shrimp rice bowl recipe is its simplicity and speed. With a total time of just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s an excellent choice for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Shrimp cooks quickly, which significantly cuts down preparation time compared to other proteins like chicken or beef.

The recipe requires minimal ingredients that are easy to find at most grocery stores, making it accessible and budget-friendly. Plus, the ingredients lend themselves well to meal prepping — you can cook the rice and shrimp in advance, store the veggies separately, and assemble your bowls fresh when ready to eat. This flexibility makes the recipe ideal for those trying to maintain healthy eating habits amidst a hectic schedule.

Nutritional Benefits of Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls

Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It is also low in calories and fat while providing important nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. These minerals support immune function, cognitive health, and thyroid regulation.

Pairing shrimp with jasmine rice offers a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to fuel your day. Jasmine rice, a fragrant long-grain rice, is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest, making it a great option for all ages. The addition of fresh vegetables like purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and avocado increases the fiber content of the meal, aiding digestion and helping you feel fuller longer.

Avocado is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. It also contains vitamins C, E, K, and several B vitamins, contributing to overall health and skin vitality. The cabbage and carrots offer antioxidants and phytonutrients, supporting detoxification and promoting a strong immune system.

The spicy mayo sauce, made with sriracha and mayonnaise, adds flavor without overwhelming the healthfulness of the dish when used in moderation. Sriracha contains chili peppers that can boost metabolism and improve circulation.

Balanced Flavors and Textures That Delight the Palate

What truly makes this recipe stand out is the harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. The shrimp is lightly seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder, which provide subtle smokiness and depth without overshadowing the natural sweetness of the seafood.

The jasmine rice is fluffy and fragrant, acting as a neutral base that soaks up the sauce’s creaminess and the shrimp’s spice. Fresh vegetables like crunchy cabbage and sweet carrots add contrast, making the dish more interesting to the palate.

The avocado slices introduce a buttery, creamy texture that complements the crisp vegetables and tender shrimp. The spicy mayo drizzle ties everything together with a mild heat and tangy richness, creating a mouthwatering finish.

This layering of textures and tastes keeps each bite dynamic and satisfying, making it a meal you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Customizable and Adaptable for All Dietary Preferences

One of the great strengths of this shrimp rice bowl recipe is its adaptability. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the sriracha in the spicy mayo sauce. For a vegan or vegetarian version, substitute the shrimp with marinated tofu or sautéed mushrooms and use vegan mayo.

You can swap jasmine rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you want to increase fiber or reduce carbohydrates. Additionally, feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have available — bell peppers, snap peas, cucumbers, or edamame would all work beautifully.

For those who love a bit of crunch, topping the bowls with toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts adds an extra layer of texture and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the mayo.

Why Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls Are a Crowd-Pleaser

This dish has something for everyone — it’s quick, fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing. The bold, spicy mayo combined with sweet, juicy shrimp creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Because it’s served in a bowl, it’s also convenient to eat, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.

It works well for solo meals, family dinners, or casual entertaining. The vibrant colors and attractive plating also make it perfect for food photos if you enjoy sharing your cooking on social media or food blogs.

Tips for Making the Best Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls

• Use fresh shrimp whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw thoroughly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook fast and can become rubbery if left on heat too long.

• Cook the jasmine rice ahead of time and fluff it with a fork before assembling your bowls to keep it light and airy.

• Adjust the spice level of the mayo sauce to your liking — start with less sriracha and add more gradually.

• Serve immediately after assembling for the freshest texture and best flavor contrast between creamy, crunchy, and tender components.

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowls with Creamy Mayo Drizzle are an exceptional recipe that ticks all the boxes: easy to make, nutritious, packed with flavor, and beautiful to serve. They offer a wonderful way to enjoy seafood with fresh vegetables and an exciting sauce that brings the whole dish together. Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious eater, or just someone looking to add a delicious new dish to your rotation, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs without sacrificing the bold, bright flavors that make it so memorable.