Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls – Fresh & Flavorful

Discover how to make easy Mediterranean shrimp bowls packed with vibrant flavors. A quick, healthy dinner perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love It

Easy Mediterranean shrimp bowls deliver a vibrant, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. This recipe combines fresh, bright vegetables, tender shrimp, and savory Mediterranean flavors that please any palate. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or easy meal prep, these bowls are not only delicious but also nutritious and naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (substitute with lime juice if preferred)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (Italian seasoning works too)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa (cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (green olives for a milder taste)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or vegan feta for dairy-free)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Tzatziki sauce for serving (optional, can use dairy-free yogurt for vegan)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. While shrimp cooks, prepare your base: divide the cooked rice or quinoa evenly into four serving bowls.
4. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the grains in each bowl.
5. Top with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and drizzle with tzatziki sauce if using. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Looking for more speedy meals? Check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and Mediterranean Diet Recipes for delicious inspiration.

Expert Tips

Choose medium to large shrimp for best texture. Make sure not to overcook; shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. For extra flavor, marinate shrimp for 15 minutes before cooking. Want more zest? Add a splash of red wine vinegar or extra lemon juice just before serving.

If prepping ahead, keep the shrimp and salad components separate until ready to assemble to ensure freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover shrimp bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid mixing in tzatziki or fresh herbs until serving. Shrimp can be frozen cooked or raw, but texture may decline; it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace shrimp with marinated grilled tofu or chickpeas; use vegan feta and dairy-free tzatziki.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just confirm your seasonings and tzatziki do not contain hidden gluten.
• Dairy-Free: Omit feta or substitute with a dairy-free cheese. Use dairy-free yogurt for tzatziki sauce.
• Low-Carb: Swap rice/quinoa for cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.

FAQ

Q: How do I make easy Mediterranean shrimp bowls at home?
A: Simply season shrimp with classic Mediterranean herbs and spices, cook quickly in a skillet, and serve over grains with fresh veggies, olives, and feta. The full recipe above guides you step-by-step.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture when cooking.

Q: What can I substitute if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
A: Green olives or capers can add a similar briny flavor.

Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: Absolutely! It’s rich in protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it a balanced and nutritious option.

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