Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors! If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with tropical vibes and a touch of spice, you’re in the right place. This Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa is not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Imagine succulent shrimp, fragrant jasmine rice, and a zesty pineapple salsa all coming together in one vibrant bowl. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
Incorporating the essence of island flavors, this Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa brings a refreshing twist to your typical rice bowl. The combination of juicy shrimp, sweet pineapple, and creamy avocado is a nod to tropical cuisine, making this dish a perfect choice for a summer meal or when you simply want to escape to a warmer place.
This recipe is particularly special because it balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in a way that’s both satisfying and unique. The shrimp, seasoned with Old Bay and garlic, pairs perfectly with the fresh pineapple salsa, which adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa, you’ll need:
- 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, to taste
- Olive oil
- 1 avocado
For the 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 and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
How to Make the Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa:
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, drizzle the shrimp with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are well coated.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Air fry the shrimp for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Pineapple Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, tomato, and cilantro. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Mix well, taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Rice Bowl: To assemble, place a layer of cooked Jasmine rice in a bowl. Top with the air-fried shrimp, pineapple salsa, and avocado slices.
- Optional Topping: Finish with a drizzle of avocado crema if desired, and enjoy your tropical escape in a bowl!
Helpful Tips
- Cooking the Rice: For perfectly fluffy Jasmine rice, rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Shrimp Tips: Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with seasoning by tossing them in a mixing bowl. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Salsa Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter salsa, add more pineapple. For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño.
Cooking Tips
- Enhancing the Flavor: To enhance the flavor of the shrimp, marinate them for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This allows the seasonings to penetrate deeper, making each bite more flavorful.
- Equipment Suggestions: While an air fryer is recommended for this recipe, you can also grill or sauté the shrimp for a slightly different texture. A food processor can help finely chop the ingredients for the salsa if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Beverage: Serve this dish with a chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, or a tropical cocktail such as a Piña Colada to complement the vibrant flavors.
- Complete the Meal: To make it a more filling meal, add a side of black beans or a light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
- Presentation Ideas: For an Instagram-worthy presentation, serve the rice bowl in a hollowed-out pineapple half. This adds a fun and tropical touch to your meal!
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 470mg
- Potassium: 380mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 500 IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 2mg
This Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl is not only delicious but also nutritious. The shrimp provides a good source of protein while the avocado and olive oil contribute healthy fats. The pineapple salsa adds a dose of vitamin C, making this a well-rounded meal that supports your immune system and overall health.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp, rice, and salsa in separate containers to maintain their freshness.
Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat the rice and shrimp in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. The salsa is best served fresh but can be added cold to the warm rice and shrimp for a delightful contrast.
Creative Leftovers: Transform the leftovers into a refreshing shrimp salad by mixing the shrimp and salsa with some greens and a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, wrap the ingredients in a tortilla for a quick and tasty shrimp wrap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem! You can grill the shrimp on a grill pan or sauté them in a skillet over medium-high heat until they’re opaque and cooked through.
Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pineapple salsa can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This can actually enhance the flavors as they have more time to meld together.
Is there a substitute for pineapple?
If you’re not a fan of pineapple, mango is a great alternative. It offers a similar sweetness and tropical flavor that pairs well with the shrimp.
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Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and eating this Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa as much as we enjoyed sharing it with you! This recipe is a perfect way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table, no matter where you are. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so don’t hesitate to share your experience or any creative twists you made to the dish. Happy cooking!
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Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa
Description
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors! If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with tropical vibes and a touch of spice, you’re in the right place. This Tropical Shrimp Rice Bowl with Zesty Pineapple Salsa is not just a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Imagine succulent shrimp, fragrant jasmine rice, and a zesty pineapple salsa all coming together in one vibrant bowl. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 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, to taste
- Olive oil
- 1 avocado
For the 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 and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, drizzle the shrimp with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are well coated.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Air fry the shrimp for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Pineapple Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, tomato, and cilantro. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Mix well, taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Rice Bowl: To assemble, place a layer of cooked Jasmine rice in a bowl. Top with the air-fried shrimp, pineapple salsa, and avocado slices.
- Optional Topping: Finish with a drizzle of avocado crema if desired, and enjoy your tropical escape in a bowl!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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- Cooking the Rice: For perfectly fluffy Jasmine rice, rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Shrimp Tips: Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with seasoning by tossing them in a mixing bowl. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Salsa Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter salsa, add more pineapple. For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño.
