If you’re craving something that bursts with flavor yet feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, this Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines succulent, perfectly seared shrimp with fluffy rice, vibrant veggies, and a luscious creamy mayo sauce that has just the right amount of spicy zing. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual lunch, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself making over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind this simple yet delicious dish. Each component plays a key role in developing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe so satisfying.
- 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp: Choose fresh or frozen, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and that perfect sear.
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice: Jasmine or short-grain rice works great to give you a fluffy, slightly sticky base.
- 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil: Avocado or canola oil provides a clean taste and makes sure shrimp cooks evenly without burning.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce: This boosts umami flavor and seasons both shrimp and sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation for the sauce, adding richness and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha: Kicks up the mayo sauce with a pleasant spicy tang.
- 1 teaspoon Lime Juice: Brings brightness and balances the creamy heat of the sauce.
- 1 Avocado: Sliced to add a smooth, buttery texture and wholesome fats.
- 1/2 cup Shredded Carrots: Provides a sweet crunch and lovely orange color to the bowl.
- 1/3 cup Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh, mild bite that complements the shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon Black Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled on top for a nutty finish and striking presentation.
How to Make Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry to ensure a good sear. Toss the shrimp gently with the salt, black pepper, and one tablespoon of soy sauce to infuse a savory base flavor. Heat your neutral oil in a pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque with a slight golden crust.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the shrimp cooks, ensure your rice is ready. If making from scratch, rinse your jasmine or short-grain rice well before cooking so it turns out fluffy and tender. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and keep it warm, ready to form the comforting bed for your shrimp and toppings.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mayo Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and remaining soy sauce. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This sauce creates the perfect cooling yet spicy contrast to the warm savory shrimp and adds a delightful richness to every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Toppings
Slice the avocado into thin, even slices to maintain texture and visual appeal. Shred the carrots finely to add a fresh crunch. Chop the green onions, both white and green parts, to give a mild but distinct flavor lift.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Start with a generous helping of rice as the base. Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly on top, then layer in the avocado slices and shredded carrots. Drizzle the creamy mayo sauce over everything thoughtfully, not too much so you still get the integrity of each ingredient. Sprinkle the green onions and black sesame seeds over the top for the finishing touches.
How to Serve Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing elevates your bowl visually and texturally. Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of extra lime juice adds a zesty freshness. Thinly sliced red chili peppers can amp up the heat for those who like it spicy. Don’t forget the black sesame seeds to give that elegant, nutty finish.
Side Dishes
This shrimp rice bowl pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for tang and crunch. A simple miso soup or seaweed salad is also a fantastic choice to keep the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this bowl in colorful ceramic bowls to highlight the bright ingredients. You can also customize it by adding a fried egg on top for extra richness or swap the white rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb twist. For gatherings, assemble a shrimp rice bowl bar so everyone can build their own, making it interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp, rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This helps maintain the shrimp’s texture and prevents the rice from getting soggy. Use within two days for the best taste.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze the assembled bowl due to the creamy sauce and avocado, which don’t freeze well. However, you can freeze cooked shrimp and plain cooked rice separately for up to one month. Thaw and reheat gently when ready to save prep time.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp quickly in a pan over medium heat to avoid toughness, or warm them gently in the microwave alongside the rice. Add fresh avocado and drizzle with the mayo sauce just before serving to keep flavors vibrant and textures fresh.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking to get a nice sear and avoid excess water making your dish soggy.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative if you’d prefer a lighter or dairy-free option—just keep the same proportions for a creamy finish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
What type of rice works best?
Jasmine rice is ideal for its aromatic qualities and fluffy texture, but short-grain rice also works well if you prefer a stickier base.
How spicy is the creamy mayo sauce?
The sauce has a mild to moderate kick depending on how much sriracha you add; adjust the sriracha to suit your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
Making the Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe is like giving yourself a deliciously rewarding meal that feels both special and totally achievable. It’s a beautiful balance of textures, flavors, and colors that will quickly become a household favorite. Don’t hesitate to dive in and customize it your way—you’ll love the cozy, satisfying magic it brings to your table every single time.
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Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Savory Shrimp Rice Bowl with Creamy Mayo Sauce is a quick and easy meal bursting with flavor. Featuring perfectly seared shrimp seasoned with soy sauce and black pepper, served over fluffy jasmine rice, and topped with a zesty, spicy mayo sauce, fresh avocado slices, shredded carrots, green onions, and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner that combines savory, creamy, and fresh textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Rice
- 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp (fresh or frozen, wild-caught recommended)
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice (jasmine or short-grain)
- 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil (avocado or canola oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
Creamy Mayo Sauce
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- 1 teaspoon Lime Juice
Toppings
- 1 Avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup Shredded Carrots
- 1/3 cup Green Onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Black Sesame Seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Cook the jasmine or short-grain rice according to package instructions until fluffy and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the creamy mayo sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the Sriracha to your desired spice level. Set aside.
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and soy sauce to evenly coat them and enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the shrimp: Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink, opaque, and slightly caramelized.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the warm cooked rice between four bowls. Top each bowl with the seared shrimp, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and green onions.
- Add the finishing touches: Drizzle the creamy mayo sauce over each bowl and sprinkle with black sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and added visual appeal.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the bowl warm for the best flavor and texture, savoring the combination of creamy, savory, spicy, and fresh elements.
Notes
- For best shrimp flavor, use wild-caught shrimp if possible.
- You can swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
- Adjust Sriracha quantity to control the spice level of the sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by cooking shrimp and rice in advance; assemble just before serving.
- Feel free to add other veggies like cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch.
