The Cajun Shrimp Bowl from Slapfish features spicy, seasoned shrimp atop a bed of fluffy rice, accompanied by fresh greens, black beans, and a zesty cilantro lime dressing, delivering a vibrant and satisfying blend of bold flavors and textures.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowl
- Rice cooker or pot
- Colander or strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups mixed fresh greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Using fresh, large shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor for your Cajun Shrimp Bowl, while pre-measured Cajun seasoning helps maintain consistency in spiciness. Rinsing and draining black beans thoroughly prevents excess moisture, keeping your bowl fresh and not soggy. Combining mayonnaise and sour cream in the dressing creates a creamy texture that balances the lime juice's acidity and the spice from the seasoning. Fresh cilantro and lime juice enhance the dish with bright, zesty notes, so use them sparingly to suit your taste. Your homemade Cajun Shrimp Bowl inspired by Slapfish's copycat menu delivers a vibrant mix of bold, satisfying flavors and textures.
Instructions
- Cook the rice in a rice cooker or pot.
- Rinse and drain the black beans using a colander or strainer.
- Prepare the mixed fresh greens; set aside.
- Pat dry the shrimp with paper towels.
- Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning in a mixing bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the seasoned shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and cilantro to make the cilantro lime dressing.
- Dice red onion and halve cherry tomatoes with a chef’s knife on a cutting board.
- Assemble bowls: start with a bed of cooked rice.
- Top with black beans, mixed greens, and cooked shrimp.
- Add diced red onion and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle with cilantro lime dressing.
- Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Cajun Shrimp Bowl from Slapfish copycat menu can be easily adapted if you lack certain ingredients or equipment in your kitchen. If fresh shrimp is unavailable, frozen shrimp can be used by thawing thoroughly before cooking, ensuring similar texture and flavor. When black beans are not on hand, substituting with canned kidney beans or chickpeas provides a comparable protein boost and texture. Your choice of greens can be varied based on availability; sturdy leaves like kale or butter lettuce will work well in place of spinach or arugula. If you don't have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt offers a creamy base for the cilantro lime dressing while adding a slight tang.
Tips
Make sure to pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help the Cajun spices stick better and ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking shrimp; cook in batches if needed to maintain a proper sear and prevent steaming. Whisk the cilantro lime dressing thoroughly to blend the flavors smoothly, enhancing your dish's overall taste. When assembling your bowl, layer ingredients starting with rice and ending with dressing to balance textures and keep greens crisp.
Nutritions
The Cajun Shrimp Bowl provides a rich source of lean protein from shrimp, combined with complex carbohydrates from white rice and fiber from black beans. Fresh greens add essential vitamins A and C, while the cilantro lime dressing contributes healthy fats from olive oil and probiotics from sour cream. The meal's balanced macro- and micronutrient profile supports energy needs and immune function. This nutrient-dense dish can help you stay full and satisfied while enjoying bold Cajun flavors.
Storage
Store leftover Cajun Shrimp Bowl components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep cooked shrimp and rice refrigerated and consume within 2 days for optimal taste and safety. Your cilantro lime dressing should be kept in a sealed jar and added just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa to increase fiber and add a nutty flavor to your Cajun Shrimp Bowl. Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and sour cream in the cilantro lime dressing for a lighter, tangier option rich in protein. Consider grilling the shrimp instead of sauteing to impart a smoky char and reduce oil use. You can also mix roasted corn or diced avocado into the bowl for extra sweetness and creaminess, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Allergies
The Cajun Shrimp Bowl contains shellfish, a common allergen that may cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The dressing includes mayonnaise and sour cream, which contain eggs and dairy, potentially triggering allergies related to those ingredients. Your meal's combination of shrimp, dairy, and eggs requires careful consideration if you have known allergies to any of these components.
Why this recipe?
The Cajun Shrimp Bowl from Slapfish restaurant stands out due to its perfectly seasoned, tender shrimp paired with fresh, vibrant ingredients and a blend of Cajun spices that deliver a bold, flavorful experience. You'll appreciate the balanced combination of zesty, spicy, and savory tastes that make each bite satisfying and memorable. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate this popular dish at home, giving you control over ingredient quality and spice levels tailored to your preference. The recipe's simplicity and rich flavors offer a rewarding cooking experience that brings the taste of Slapfish's famous bowl right into your kitchen.