Are you craving a meal that’s both wholesome and packed with flavor? This shrimp bowl recipe delivers the best of both worlds—perfectly spiced shrimp paired with a colorful medley of fresh, crisp veggies and a creamy dressing that ties everything together. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying but don’t want to skimp on taste. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking for a new twist on dinner bowls, this shrimp bowl recipe will hit the spot every time. Bonus? It’s fully customizable to suit your dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand. Let’s dive in!
Shrimp Bowl Recipe
Cuisine: Fusion cuisineDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes10
minutes350
kcalThis shrimp bowl recipe brings the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and refreshing flavors. A quick and easy dish that’s light yet filling, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lime
- For the Bowl
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving
- For the Dressing
2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 5-10 minutes. - Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp for an added burst of flavor. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. - Assemble the Bowl:
In a large bowl, layer the cooked rice as the base. Arrange the cooked shrimp, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado on top of the rice. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. - Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the bowl, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Rice Variations: You can substitute the rice with quinoa, couscous, or a salad base for a lighter option.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the red pepper flakes in the shrimp marinade to your desired spice level, or omit them entirely for a milder version.
- Make Ahead: The shrimp and rice can be cooked ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls when ready to serve.
- Serving Size: This recipe is designed for 4 servings, but you can easily scale it up or down depending on your needs.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Bowl Recipe
- Shrimp Cooking: Don’t overcook the shrimp. They cook very quickly, and even an extra minute on the heat can turn them rubbery. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the veggies based on what’s in season or your preferences. Adding red bell pepper, spinach, or even black beans can elevate the flavor.
- Use Fresh Lime: The lime adds freshness and zest to the entire dish, so don’t skip it!
- Dress It Up: If you want more of a tangy kick, add extra lime juice or a pinch of chili powder to your dressing.
Recipe Variants:
- Cajun Shrimp Bowl:
Add a Cajun seasoning blend instead of the smoked paprika for a different, spicier twist. Add some sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. - Shrimp and Mango Bowl:
For a tropical twist, add some diced mango to your shrimp bowl. The sweetness of the mango complements the spiced shrimp beautifully. - Vegan Shrimp Bowl:
Swap the shrimp for a plant-based protein like crispy tofu or tempeh, and adjust the seasonings accordingly to keep the flavors rich and bold.
FAQ
Yes, you can cook the shrimp and prepare the rice ahead of time. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the bowls when ready to eat.
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating and cooking.
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream-based dressing with a vinaigrette or a tahini dressing if you prefer a lighter, dairy-free option.
You can add toppings like feta cheese, pickled onions, or roasted sweet potatoes for a heartier dish.
If you’re looking for more easy, fresh bowls to enjoy, be sure to check out our Taco Bowl Recipe. It’s a perfect combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, and toppings that are sure to please.
This shrimp bowl recipe is a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and filling meal. With a blend of fresh ingredients, a little spice, and a creamy dressing, it’s a versatile dish that can easily be adjusted to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or even meal prepping for the week, this dish will keep you coming back for more. So grab your shrimp, your favorite veggies, and get ready to make this delicious, easy-to-make shrimp bowl recipe that’s sure to impress.
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