High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, snap peas, carrots); Fresh cilantro for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Prep Plates

I love whipping up this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl when I'm craving something nutritious yet satisfying. The combination of succulent shrimp and fluffy rice, complemented by a burst of colorful veggies, creates a meal that's both fulfilling and easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a vibrant dish on the table that not only tastes amazing but also fuels your body with essential proteins and nutrients. It's become a go-to for my weeknight dinners, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:45:36.106Z

When I first attempted this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how satisfying it was. I started by marinating the shrimp in a blend of garlic, lime, and spices, which not only enhanced the flavor but also kept them incredibly juicy. This method works wonders as the shrimp cook quickly and absorb the marinade beautifully.

Another tip I learned along the way is to use jasmine rice for a fragrant touch that pairs perfectly with the shrimp. Topping it off with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds elevates the dish from simple to spectacular. I always attract compliments when I serve this – it’s truly a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High protein content keeps you full and satisfied
Light yet hearty, it's perfect for any time of the day
Versatile recipe - add your favorite veggies or sauces

Perfect Rice Every Time

To ensure your jasmine rice turns out fluffy and separate, it's essential to rinse it thoroughly. This step removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. After rinsing, combining the rice with the correct water ratio (1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water) is crucial. Bring it to a rapid boil; then reduce the heat to a low simmer, covering the pot. This will allow the rice to absorb the water evenly, resulting in perfect grains after about 15 minutes.

If you want to infuse additional flavor into your rice, consider cooking it in broth or adding a bay leaf during the simmering process. For a more aromatic touch, adding a teaspoon of salt right before you boil the water can elevate the taste. Remember, once cooked, allow the rice to rest with the lid on for 5 minutes; this traps steam, ensuring that every grain is tender yet firm.

Flavorful Shrimp Preparation

Marinating the shrimp is key to maximizing flavor. By mixing the shrimp with lime juice, olive oil, and spices like paprika and garlic, you allow the bold flavors to penetrate the shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness. Let the shrimp sit for about 10 minutes in the marinade, but avoid going longer than 30 minutes; the acidity from the lime juice can start to 'cook' the shrimp, leading to a rubbery texture.

When cooking the shrimp, ensure your skillet is adequately heated over medium heat before adding them. This prevents them from stewing and helps achieve that delicious golden color. Cook for just 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn fully pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough, so keep a close eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they firm up.

Versatile Vegetables and Add-Ons

The beauty of this bowl lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables based on your preferences. Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus would work beautifully in place of snap peas or carrots. It's important to cut the vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly, typically sautéing them until tender-crisp, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This method retains their vibrant colors and crunchy texture.

For those who enjoy additional flavors, consider incorporating sauces such as soy sauce, teriyaki, or a dash of sriracha over the assembled bowl. If you want to boost the nutritional profile further, toss in some edamame or a sprinkle of pea protein. Additionally, if you're prepping in advance, keep the ingredients separate to maintain freshness until you're ready to serve.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Rice Bowl

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, snap peas, carrots)
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Optional Add-Ins

Consider adding avocado, edamame, or sriracha for extra flavor!

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Rice

Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add marinated shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer the rice, followed by the shrimp and vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and colorful High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to your shrimp while cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

This High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl can easily become a meal-prep favorite. To save time during busy weekdays, you can prepare the rice and marinate the shrimp the night before. Store the cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just remember to reheat it with a splash of water to loosen it up and regain that fluffy texture before serving.

For the shrimp, marinating them ahead and storing them in the fridge can cut down on preparation time. However, avoid cooking the shrimp too far in advance, as they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their tender texture. You might also consider prepping the vegetables ahead, chopping them and storing them in the fridge until you're ready to stir-fry.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from this dish can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, use medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the moisture in the rice and shrimp. This quick method not only warms the dish thoroughly but also keeps it from becoming dry and unappetizing.

If you’re considering freezing the rice and shrimp bowl, it’s best to store the components separately. Cooked rice can be frozen for up to three months, while the shrimp should be cooked and then frozen for about a month. To reheat, allow the rice to thaw in the fridge overnight and sauté the shrimp briefly in a skillet before combining them with the rice and your choice of fresh vegetables.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice comes out too sticky, it’s likely due to insufficient rinsing or an incorrect water ratio. Remember to rinse the rice until the water clears and stick to the 1:2 rice-to-water ratio. If you've cooked it too long, consider using it for fried rice instead; stir in some veggies and a scrambled egg for a delicious twist.

Should your shrimp turn out rubbery, that’s typically a sign of overcooking. Keep in mind that shrimp cook quickly, so as soon as they turn pink and opaque, they are done. For future reference, using a timer can help you keep track and ensure each batch is cooked perfectly. If you find your shrimp under-seasoned, a quick sprinkle of sea salt right before serving can enhance the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for jasmine rice?

You can use basmati or brown rice, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I meal prep this dish?

Cook everything ahead of time and store in individual containers, reheating before serving.

→ Can I add more protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Consider adding boiled eggs or tofu for an extra protein boost.