Grilled Shrimp Bowl: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the ocean and the freshness of garden vegetables, making it a favorite for seafood lovers and health enthusiasts alike. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think about the rich history of grilled seafood in coastal cultures around the world. From the beaches of the Mediterranean to the shores of Southeast Asia, grilling shrimp has been a cherished tradition, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.

What I love most about the Grilled Shrimp Bowl is its incredible versatility. The succulent, smoky shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings, from zesty avocado to crunchy slaw, creating a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Extra lime wedges for serving

Preparing the Marinade

First things first, let’s get our shrimp marinated. This step is crucial as it infuses the shrimp with flavor and ensures they are juicy and delicious when grilled.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Whisk everything together until well combined.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Make sure each shrimp is coated in the marinade. I like to use my hands for this, but a spatula works too!
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it sit for an hour or two will enhance the flavors even more.

Cooking the Quinoa

While the shrimp is marinating, let’s prepare the quinoa. This will serve as the base for our grilled shrimp bowl.

1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth for added flavor). Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
4. After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to fluff up nicely.
5. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.

Grilling the Shrimp

Now that our shrimp is marinated and the quinoa is ready, it’s time to fire up the grill!

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
2. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
3. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer. Make sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
4. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the grill too long.
5. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute.

Assembling the Grilled Shrimp Bowl

Now comes the fun part—assembling our delicious grilled shrimp bowl! This is where you can get creative and customize it to your liking.

1. In a large serving bowl or individual bowls, start by adding a generous scoop of the cooked quinoa as the base.
2. Next, layer on the grilled shrimp skewers. You can either leave them on the skewers for presentation or remove the shrimp and place them directly on the quinoa.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced

Conclusion:

In summary, this Grilled Shrimp Bowl is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game with a burst of flavor and freshness. The combination of perfectly grilled shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful harmony that is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Grilled Shrimp Bowl with a side of cilantro-lime rice or quinoa for an extra boost of texture and flavor. You can also customize it by adding your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or even a handful of crunchy nuts for added crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Grilled Shrimp Bowl a try! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together and inspire others to dive into this delicious recipe. Happy grilling!

Print