High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Ideas
I absolutely love finding ways to boost my protein intake without sacrificing flavor. This High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl has become one of my go-to meals, especially on busy weeknights. The combination of plump shrimp, nutritious brown rice, and vibrant vegetables makes for a satisfying dish that keeps me energized. Plus, it's super easy to whip up in just a matter of minutes. Whether I’m prepping for the week or hosting friends, this recipe never disappoints!
When I first created this shrimp rice bowl, I was looking for something quick but packed with protein. The instant I tasted the combination of flavors, I knew I hit the jackpot. Cooking the shrimp in garlic and ginger not only enhances their flavor but infuses the rice with a delightful, aromatic aroma that takes this dish to another level. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
One tip I always share is to let the shrimp marinate in soy sauce for at least 10 minutes before cooking. It adds depth and a savory kick that transforms the entire dish. Trust me, this simple step will elevate your shrimp, making them juicy and full of flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein and nutrients
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes
- Versatile - customize with your favorite veggies
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp
Cooking shrimp perfectly requires attention to timing. When adding the shrimp to the skillet, look for them to turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. To avoid rubbery shrimp, make sure not to overcook them—once they're just cooked through, they should be removed from the heat to keep their tender consistency. If you’re unsure, a quick taste test can ensure they’re perfectly done.
Using a non-stick skillet can also enhance your shrimp cooking experience, preventing sticking and allowing for easy cleanup. Additionally, I recommend using shrimp that are around 31-40 size; they offer a good balance of flavor and texture while cooking uniformly with other ingredients. If you're in a pinch, frozen shrimp can work as well—just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating.
Versatile Vegetable Options
The beauty of this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl is its versatility with vegetables. While the recipe calls for bell peppers and snap peas, feel free to customize the mix with whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, broccoli, or even shredded carrots can add their unique flavor profiles. Just ensure that any vegetables should be cut into similar sizes for even cooking, so everything cooks evenly within the 5-minute sauté time.
If you prefer a bit of extra crunch, adding some sliced water chestnuts during the sautéing process can elevate the texture of the dish. Alternatively, if you’re looking for leafy greens, throw in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking—the residual heat will wilt them perfectly without overcooking.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather these fresh ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a delicious shrimp rice bowl:
Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine shrimp, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the veggies.
Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for about 5 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Combine and Serve
Stir in cooked brown rice, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Your High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This shrimp rice bowl is fantastic for meal prep. The cooked brown rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the shrimp and vegetables, consider preparing them the night before and storing them separately. This ensures that all components keep their texture and flavor, making for an easy assembly on busy nights.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on a low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery again. Adding a splash of water or a drizzle of soy sauce while reheating can help keep the dish moist.
Flavor Variations
For those looking to switch up the flavor profile, consider adding different herbs or sauces to the marinade. A squeeze of lime or a splash of rice vinegar can brighten up the dish significantly. If you enjoy a bit of heat, incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha during the cooking process can bring an exciting kick to your bowl.
You might also experiment with different grains instead of brown rice. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be excellent low-carb options, maintaining the protein focus while changing up the texture and nutritional content.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure to thaw them properly before marinating!
→ What can I substitute for brown rice?
You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it ahead and reheat it for a quick meal.
High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
I absolutely love finding ways to boost my protein intake without sacrificing flavor. This High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl has become one of my go-to meals, especially on busy weeknights. The combination of plump shrimp, nutritious brown rice, and vibrant vegetables makes for a satisfying dish that keeps me energized. Plus, it's super easy to whip up in just a matter of minutes. Whether I’m prepping for the week or hosting friends, this recipe never disappoints!
Created by: Megan Scott
Recipe Type: Simple Healthy Meals Ideas
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine shrimp, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the veggies.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for about 5 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Stir in cooked brown rice, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g