Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Why You’ll Love Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa Recipe

This Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa Recipe is a flavor-packed meal that brings together the savory taste of shrimp, the softness of rice, and the sweetness of pineapple salsa. The combination of these ingredients offers a deliciously light yet filling option, and the tropical salsa adds a refreshing crunch. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual weekend gathering, this dish will quickly become a favorite on your recipe list!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 lime, juiced

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cups water or chicken broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt, to taste

For the Pineapple Salsa:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced

• ½ red onion, finely diced

• 1 small red bell pepper, diced

• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Prepare the Pineapple Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, and set aside to let the flavors meld together.

3. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and season with garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp before removing them from the heat.

4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Top with the cooked shrimp and a generous portion of the pineapple salsa.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Swap the Protein: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, you can easily swap it for grilled chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. Add Avocado: For extra creaminess, add sliced avocado on top of the rice bowl.

3. Spicy Twist: For more heat, add extra jalapeños to the salsa or drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the shrimp.

4. Coconut Rice: Add a can of coconut milk instead of water or broth for a rich and creamy base for your rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp, rice, and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water. Heat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

Can I make the pineapple salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. This will help the flavors develop further.

Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great substitute, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! You can add more jalapeño to the salsa or use a hot sauce to drizzle over the dish for a spicier kick.

What other fruits can I add to the salsa?

In addition to pineapple, you could add diced mango, peaches, or even strawberries to give the salsa a unique twist.

Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp?

Yes, you can use cooked shrimp, but be sure to warm them gently in the skillet to avoid overcooking them.

How do I prevent the shrimp from being overcooked?

Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

Instant rice works, but it may not have the same texture as long-grain rice. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.

Can I use other herbs in the salsa?

You can use other fresh herbs such as basil, mint, or parsley in place of cilantro to suit your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

The Shrimp & Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines all the right elements: savory shrimp, fluffy rice, and a bright, tangy salsa. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to meal prepping for the week ahead. With the tropical flavors of the pineapple salsa and the seasoned shrimp, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen!