This Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a colorful dish packed with fresh veggies and juicy shrimp. It’s light, healthy, and super simple to whip up in no time!
Create a fun meal by letting everyone build their own bowl. I love adding lots of avocado and a squeeze of lime—it really makes the flavors pop! 🥑✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works fine! If using frozen, thaw them before cooking. For a vegetarian option, try using marinated tofu or chickpeas instead.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor. If you prefer, avocado oil or even a bit of sesame oil can add a fun twist!
Rice or Quinoa: I love quinoa for its texture, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice will work too, making it lower in carbs. Switch it up based on what you enjoy!
Veggies: Feel free to mix and match! Bell peppers, corn, or radishes can add variety and crunch. I sometimes throw in some baby spinach for extra nutrients.
Cilantro: I’m a big fan of cilantro, but if you’re not, fresh parsley or even basil can be a good substitute.
How Do You Grill Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Grilling shrimp is quick, but overcooking can make them rubbery. Here are my tips:
- Always preheat the grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps cook them evenly.
- For even cooking, try to keep the shrimp similar in size.
- Cook for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink when done, which is your cue to take them off the heat!
Watch closely as they cook since shrimp can go from perfect to overdone in seconds—nobody likes chewy shrimp! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese or crumbled cotija cheese
- Optional: Your favorite dressing or a squeeze of fresh lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of about 20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your shrimp cook evenly and get a lovely char.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until they are all well coated. This seasoning gives the shrimp a delicious flavor!
3. Skewer the Shrimp:
For easier grilling, thread the shrimp onto skewers. If you prefer, you can place them directly on the grill as well. Make sure not to overcrowd them!
4. Grill the Shrimp:
Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You will know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the grill and set aside.
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to build your bowls! Start by dividing the cooked rice or quinoa among your serving bowls. This is the base of your meal.
6. Add the Fresh Veggies:
Top each bowl with the grilled shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded lettuce. Feel free to arrange them nicely for an appealing look!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro and feta or cotija cheese on top. Serve each bowl with lime wedges and a drizzle of your favorite dressing or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Creation!
Dig in and enjoy your refreshing grilled shrimp bowl filled with fresh veggies. It’s a delightful meal you can feel good about!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Fresh Veggies
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Rice or Quinoa?
If you want to switch things up, feel free to use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Brown rice or even farro can work well too! Choose whatever grain or substitute fits your dietary preference.
How Do I Store Leftovers from This Bowl?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this bowl vegetarian! Replace the shrimp with marinated tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a protein-packed option. You can also grill some veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for added flavor!
