Discover how to make Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls packed with vibrant flavors. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner everyone will love.
Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls
If you’re craving a quick and healthy dinner that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this recipe for Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls is a perfect choice. Ready in under 30 minutes, these shrimp bowls combine juicy, seasoned shrimp with fresh veggies, tangy feta, and lemony dressing – a delicious balance of protein and wholesome ingredients.
This recipe is great whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, you can customize it by swapping out bases or veggies according to what you have on hand. We’ll cover all the tips and tricks below to help you get the best results every time!
Why You’ll Love It
Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls stand out because they’re loaded with fresh, vibrant flavors that feel light but satisfying. The seasoning is simple yet bold, and cooking the shrimp is quick, making this an ideal dinner for busy nights.
It’s also versatile and can be easily adapted for different dietary needs or ingredient swaps. Lastly, it’s all served in a bowl, combining various textures and tastes in one vibrant meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (use frozen if fresh unavailable)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (substitute avocado oil for a milder taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked couscous or rice (quinoa or cauliflower rice for gluten-free)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced (green olives optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (vegan cheese for dairy-free)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Prepare your base by cooking couscous or rice according to package instructions.
- Divide the cooked couscous evenly into four bowls.
- Top each bowl with the cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Expert Tips
Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for best flavor. Avoid overcooking shrimp — they turn rubbery if cooked too long. The shrimp are done as soon as they turn pink and curl.
For extra flavor, marinate shrimp briefly in lemon juice and herbs before cooking. You can also add a bit of crushed red pepper for some heat.
If meal prepping, keep dressing and fresh toppings separate until ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Storage
Store leftover shrimp bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If using dairy, feta cheese can be added fresh when reheating to keep texture better.
While you can freeze cooked shrimp, it’s best to freeze components separately if planning to freeze this dish. Store shrimp in freezer-safe bags up to 2 months.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace shrimp with grilled tofu or chickpeas and use vegan feta cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of couscous.
- Dairy-Free: Omit feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Lower Carb: Swap couscous for cauliflower rice or mixed greens.
FAQ
- Can I make Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prep the shrimp and base separately and assemble when ready to eat for freshness.
- What is the best base for Mediterranean shrimp bowls?
- Traditional couscous or rice works well, but you can substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for gluten-free or low-carb options.
- How do I prevent the shrimp from drying out?
- Cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Are Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls healthy?
- Yes, they’re packed with protein, fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and are balanced for a nutritious dinner.
- Can I adjust the seasoning in Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls?
- Absolutely! The spice blend is simple and adaptable. Feel free to add herbs like oregano or spices like cumin for different flavor profiles.
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