Description
Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa
Ready for a burst of flavor? This Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is the perfect blend of savory, spicy, and tropical sweetness. Originating from the fusion of American and tropical flavors, this dish brings a refreshing twist to a classic shrimp bowl. The combination of air-fried shrimp, fluffy jasmine rice, and tangy pineapple salsa makes it ideal for a light and satisfying meal. Plus, the avocado cream adds the perfect finishing touch—creamy and slightly tangy. It’s an easy, healthy meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
1/2 lb large shrimp
1 cup Jasmine rice
1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
1 avocado
Pineapple Salsa:
1/3 pineapple, diced
1/4 red onion, diced
1 Roma tomato, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
Directions:
1. In a bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Air fry shrimp for 6 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Mix pineapple, red onion, cilantro, tomatoes, lime juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for the salsa.
4. To assemble, add rice, shrimp, pineapple salsa, and avocado slices.
5. Drizzle with avocado crema (blend avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, green onion, lime, salt, olive oil, and water).
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 450
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water. Cook according to package instructions, then fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat 1/2 lb of large shrimp dry. In a bowl, toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning, and salt and pepper to coat evenly.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 6 minutes, pausing to flip them halfway through, until pink and opaque.
4. Make the Salsa: While the shrimp cooks, combine diced pineapple, red onion, Roma tomato, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. Add the juice of one lime, a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently.
5. Make the Avocado Crema: In a blender or food processor, combine the flesh of one avocado, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, a handful of cilantro, one chopped green onion, juice of half a lime, a drizzle of olive oil, and a splash of water. Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed for a drizzling consistency.
6. Assemble: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with air-fried shrimp, a generous scoop of pineapple salsa, and sliced avocado. Drizzle with the avocado crema.
Serving Suggestions
This bowl is a complete meal, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy plantain chips or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. For a heartier option, add black beans or roasted sweet potatoes. Serve immediately while the shrimp are warm and the salsa is fresh.
How-to Summary
This dish involves four key components: cooking jasmine rice, seasoning and air-frying shrimp, making a fresh pineapple salsa, and blending a creamy avocado sauce. Assemble all components in a bowl for a vibrant, balanced meal ready in about 20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight, then pat them very dry before seasoning to ensure they cook properly in the air fryer.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can cook the shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil for 2-3 minutes per side, or bake them at 400°F for 8-10 minutes.
How do I store leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salsa and avocado crema are best fresh.
Can I make this dish spicier? Absolutely. Add a diced jalapeño to the salsa, increase the red pepper flakes, or add a dash of cayenne to the shrimp seasoning.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the crema? Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative will work well to achieve the same creamy, tangy base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this will steam the shrimp instead of giving them a slight crisp. Do not skip rinsing the jasmine rice, as this removes excess starch for fluffier grains. Finally, assemble the bowls just before serving to prevent the warm ingredients from wilting the fresh salsa.
Conclusion
This Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. It’s a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends. The combination of savory shrimp, sweet and spicy salsa, and creamy avocado is guaranteed to become a new favorite.