Spicy Calabrian Chili Shrimp Bowl with Cucumber Salad

A Flavorful and Spicy Seafood Bowl with a Refreshing Twist

If you love bold flavors and hearty meals, this Spicy Calabrian Chili Shrimp Bowl is the perfect dish to add to your rotation. Featuring juicy shrimp coated in Calabrian chili butter, smoky roasted sweet potatoes, and a zesty cucumber salad, this bowl is a fusion of spice, smokiness, and freshness. The balance of heat from the Calabrian chili paste, the richness of buttery shrimp, and the cool crunch of cucumber make every bite an unforgettable experience.

This bowl is nutrient-packed, featuring lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and fresh ingredients that make it a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re looking for a spicy seafood dinner or a power-packed lunch bowl, this dish is a must-try!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 ½ lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp Calabrian chili paste
• 7 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 7 tbsp salted butter
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cucumber Salad

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp Togarashi chili pepper seasoning (optional, for spice)
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp honey

For the Bowl Base

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 2 roasted corn cobs, kernels cut off
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled, cubed, and roasted
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Evenly spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and tender.

2. Roast the Corn

1. Drizzle corn cobs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Roast directly on a baking sheet or grill until slightly charred.
3. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob and set aside.

3. Make the Cucumber Salad

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cucumber, red onion, salt, Togarashi chili pepper (if using), red wine vinegar, and honey.
2. Toss well and set aside to marinate while preparing the shrimp.

4. Cook the Calabrian Chili Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the Calabrian chili paste, cilantro, smoked paprika, and salt, cooking for 30 seconds to blend the flavors.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked.

5. Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide cooked brown rice among serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with roasted sweet potatoes, cucumber salad, roasted corn, and Calabrian chili shrimp.
3. Drizzle any remaining butter sauce from the skillet over the bowls for extra flavor.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and add sliced avocado if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Bowl

• Adjust the spice level: If you love extra heat, add more Calabrian chili paste or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Make it a meal-prep dish: This bowl stores well in airtight containers, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Swap the grain: If you prefer, you can replace brown rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or jasmine rice for a different texture.
• Add protein variety: Want more protein? Add a soft-boiled egg or grilled chicken for an extra boost.

About the Creator

This recipe is brought to you by Brandon Gouveia, a talented video creator who captures food with flavor and flair. Known for blending vibrant visuals with bold dishes, Brandon brings meals to life one frame—and one bite—at a time.

Check out more of his delicious content on Instagram: @brandongouveia

Brandon Gouveia | @brandongouveia