Mexican Shrimp Bowl

Mexican Shrimp Bowl is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 600 calories per serving. Recipe by Cal Reynolds on YouTube.

Prep: 14 min | Cook: 11 min | Total: 35 min

Cost: $32.44 total, $8.11 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Shrimp (peeled and deveined, medium size)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning (store‑bought or homemade blend)
  • 2 cups Corn Kernels (fresh or frozen, roasted)
  • 1 cup Black Beans (cooked, drained and rinsed (canned works))
  • 0.5 cup Red Bell Pepper (diced)
  • 0.25 cup Red Onion (diced, small onion)
  • 0.25 cup Cilantro (chopped fresh)
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 3 tablespoons Mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
  • 2 tablespoons Sour Cream (optional, can use Greek yogurt)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
  • 1 Avocado (sliced for garnish, optional)
  • 2 cups Cooked Rice or Quinoa (optional base, can use cauliflower rice for low‑carb)

Instructions

  1. Roast the Corn

    Heat the cast‑iron skillet over high heat. Add the corn kernels in a single layer and roast, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and let cool.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: high

  2. Prepare Corn‑Black Bean Salsa

    In a mixing bowl combine the roasted corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Make Cilantro Lime Sauce

    In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, a pinch of salt, and pepper until smooth. Cover and chill in the refrigerator.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Season the Shrimp

    Place the raw shrimp in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss with taco seasoning until each piece is evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Cook the Shrimp

    Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot cast‑iron skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2‑3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

    Time: PT6M

    Temperature: 375°F

  6. Assemble the Bowls

    Divide cooked rice or quinoa (if using) among four bowls. Top each with a portion of shrimp, a generous scoop of corn‑black bean salsa, and a drizzle of cilantro lime sauce. Garnish with avocado slices and extra cilantro if desired.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
600
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
20g
Fiber
10g

Dietary info: Gluten‑Free (use gluten‑free taco seasoning), High‑Protein, Low‑Carb (omit rice), Nut‑Free

Allergens: Shellfish, Egg (mayonnaise), Dairy (sour cream, if used), Potential gluten in taco seasoning

Last updated: April 20, 2026

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Mexican Shrimp Bowl

Recipe by Cal Reynolds

A quick, healthy, and flavor‑packed Mexican Shrimp Bowl featuring roasted corn‑black bean salsa, a creamy cilantro‑lime sauce, and perfectly seasoned shrimp cooked in a hot cast‑iron skillet. Ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

EasyMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
5m
Prep
21m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
36m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$32.44
Total cost
$8.11
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Roasting the corn until lightly charred for smoky flavor.
  • Cooking shrimp just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
  • Chilling the salsa and sauce for at least 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw shrimp with clean hands and wash all surfaces to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • The cast‑iron skillet will be extremely hot; use oven mitts.
  • Do not overcook shrimp – it becomes tough and difficult to chew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of a Mexican Shrimp Bowl in Mexican cuisine?

A

While the exact "bowl" concept is a modern, health‑focused presentation, it draws on traditional Mexican flavors like corn, black beans, lime, and cilantro that have been staples in Mexican cooking for centuries. Combining shrimp with these ingredients reflects coastal Mexican dishes such as camarones al ajillo and street‑style tacos.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Mexican shrimp dishes in coastal Mexico?

A

In the Pacific states (e.g., Sinaloa, Baja California) shrimp are often grilled with simple garlic‑lime marinades, while in the Gulf region they may be cooked in a rich tomato‑chili sauce. The bowl format adapts these regional flavors into a convenient, mixed‑grain or rice base.

cultural
Q

How is a Mexican Shrimp Bowl traditionally served in Mexican households?

A

Traditionally, shrimp are served on warm corn tortillas or over a bed of rice with fresh salsa, lime wedges, and a drizzle of crema. The bowl version keeps the same components but presents them in a single dish for easy eating.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is shrimp commonly associated with in Mexican culture?

A

Shrimp is popular for festive occasions such as Día de los Muertos feasts, beachside gatherings, and family celebrations in coastal towns where fresh seafood is abundant. It’s also a favorite for quick weekday meals.

cultural
Q

How does the Mexican Shrimp Bowl fit into the broader Mexican cuisine tradition?

A

The bowl incorporates core Mexican ingredients—corn, beans, cilantro, lime, and chili seasoning—mirroring the balance of protein, starch, and fresh vegetables found in classic Mexican meals, while offering a modern, portion‑controlled format.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for a Mexican Shrimp Bowl versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include fresh shrimp, corn kernels, black beans, cilantro, lime, and a simple taco seasoning blend. Acceptable substitutes are chicken for shrimp, quinoa or cauliflower rice for traditional rice, and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter sauce.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with a Mexican Shrimp Bowl?

A

Serve alongside a side of Mexican street‑style corn (elote), a simple avocado salad, or a chilled cucumber‑jicama agua fresca to complement the bright flavors of the bowl.

cultural
Q

What makes this Mexican Shrimp Bowl special or unique in Mexican cuisine?

A

The bowl’s uniqueness lies in its combination of roasted corn‑black bean salsa and a creamy cilantro‑lime sauce, which adds a tangy, herbaceous richness not typically found in traditional shrimp tacos, creating a balanced, one‑bowl meal.

cultural
Q

How has the Mexican Shrimp Bowl evolved over time in modern Mexican‑inspired cooking?

A

The dish evolved from classic taco and bowl concepts popularized by health‑focused food trends, merging traditional Mexican flavors with convenient, protein‑rich bowls that cater to busy lifestyles and meal‑prep culture.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Mexican Shrimp Bowl at home?

A

Common mistakes include overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery, and under‑roasting the corn, which reduces the smoky flavor. Also, be sure to chill the salsa and sauce long enough for the flavors to meld.

technical
Q

How do I know when the shrimp in the Mexican Shrimp Bowl are done cooking?

A

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout and curl into a loose “C” shape. A quick cut through the thickest piece should reveal no translucent flesh.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cal Reynolds specialize in?

A

Cal Reynolds focuses on quick, approachable, and health‑conscious home cooking videos that often feature bold flavors, simple ingredient lists, and step‑by‑step guidance for busy home cooks.

channel

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