Name: Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Sweet Mango Salsa Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp (Fresh or thawed; substitution: chicken, salmon, or crispy tofu); 2 tablespoons olive oil (Substitution: avocado oil); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Feel free to use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor); 1 teaspoon onion powder (Adjust to taste if using fresh onions); to taste salt (Always adjust based on dietary needs); to taste pepper (Always adjust based on dietary needs); 1 large mango (Substitutes: pineapple or peaches); 1/4 cup red onion (Swap with green onions or shallots); 1/4 cup cilantro (Substitution: parsley or mint); 2 tablespoons lime juice (Opt for fresh lime juice); 1 small jalapeño (Omit for milder flavor; substitute with bell peppers); 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (Substitution: sour cream); 1 tablespoon Sriracha (Adjust based on spice tolerance); 2 cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice (Swap for quinoa or leafy greens); 1 medium avocado (Substitute with silken tofu); 2 tablespoons sesame seeds or pepitas (Crushed nuts also work well)

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A vibrant splash of colors and flavors awaits you with this Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl topped with Sweet Mango Salsa! The juicy, grilled shrimp paired with a refreshing mango salsa and zesty lime-chili sauce create a delightful meal that transports you to sunny shores, even on the busiest days. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave something homemade yet quick. What’s more, it’s completely customizable—switch the shrimp for chicken, salmon, or tofu and swap rice for healthier bases like cauliflower rice. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this bowl is bound to impress. So, are you ready to dive into these delicious Mediterranean flavors?

Why is the Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl a Must-try?

Vibrant Flavors: The combination of grilled shrimp, sweet mango, and zesty lime-chili sauce creates a hit of flavor that will brighten your mealtime.
Customizable Delight: Perfect for any dietary preference, easily swap shrimp for grilled chicken or crispy tofu.
Quick & Easy: Whip this bowl up in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Health-Conscious: Gluten-free and packed with protein, this recipe caters to your wellness without sacrificing taste.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve it up at gatherings or family dinners for a dish that’s sure to impress everyone, similar to my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce or Sausage and Sweet Potatoes with Honey Garlic Sauce that also delivers big on flavor!

Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl Ingredients

• Dive into the magic of this Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Sweet Mango Salsa!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Fresh or thawed; this protein-packed star brings the dish to life. Substitution: Chicken, salmon, or crispy tofu for a vegan experience.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve a perfect sear on shrimp. Substitution: Avocado oil for a different flavor.
Garlic Powder – Elevates taste; a pantry staple in your seasoning arsenal. Feel free to use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
Onion Powder – Complements the shrimp; adds depth to your seasoning mix. Adjust to taste if using fresh onions.
Salt & Pepper – Essential to bring out the natural flavors. Always adjust based on dietary needs.

For the Mango Salsa

Mango – Sweet and juicy; the heart of your refreshing salsa. Substitutes: Pineapple or peaches for a fruity twist.
Red Onion – Crunchy and sharp; a lovely contrast in texture. Swap with green onions or shallots if desired.
Cilantro – Fresh herb brightening every bite of the salsa. Substitution: Try parsley or mint for a different herbal note.
Lime Juice – Adds the much-needed acidity for balance. Opt for fresh lime juice for maximum zestiness.
Jalapeño – Optional heat for those who like a kick. Omit for milder flavor; substitute with bell peppers for a sweet crunch.

For the Lime-Chili Sauce

Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt – Creamy base that pulls the sauce together. Substitution: Sour cream for a tangy alternative.
Sriracha – Adds heat to the sauce; adjust based on spice tolerance. You can replace it with any hot sauce you prefer or reduce for no heat.

For the Base

Cooked Rice or Cauliflower Rice – The perfect foundation for your bowl, offering texture and substance. Swap for quinoa or a bed of leafy greens for a low-carb choice.
Avocado – Creamy garnish that elevates the dish’s richness. Substitute with silken tofu for a dairy-free option.

For Garnishing

Sesame Seeds or Pepitas – Add a delightful crunch on top. Crushed nuts also work well for texture and flavor enhancement.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Sweet Mango Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss fresh or thawed shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and slightly caramelized, signaling they are perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Make Mango Salsa
While the shrimp cooks, prepare the Sweet Mango Salsa. In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, minced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and finely chopped jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper, then gently mix to combine. Allow the salsa to sit for at least 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Create Lime-Chili Sauce
For the zesty lime-chili sauce, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth, adjusting the spiciness to your preference. Set aside so the flavors can develop while you finish the bowl.

Step 4: Assemble Bowls
To assemble your Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl, start with a generous layer of cooked rice or cauliflower rice as the base. Then, artfully arrange the grilled shrimp on top, followed by creamy avocado slices and a hearty scoop of the sweet mango salsa for a refreshing contrast. Drizzle generously with the zesty lime-chili sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, add the finishing touches to your bowl. Top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges for an extra zesty kick, and a sprinkle of chili flakes or sesame seeds for crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of your Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Sweet Mango Salsa.

Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe; your culinary creativity makes each bite a new adventure!

Protein Swaps: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or pan-seared salmon for a different protein experience. Both options bring their unique flavors to the bowl!
Vegan Option: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu marinated in your favorite spices for a satisfying plant-based alternative. This switch keeps all the vibrant flavors intact while being kinder to the earth.
Base Alternatives: Swap traditional rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of fresh leafy greens to lighten up the dish. Adding greens brings a beautiful crunch and freshness to your meal.
Salsa Variations: Experiment with tropical fruits like pineapple or peaches in your salsa for a delightful twist—each one adds its own sweetness and zest, keeping things exciting!
Heat Adjustments: Customize the heat level by adding more or less Sriracha in the dressing according to your taste. You can even switch it out for a milder hot sauce if that’s more your speed.
Herb Swap: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, parsley or mint will brighten up your salsa just as well, adding a fragrant note that enhances the overall dish without overpowering it.
Garnish Ideas: Top your bowl with toasted nuts or seeds instead of sesame seeds for a crunchy alternative. It adds a lovely texture contrast while boosting the nutritional profile.
Creamy Alternatives: Use a dairy-free yogurt instead of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for the sauce, making it fully plant-based without losing any creaminess.

These variations not only enhance your dish but can also change your entire dining experience. For other delicious inspirations, consider trying my Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Corn Salsa Creamy Sauce or exploring the flavors in my Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid toughness by grilling shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—around 2-3 minutes per side is ideal.
Flavor Boosting Salsa: Let your mango salsa sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and allow them to meld beautifully.
Prevent Browning: To keep your avocado fresh, store it separately with a splash of lime juice until you’re ready to garnish the Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl.
Easy Meal Prep: Marinate the shrimp and prepare your salsa ahead of time. Both can be made a day in advance for a quick dinner.
Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to customize the bowl with your choice of protein—chicken, tofu, or salmon—and different bases like cauliflower rice for a healthful twist!

Storage Tips for Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl

Fridge: Store leftover Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl components—shrimp, rice, and salsa—in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp and rice in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Gently reheat shrimp and rice in a microwave or stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water to the rice to prevent dryness. Avoid reheating the salsa to preserve its fresh taste and texture.

Avocado: Store sliced avocado separately with lime juice to prevent browning; it is best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Mango Salsa

Elevate your dining experience by creating a delightful meal that brings out the vibrant flavors of this refreshing dish.

Cucumber Salad: A light and crunchy cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp and helps cleanse the palate. The fresh veggies add a delightful crunch to every bite.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herby, grain-based side, filled with fresh parsley and mint, provides a refreshing contrast to the succulent shrimp, enriching your bowl with Mediterranean flavors.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Charred veggies, like zucchini and bell peppers, add a smoky element that pairs wonderfully with the sweet mango salsa, enhancing the rainbow of flavors in your meal.
Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is an indulgent way to scoop up every bite of shrimp and salsa. Its crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado.
Lychee Iced Tea: A refreshing drink infused with lychee will balance the proteins and add a hint of floral sweetness. It’s a perfect companion to this vibrant dish.
Pistachio Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with this flaky dessert. The rich nut filling complements the light, zesty shrimp bowl beautifully, creating a memorable dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls with Sweet Mango Salsa are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. The mango salsa can be prepared a day ahead as well; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. To maintain quality, remember to slice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. When ready to enjoy, simply grill the shrimp and assemble the bowls with rice or cauliflower rice, layer on that colorful salsa, and drizzle with lime-chili sauce for a quick, delicious meal!

Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Sweet Mango Salsa Recipe FAQs

How can I select ripe mangoes for the salsa?
Absolutely! When choosing mangoes, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet fragrance. If the skin has a bit of red or yellow color, that’s a good sign, too! Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as they might be overripe.

What is the best way to store leftover Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl components?
Very! Store leftover shrimp, rice, and salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, each ingredient retains its freshness. To keep avocado from browning, store it with a splash of lime juice in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the components of the Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl?
Certainly! To freeze, place cooked shrimp and rice in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. They will maintain quality for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on low heat.

What if my shrimp turns out tough? How can I avoid this?
Great question! To ensure perfectly tender shrimp, cook them just until they’re pink and opaque—typically about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. If they cook too long, they can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them for best results!

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute shrimp with crispy tofu marinated in spices for a delightful vegan take on the Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl. Using a variety of vegetables as a base, like cauliflower rice or a mix of leafy greens, will also keep the dish fresh and light!

Is this dish suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Very! The Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Sweet Mango Salsa is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect meal for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to check any sauce labels if using store-bought items to ensure they’re gluten-free!