Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl

Name: Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g flank steak, grilled and sliced; 1 cup cooked sushi rice; 1/2 cup diced pineapple; 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced; 1/2 avocado, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I love preparing the Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl because it combines the best of both worlds—fresh seafood and savory meat in one delicious bowl. The mixture of vibrant tropical flavors and textures not only excites my taste buds but also transforms a simple meal into a quick and elegant feast. Every time I bite into the succulent shrimp and tender steak paired with the zesty pineapple, I’m transported to a sunny beach. It's my go-to recipe for impressing guests or treating myself after a busy week.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:46:31.344Z

One day, while dreaming of a tropical getaway, I decided to recreate the flavors of summer in a soothing bowl. I experimented with marinated shrimp and grilled steak, and the result was a burst of flavors that reminded me of sunny beaches and warm sand. Adding fresh vegetables and a drizzle of zesty dressing brought the entire dish to life.

What’s great about this poke bowl is its versatility. You can easily switch up the proteins or add different toppings based on what you have on hand. I often layer in avocado and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for some extra healthy fats and crunch. This makes every bowl uniquely yours while still being delicious!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful harmony of surf and turf flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any weeknight
Colorful, vibrant ingredients that make every bite enjoyable

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For the best flavor in your Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl, sourcing high-quality ingredients is key. Opt for fresh, sustainably caught shrimp that are firm and slightly translucent. When it comes to the flank steak, look for marbling; it adds tenderness and flavor. You can also substitute the steak with ribeye or sirloin for a similar experience. The fruit, especially the pineapple, should be ripe and sweet, which will enhance the overall tropical theme of the dish.

Don’t overlook the importance of the sushi rice. Choose a short-grain variety for its stickiness, which helps the bowl stay cohesive. When cooking, it’s important to rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This will give you a fluffier texture that contrasts beautifully with the succulent shrimp and juicy steak. If you want a quick variation, pre-packaged sushi rice can save time but might lack authenticity.

Assembling Your Bowl

When assembling the poke bowl, presentation is everything. Start with a generous base of sushi rice; this will absorb the dressing and the flavors from the toppings. Make sure to pack the rice slightly to give it structure. Layer your ingredients thoughtfully—consider alternate colors and textures. For instance, placing the creamy avocado next to the bright pineapple adds visual appeal and balances creaminess with acidity.

An eye-catching touch is to arrange the shrimp and steak in a circular pattern, and then neatly pile the other toppings in sections. This not only makes for an Instagram-worthy dish but also allows guests to mix and match flavors in each bite. You can elevate the presentation further by adding edible flowers or microgreens, which complement the tropical theme beautifully.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store the components separately to maintain freshness. The shrimp and steak can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the avocado may brown quickly, so consider cutting it fresh when you serve. The sushi rice can be reheated gently in the microwave with a splash of water to revive its texture.

Want to serve this bowl as a crowd-pleaser? You can prepare a 'build-your-own' style bar. Set out all the ingredients in bowls and let your guests customize their own poke bowls. This not only adds an interactive element to your meal but also accommodates different dietary preferences, making it perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a tasty Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl:

For the Bowl

200g cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g flank steak, grilled and sliced
1 cup cooked sushi rice
1/2 cup diced pineapple
1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 avocado, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon grated ginger

These ingredients will work together to create a delicious and colorful poke bowl.

Instructions

Follow these steps for an amazing Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger until well combined. Set aside.

Cook the Steak

Season the flank steak with salt and pepper, then grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Let it rest before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

Start with a base of sushi rice in each bowl. Arrange cooked shrimp and sliced steak on top, then add pineapple, cucumber, and avocado slices.

Drizzle with Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the bowl, and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnishing.

Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl based on your favorite proteins and vegetables. You can also add some spicy mayo or sriracha for an extra kick.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your Tropical Surf and Turf Poke Bowl further, consider marinating the flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of lime juice for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will enhance the umami notes and add a hint of tang that complements the tropical ingredients perfectly. Just be wary not to over-marinate, as the acid can begin to 'cook' the meat.

In addition, if you're a fan of heat, adding a touch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing can give the dish a delightful kick. This balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple and the rich flavors of the steak and shrimp, making for a more dynamic culinary experience.

Dietary Modifications

For those following a gluten-free diet, substitute the soy sauce with a tamari sauce, which offers similar flavor without gluten. Additionally, you can customize the protein; grilled chicken or tofu makes for excellent alternatives that still maintain the integrity of the dish. For vegan options, replace the shrimp and steak with marinated tofu or tempeh, ensuring to infuse them with enough flavor to stand up against the vibrant toppings.

If you want to add more veggies, consider adding radishes, carrots, or bell peppers for crunch and flavor depth. Each adds a unique texture and can be tailored to seasonal availability, making your poke bowl both fresh and versatile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the shrimp or steak?

Absolutely! You can use chicken, tofu, or any other favorite protein.

→ What can I use instead of sushi rice?

You can substitute sushi rice with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best to eat them fresh.

→ Can I make this poke bowl vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the meat and shrimp, and load up on more veggies or add some edamame.