High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Treats

I absolutely love making this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl! It's a wonderfully light yet satisfying meal packed with protein and flavor. The combination of succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant vegetables makes it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch option. I enjoy a burst of fresh lime and a hint of garlic that elevate the flavors to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to savor this nutritious bowl again and again.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:45:35.880Z

Creating this dish was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I wanted a healthy yet delicious meal that didn’t take too long to prepare. After some trial and error, I found that marinating the shrimp just right and sautéing them quickly made the difference in flavor. The zing from fresh lime juice really brings out the best in the shrimp!

As I served the bowls, I realized that the mix of textures – tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables – was absolutely satisfying. I suggest using jasmine rice for that wonderful aroma that complements the shrimp beautifully. You’ll find this bowl not only nourishing but also incredibly fulfilling.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein from shrimp and wholesome rice
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Bursting with fresh flavors from lime and garlic

Marinating the Shrimp

Allowing the shrimp to marinate is a crucial step in building flavor for this dish. By combining peeled and deveined shrimp with garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper, you're infusing the shrimp with a zesty kick that complements their natural sweetness. Aim for a marination of at least 10 minutes; this will ensure that the shrimp absorb the tangy and savory notes. If you have a bit more time, marinating up to 30 minutes can enhance the flavor even further.

When you marinate shrimp, keep in mind that over-marinating can lead to a rubbery texture, especially due to the acidity of lime juice. Therefore, keeping an eye on that 10 to 30-minute window is essential. If you’d like to prep the shrimp a bit ahead of time, you can let them marinate in the refrigerator, but avoid letting them sit for more than half an hour.

Selecting the Right Vegetables

The choice of vegetables in this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the nutritional profile of the dish. While the recipe calls for mixed bell peppers and broccoli, feel free to get creative based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. For example, snap peas or zucchini would work beautifully in this bowl, adding crunch and fresh flavor. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking the vegetables just until they are tender but still crisp is the goal. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they have softened but maintain a slight bite. This technique prevents the vegetables from becoming mushy, allowing you to enjoy their fresh, vibrant taste alongside the shrimp and rice.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you’re looking to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Similarly, broccoli and bell peppers can be sautéed and stored likewise, but I recommend reheating them briefly to bring back their flavor and texture before serving. Jasmine rice also holds up well for meal prep; it can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for about 4-5 days.

For long-term storage, freeze the shrimp and cooked rice in portions. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing to prevent clumping. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, and they can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy the meal, simply thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge, sauté them fresh, and reheat the vegetables and rice on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cooked jasmine rice
1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the vegetables

In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell peppers and broccoli, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.

Cook the shrimp

Remove the vegetables from the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the marinated shrimp into the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Assemble the bowl

Serve the cooked shrimp over the jasmine rice and top with the sautéed vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced avocado on top before serving. You can also swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu if desired.

Flavor Variations

To take the flavor profile of your High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl to the next level, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil while sautéing the shrimp. These additions can provide a beautiful umami depth that pairs well with the lime and garlic. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process.

If you want to try a different herb, swapping cilantro for fresh basil or mint can impart a refreshing twist to the dish. These herbs provide distinct flavor notes that can transform your shrimp bowl into a completely new experience. Experimenting with spices like paprika or cumin can also add delightful warmth and complexity.

Scaling the Recipe

This shrimp rice bowl is incredibly easy to scale up or down based on your needs. For larger gatherings or meal prep, simply multiply the quantities of shrimp, rice, and vegetables accordingly. However, keep in mind that cooking times may slightly vary; when cooking larger batches, ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded, as this can lower the heat and prevent proper sautéing.

If you're adjusting the recipe for fewer servings, you can still follow the same cooking method. Just remember to season accordingly; tasting as you go will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors, even when altering sizes. Cooking with a digital scale can help in accurately measuring your ingredients for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp marinade.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include snap peas, carrots, or even spinach for a different twist!

→ Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp and chop the vegetables a day in advance for quicker assembly.