Go Back
A vibrant spicy shrimp grain bowl topped with creamy avocado slices.

Classic Spicy Shrimp Grain Bowl with Avocado

This bowl features spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and fluffy quinoa, creating a delicious and healthy meal. It's an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2 bowls
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Grain Bowl
  • 1 cup quinoa about 3 cups cooked
  • 1 lb shrimp ≈ 450 g peeled, deveined, frozen, thawed
  • 1 avocado large, ripe, sliced
  • ½ cup cucumber diced (English cucumber preferred)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved (grape tomatoes are a good alternative)
  • ¼ cup shredded carrots (pre-shredded baby carrots can save time)
  • ¼ cup snap peas trimmed (snow peas are a good alternative)
Dressing & Seasoning
  • 2 Tbsp fresh cilantro chopped (basil or mint for a different herb profile)
  • 2 Tbsp lime juice (yuzu or lemon for a citrus twist)
  • 2 cloves minced garlic (½ tsp garlic powder if in a rush)
  • 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup (agave nectar for a vegan version)
  • 2 Tbsp soy sauce or tamari (low-sodium version)
  • 1 tsp chili garlic paste (Sambal Oelek) (adjust to heat)
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil (avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
  • Sea salt & black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Cooking Quinoa & Preparing Shrimp
  1. Cook quinoa according to package directions, then set aside.
  2. Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and black pepper.
Making the Spicy Sauce
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce (or tamari), and chili garlic paste.
Cooking the Shrimp
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked shrimp and toss to coat. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Assembling the Grain Bowls
  1. Divide the cooked quinoa into two serving bowls.
  2. Arrange the cooked shrimp, sliced avocado, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and snap peas over the quinoa.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy your classic spicy shrimp grain bowl.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or a different grain like brown rice or farro. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though avocado is best enjoyed fresh.