Cajun Shrimp and White Rice Bowl with Avocado Dressing
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal, this Cajun Shrimp and White Rice Bowl with Avocado Dressing is a perfect choice. This dish brings together spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp, fluffy white rice, and a creamy, tangy avocado dressing, creating a perfect balance of heat and coolness.
Whether you’re craving a weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or a protein-packed lunch, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds while keeping things light yet filling.
Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp and White Rice Bowl with Avocado Dressing
Gather these simple yet delicious ingredients to create this incredible dish.
For the Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 lb Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Dried Oregano
- ½ tsp Dried Thyme
- ½ tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust for spice level)
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
- Juice of ½ Lemon
For the White Rice:
- 1 cup White Rice (Jasmine or Basmati for fluffiness)
- 2 cups Water
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Butter or Olive Oil
For the Avocado Dressing:
- 1 Ripe Avocado
- ½ cup Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper
- ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro (optional)
- ¼ cup Water (adjust for consistency)
Optional Toppings:
- Diced Tomatoes
- Sliced Jalapeños
- Crumbled Feta or Cotija Cheese
- Chopped Cilantro
- Sliced Avocado
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Shrimp and Rice Bowl
Step 1: Cook the White Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Boil the Water: In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Cook the Rice: Add 1 cup of rice, salt, and butter, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Fluff and Set Aside: Turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Shrimp
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a Pan: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place shrimp in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss well.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Dressing
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, and cilantro.
- Adjust Consistency: Add water a little at a time until the dressing is smooth and pourable.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
- Start with Rice: Divide cooked white rice into serving bowls.
- Add Cajun Shrimp: Place seasoned shrimp on top of the rice.
- Drizzle Avocado Dressing: Generously drizzle the creamy avocado dressing over the shrimp and rice.
- Add Toppings: Finish with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, crumbled cheese, or extra avocado slices.
Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp and Rice Bowl
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, wild-caught shrimp have the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer milder shrimp, reduce the cayenne pepper.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: This helps get a perfect sear on the shrimp for added flavor.
- Fluff Your Rice: Let rice rest before fluffing to keep it light and airy.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: The avocado dressing can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Variations of Cajun Shrimp and Rice Bowl
- Brown Rice Version: Swap white rice for brown rice for a healthier option.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Toss shrimp in garlic butter sauce for extra richness.
- Mango Salsa Topping: Add a mango salsa for a sweet and spicy contrast.
- Vegan Option: Replace shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
What to Serve with Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Pair this meal with:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Roasted Vegetables
- Crispy Tortilla Chips
- Chilled Lemonade or Margarita
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigeration:
- Store shrimp, rice, and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Shrimp: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Rice: Add a splash of water and microwave for 30-40 seconds.
- Dressing: Stir well before using.
Conclusion: A Perfect Balance of Spice and Creaminess
This Cajun Shrimp and White Rice Bowl with Avocado Dressing is an easy, flavorful meal that’s packed with spice, protein, and creamy goodness. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the bold flavors of Cajun cooking right at home!
Cajun Shrimp and White Rice Bowl with Avocado Dressing
A flavorful, spicy Cajun shrimp dish served over a bed of white rice, topped with creamy avocado dressing for a satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Rice cooker or pot
- Mixing bowl
- Blender (for the dressing)
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook white rice according to package instructions.
- Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side). Set aside.
- For the dressing, blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- To assemble, divide the cooked rice into bowls, top with shrimp, and drizzle with avocado dressing.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve.
Video
Notes
For extra flavor, top the bowl with sliced red onions or diced tomatoes.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
