This Garlic Butter Shrimp & Pineapple Rice Bowl is a delightful fusion of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Juicy, air-fried shrimp are coated in aromatic seasonings, then served over fluffy jasmine rice for a satisfying base. The dish is taken to the next level with a vibrant pineapple salsa, balancing sweetness with a zesty kick from fresh lime and red pepper flakes. A drizzle of creamy avocado crema ties everything together, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re a fan of mild flavors or enjoy a spicy kick, this bowl can be easily customized to your taste. Plus, it’s a perfect meal-prep option for busy weeknights. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this shrimp bowl will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Full Recipe:
For the Shrimp:
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, cleaned and deveined
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
For the Pineapple Salsa:
- 1/3 pineapple, diced
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
For the Avocado Crema:
- 1/2 avocado
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 green onion stems
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup water (adjust for consistency)
Directions:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, add the shrimp, drizzle with olive oil, and season with Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss well to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water.
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to low heat. Simmer for 20 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Make the Pineapple Salsa:
- In a bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, Roma tomato, and cilantro.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir well and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Place shrimp in a single layer and air-fry for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make the Avocado Crema:
- Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, green onions, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add water gradually for desired consistency.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- In a bowl, layer jasmine rice, cooked shrimp, pineapple salsa, and avocado slices.
- Drizzle with avocado crema.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 2
Garlic Butter Shrimp & Pineapple Rice Bowl: A Flavorful and Easy Meal
The Garlic Butter Shrimp & Pineapple Rice Bowl is a vibrant, satisfying dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of shrimp with the tropical sweetness of pineapple salsa. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a nutritious lunch, or a dish to impress guests, this bowl has it all. The combination of tender shrimp, fragrant jasmine rice, and fresh toppings makes it a must-try for seafood lovers and health-conscious eaters alike.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish is designed to be both easy to make and packed with flavor. The shrimp is coated in a simple yet bold seasoning blend and cooked in the air fryer, ensuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior without excess oil. The rice serves as a perfect base, soaking up the flavors from the shrimp and avocado crema. Meanwhile, the pineapple salsa adds a bright, tangy contrast that balances the dish beautifully.
A key advantage of this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize the spice level, switch up the rice for a lower-carb alternative like cauliflower rice, or even add extra toppings like black beans or grilled corn. It’s a dish that adapts to your taste while remaining incredibly delicious.
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
One of the standout elements of this dish is the shrimp itself. Cooking shrimp in the air fryer is a game-changer because it allows for even cooking and a slightly crispy texture without drying out the shrimp. The key to getting it just right is marinating the shrimp in a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Letting the shrimp rest for a few minutes before cooking helps the flavors absorb, ensuring a deeper taste in every bite.
Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it’s important not to overcook it. At 380°F (190°C), shrimp typically need only about six minutes in the air fryer, flipped halfway through. Once they turn a vibrant pink and are slightly firm to the touch, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keeping an eye on the cooking time is crucial.
The Role of Pineapple Salsa
The pineapple salsa is what truly elevates this dish. It adds a sweet and tangy element that cuts through the richness of the shrimp and avocado crema. Fresh pineapple provides natural sweetness, while red onion and Roma tomatoes contribute a slight bite and juiciness. The lime juice brings acidity, enhancing the overall freshness of the salsa.
Red pepper flakes can be added for an extra kick, making the salsa more dynamic and complementing the savory shrimp. This salsa can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious topping.
A Creamy and Refreshing Avocado Crema
To tie everything together, the avocado crema offers a rich and creamy texture that balances the dish. The blend of avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil creates a silky smooth sauce that enhances every bite. The crema also helps cool down the heat from the red pepper flakes in the salsa, making each mouthful perfectly balanced.
Avocado crema is extremely versatile and can be used as a dressing for other dishes like tacos, grilled meats, or even as a dip for chips. Making it in advance and storing it in the fridge ensures it’s ready to drizzle over meals whenever needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, it’s a balanced meal.
- Full of Flavor: A mix of bold spices, sweet pineapple, and creamy avocado ensures every bite is satisfying.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice, or add more toppings to suit your preference.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare all components in advance and assemble quickly for a hassle-free meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored properly to maintain their quality. Store the shrimp, rice, salsa, and avocado crema separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat the shrimp, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about two minutes or warm them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving shrimp, as it can make them rubbery. The rice can be reheated in the microwave with a small splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
The pineapple salsa and avocado crema are best enjoyed cold, so they don’t require reheating. Just give them a good stir before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
If you love the idea of this dish but want to tweak it, here are a few great variations:
- Make it Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the shrimp seasoning for extra heat.
- Swap the Protein: Use grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu instead of shrimp.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice or a bed of fresh greens.
- Extra Toppings: Black beans, corn, or a sprinkle of queso fresco can enhance the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
While this meal is a complete dish on its own, it pairs well with light and refreshing side dishes. A simple cucumber and tomato salad, roasted vegetables, or a citrusy slaw would complement the flavors beautifully. For drinks, a fresh lemonade, coconut water, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the tropical notes in the meal.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Shrimp & Pineapple Rice Bowl is a winning combination of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and easy preparation. It’s a recipe that brings together sweetness, spice, and creamy richness in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.
By making this meal at home, you’re not only enjoying a healthier alternative to takeout but also embracing a dish that’s incredibly satisfying and adaptable. Give it a try, experiment with different ingredients, and make it your own—because a great meal is all about enjoying flavors that make you happy!