Looking for a quick, vibrant meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious? Look no further than this Garlic Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowl with Asparagus! Bursting with juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, tender asparagus, and fresh berries, this bowl is a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a balanced and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup fresh strawberries
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Asparagus
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1/2 tbsp olive oil. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Finish with fresh lemon juice.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowl
In a bowl, layer cooked rice as the base. Add shrimp, asparagus, avocado slices, blueberries, and strawberries.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Sprinkle with extra lemon juice and a dash of salt and pepper. Serve immediately!
Variations
- Grain Swap: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Add Greens: Include baby spinach or arugula for more greens.
- Vegan Option: Swap shrimp for crispy tofu.
- Extra Crunch: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed almonds.
Cooking Note
- Shrimp Perfection: Avoid overcooking to keep shrimp juicy and tender.
- Fresh Berries: Use in-season berries for the best flavor.
- Meal Prep: Cook rice and trim asparagus in advance for quick assembly.
Serving Suggestions
This bowl is complete on its own, but a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo or tangy yogurt sauce can elevate it further.
Pair with sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing drink!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet to keep them tender.
- Make Ahead: Cook rice and prepare shrimp in advance; assemble fresh when ready to eat.
Timing
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cooking Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Yield 2 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 30 g
Sodium 520 mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or skip extra salt.
- More Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Healthy Fats: Swap butter for extra-virgin olive oil.
- Carb-Friendly: Use cauliflower rice to lower carb intake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Shrimp: Watch shrimp closely to avoid rubbery texture.
- Crowding the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if needed for even cooking.
- Unripe Avocado: Use perfectly ripe avocado for creamy texture.
- Forgetting Freshness: Taste and adjust seasoning to bring out the fresh flavors.
Conclusion
There you have it – a Garlic Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowl that’s bright, fresh, and ready in a flash! Perfect for busy weeknights or a nutritious lunch.
Let us know how you enjoyed it! Share your photos and tag us so we can celebrate your delicious creation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just thaw completely before cooking and pat dry.
Q: What’s the best rice to use?
A: White or brown rice work well, or try jasmine rice for a fragrant option.
Q: Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Cook components separately and store; assemble fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Garlic Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowl with Asparagus
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A fresh and flavorful rice bowl with juicy garlic shrimp, creamy avocado, tender asparagus, and sweet berries – ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1/2 avocado, sliced
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1/4 cup fresh blueberries
1/4 cup fresh strawberries
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1/2 tbsp olive oil. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Season with salt and pepper.
2. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Finish with fresh lemon juice.
4. Layer cooked rice in a bowl. Add shrimp, asparagus, avocado slices, blueberries, and strawberries.
5. Season with extra lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately!
Notes
Avoid overcooking shrimp for the best texture.
Use perfectly ripe avocado for a creamy texture.
Prep rice and trim asparagus in advance for quicker assembly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, Assembling
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Garlic Shrimp & Avocado Rice Bowl, Healthy Shrimp Bowl, Fresh Dinner Bowl