Description
Zesty Shrimp and Rice Delight Bowls are a flavorful, healthy meal option that combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked rice and a zesty, tangy dressing. With a pop of lime and a touch of spice, these bowls are bursting with vibrant flavors and are perfect for lunch or dinner. Quick, satisfying, and full of fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice (or brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice)
- 2 cups water or broth (for cooking rice)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
For the Zesty Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil. Add the rice, garlic powder, and salt. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes (depending on rice type) until tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from heat.
- Make the Zesty Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice between 4 bowls. Top each with a portion of the cooked shrimp.
- Add diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion on top. Drizzle with the zesty dressing.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, you can add avocado or a dollop of sour cream to the bowls.
- If you prefer more spice, increase the cayenne pepper in the shrimp marinade or add hot sauce to the dressing.
- To make the dish gluten-free, ensure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free, or use a different mustard variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 210mg