Spicy Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowl (Print)

Bold Cajun shrimp and rice with crisp veggies and tangy avocado lime crema for a refreshing meal.

# Components:

→ Shrimp

01 - 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
04 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
07 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
08 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Rice

09 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
10 - 2 cups water
11 - 1/2 tsp salt

→ Vegetables & Toppings

12 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
13 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
14 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
15 - 1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
16 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
17 - 2 green onions, sliced
18 - 1 lime, cut into wedges

→ Avocado Lime Crema

19 - 1 large ripe avocado
20 - 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
21 - Juice of 1 lime
22 - 1 clove garlic, minced
23 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
24 - 1/4 tsp salt
25 - 2-3 tbsp water

# Directions:

01 - Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes for white rice or 40 minutes for brown rice, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
02 - In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
04 - In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add 2 tablespoons of water and continue blending, adding more water by the tablespoon as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
05 - Divide the cooked rice among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with the sautéed Cajun shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, thawed corn, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Drizzle generously with the avocado lime crema and garnish with lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses mostly pantry staples and fresh produce
  • Ready in about half an hour for busy weeknights
  • Packed with flavor and texture contrasts
  • Naturally gluten free with a dairy free option
  • Feels like comfort food but is light and nutritious
02 -
  • Bold Cajun flavor without heavy sauces
  • High protein and fiber
  • Customizable for family and guests
  • Keeps well for meal prep
03 -
  • Do not skip rinsing your rice it really makes a difference in texture
  • Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning for the best sear
  • Taste your Cajun seasoning before adding start with less if you are sensitive to salt or spice and adjust on the pan
  • Store crema in a jar with plastic wrap pressed over the surface to keep from browning
  • Leftover crema is fantastic as a veggie dip or taco topping the next day

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