Blackened Shrimp Bowls are a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with protein, whole grains, and vibrant veggies, these bowls come together in minutes and are ideal for meal prep or busy weeknights. Spiced shrimp are seared to perfection and served over a bed of brown rice with a zesty corn salad and creamy avocado. Whether you keep it classic or mix in your favorite toppings like mango, guac, or salsa, this dish is versatile and delicious any way you serve it.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brown rice

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed

• 1½ tsp cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 1 cup fire-roasted corn

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish

• Juice of 1 lime, divided

• 1 avocado, thinly sliced

Directions

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until opaque and slightly charred, about 2–3 minutes per side.

3. In a separate bowl, mix corn, red pepper, and cilantro. Add 1 tbsp olive oil, juice of half a lime, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Divide cooked brown rice among 4 bowls. Top each with shrimp, corn salad, and ¼ sliced avocado.

5. Garnish with additional cilantro, squeeze remaining lime juice over the top, and serve.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 520mg

• Cholesterol: 180mg

• Potassium: 600mg

The Magic of Blackened Shrimp

The blackening technique is what brings bold flavor to this bowl without relying on heavy sauces or marinades. A combination of spices like cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder coat the shrimp and give them a dark, slightly charred exterior once seared in a hot skillet. This crust locks in the juices while delivering a smoky, spicy kick with every bite.

Shrimp are ideal for this cooking method—they’re quick to cook, naturally tender, and a blank canvas for whatever seasoning you throw their way. The result is a savory protein with a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the cooler, fresher elements in the bowl.

Whole Grains for Sustained Energy

The base of these bowls is brown rice, which adds heartiness and nutritional depth to the dish. As a whole grain, brown rice contains more fiber and nutrients than white rice, making it a smart choice for those looking to support digestive health and maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.

Its nutty flavor and chewy texture also provide a satisfying backdrop for the vibrant toppings. Plus, brown rice is naturally gluten-free, making this bowl suitable for a wide variety of dietary needs.

Zesty Corn Salad for a Fresh Twist

One of the highlights of this bowl is the corn salad—a bright, crunchy mix that balances out the heat from the shrimp. Fire-roasted corn adds a touch of smokiness and sweetness, while diced red bell pepper brings both color and crunch. Freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice give the salad a vibrant, citrusy lift.

This simple salad adds more than just flavor—it’s a source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C. It also brings texture and balance to the dish, enhancing both the nutritional profile and the overall eating experience.

Creamy Avocado for Healthy Fats

No bowl is complete without avocado, and in this case, it’s the ingredient that brings everything together. Its creamy, cool texture contrasts the heat of the blackened shrimp and adds richness without heaviness. Avocado is also a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber.

Whether you add thin slices or a dollop of guacamole, avocado makes the bowl feel complete, adding luxury to every bite and supporting satiety so you feel full longer.

Ideal for Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Meals

One of the biggest advantages of Blackened Shrimp Bowls is their meal-prep friendliness. You can prepare the components ahead of time—cook the rice, toss together the corn salad, and even cook the shrimp—then assemble them when ready to eat. The flavors hold up well, and the textures stay fresh for several days when stored properly.

This makes it a great recipe for busy weeks when you want something fast, nourishing, and delicious. Simply reheat the rice and shrimp, or enjoy it cold if preferred, and top with freshly sliced avocado and lime juice right before serving.

Customizable to Fit Every Preference

The base recipe is delicious on its own, but it’s also incredibly flexible. Looking to add more veggies? Toss in shredded cabbage, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini. Want to switch up the grain? Try quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can even replace the shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or tempeh for a different protein twist.

Toppings offer another layer of creativity. A spoonful of mango salsa, a drizzle of chipotle crema, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can completely transform the bowl while still complementing the original flavors. The possibilities are endless, which makes this recipe ideal for feeding a household with diverse tastes.

Nutrient-Packed and Well-Balanced

Blackened Shrimp Bowls are not only flavorful—they’re also nutritionally well-rounded. Each bowl delivers a strong dose of lean protein from shrimp, healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, complex carbs from brown rice, and fiber from the corn and veggies. This balance helps keep blood sugar levels stable and provides long-lasting energy.

With under 500 calories per serving and a rich lineup of essential nutrients like potassium, iron, and vitamin C, this meal supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. It’s a great choice for anyone following a Mediterranean-style, high-protein, gluten-free, or whole foods-based diet.

Quick Enough for Busy Weeknights

Despite its impressive flavor and nutrition, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a weeknight winner. With minimal prep and a fast cook time, it’s easy to pull together even when you’re short on time or energy. The shrimp sear quickly, the salad requires no cooking, and the rice can be prepared in advance or even purchased pre-cooked.

It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel good about what you’re eating without spending hours in the kitchen. With fresh ingredients and pantry staples, it proves that clean eating can be convenient and indulgent at the same time.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

Blackened Shrimp Bowls are also a hit with families. The customizable nature of the bowl means everyone can build their own, choosing their preferred toppings and spice level. For younger eaters or those sensitive to heat, simply reduce or omit the blackening spices and sriracha. For adventurous eaters, extra lime juice, jalapeños, or hot sauce can dial up the flavor.

This bowl-style meal encourages healthy eating in a fun, engaging way—making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation for both solo dinners and group gatherings.

Conclusion: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fully Satisfying

Blackened Shrimp Bowls are everything a great meal should be—bold in flavor, rich in nutrients, fast to make, and endlessly customizable. With smoky, spice-rubbed shrimp, hearty brown rice, a zesty corn salad, and creamy avocado, each bite is a burst of texture and taste that satisfies on every level.

Whether you’re trying to eat clean, cut back on carbs, fuel your workouts, or simply bring more color and freshness to your plate, this bowl delivers. It’s proof that healthy meals don’t have to be bland or complicated—in fact, they can be the most exciting and satisfying part of your day.

Make it your own, serve it hot or cold, and enjoy the simplicity of a wholesome meal that tastes like a treat. One bite, and it just might become a new weekly favorite.