High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked brown rice; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 carrot, julienned; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I’m excited to share my High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl with you! This recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly nutritious. The combination of shrimp, brown rice, and fresh vegetables makes for a satisfying meal that keeps me energized throughout the day. With a spicy garlic-lime sauce, it brings all the ingredients together in a vibrant, colorful dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful and easy recipe!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:47:35.654Z

One of my favorite weeknight meals is this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl. The blend of shrimp, brown rice, and fresh veggies not only delivers an impressive protein punch but also offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. I love ensuring that every bite has a bit of shrimp and crunchy vegetables, along with the tangy sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

What really makes this recipe shine is the quick cooking method I’ve perfected over time. By sautéing the shrimp with garlic and lime, I found that it seals in the flavors beautifully. Plus, using cooked brown rice saves time and gives a nutty undertone that complements the shrimp perfectly. It's definitely a recipe I'll keep returning to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner
A delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite
High in protein to keep you full and satisfied

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to maximizing flavor and nutritional value in the High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl. Fresh shrimp not only provide a juicy burst of flavor but also cook quickly, ensuring they remain tender and succulent. When selecting your vegetables, opt for vibrant colors and firm textures—this indicates peak freshness, which will enhance the overall dish. Using seasonal produce can also introduce a variety of flavors and nutrients, making your bowl even more exciting and wholesome.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with your vegetable choices! Though this recipe calls for bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, you can easily substitute these with snap peas, zucchini, or even asparagus in the spring. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have varying cooking times. For instance, asparagus may take slightly longer to become tender, so adjust your stir-frying time accordingly. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish according to your pantry or what’s in season.

Mastering the Garlic-Lime Sauce

The spicy garlic-lime sauce ties this shrimp rice bowl together, creating a bright and zesty flavor profile. To enhance the sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swapping in lime zest for extra citrus aroma. The acid from the lime not only brightens the dish but also balances the richness of the shrimp and olive oil, creating a well-rounded taste. Mixing the juice in at the end preserves its fresh flavor, so your bowl is vibrant and juicy right from the first bite.

To ensure the perfect sauce consistency, be attentive to how much lime juice you add. Start with one lime—juice it directly into the skillet and taste as you go. If you want it tangier, you can add another half lime. A common mistake is overdoing it and making the dish too sour. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to find the right balance, making sure that every spoonful is flavorful without overwhelming the delicate taste of the shrimp.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup cooked brown rice
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.

Cook the Vegetables

Once the shrimp are almost cooked, add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry the veggies for another 5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Combine and Serve

Add the lime juice to the shrimp and vegetables, tossing everything together. Serve the mixture over cooked brown rice and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chili flakes to the shrimp while cooking for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

This shrimp rice bowl makes for an excellent meal prep option. You can cook the brown rice and shrimp ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, quickly reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through, then add the veggies and lime juice. This ensures your veggies remain crisp and fresh, which is essential for keeping the dish enjoyable.

If you plan to make this dish for the week, consider prepping the vegetables in advance as well. Chop your bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli and store them in the fridge for up to three days. This reduces cooking time on busy weeknights, allowing you to put this nutritious meal together in under 15 minutes!

Serving Suggestions

When serving your High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl, consider a variety of side dishes to complement the main. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can enhance the meal without adding too much heaviness. Alternatively, a side of grilled corn or zucchini enhances the summer vibes and complements the dish’s bright flavors.

You might also enjoy pairing this bowl with a cool avocado salad or some tortilla chips for extra crunch. The contrasting textures and flavors create a more dynamic dining experience. If you're looking to spice it up even further, serve it with a side of spicy salsa or hot sauce for those who like an extra kick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed before cooking.

→ Can I substitute white rice for brown rice?

Absolutely! White rice will work, but it won't have the same nutritional benefits as brown rice.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snap peas, corn, or zucchini to suit your taste.