Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl offers an irresistible combination of savory shrimp, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s light yet filling, with a satisfying texture thanks to the addition of rice, quinoa, or even greens. Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or lunch, this dish is quick to make and packs a punch of freshness. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or toppings, making it a versatile meal you’ll love to come back to.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Zest and juice of 2 limes

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup cooked rice, quinoa, or greens (like spinach or arugula)

• 1/2 avocado, sliced (for garnish)

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)

• Lime wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine and create a marinade.

2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for more flavor.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

4. While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the base for the bowl by placing your choice of rice, quinoa, or greens in a bowl.

5. Once the shrimp are cooked, arrange them on top of the rice or greens.

6. Garnish with sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, extra cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 20 minutes

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, corn, or roasted sweet potatoes to the bowl for extra texture and flavor.

• Use a different protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can substitute chicken breast or grilled tofu for a different protein.

• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade for an extra kick of heat.

• Add a dressing: For added creaminess, drizzle a cilantro-lime dressing or a yogurt-based sauce over the bowl.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the shrimp and rice (or quinoa) in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and cooking.

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time by marinating the shrimp and cooking the rice or quinoa. Assemble the bowls right before serving for the freshest taste.

Can I make this dish without rice?

Yes! You can skip the rice and serve the shrimp over a bed of greens for a low-carb, fresh option.

How do I make the shrimp more flavorful?

Marinating the shrimp for at least 15 minutes will infuse them with flavor. For more depth, try marinating the shrimp longer or adding a bit of honey or soy sauce to the marinade.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly and should turn pink and opaque when done. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Can I use a different citrus instead of lime?

Yes, you can swap lime for lemon or even orange juice for a slightly different flavor profile, though lime gives it that signature zesty, tropical taste.

Can I add beans to the bowl?

Yes, black beans or kidney beans would be a great addition to this bowl for extra protein and fiber.

Can I prepare the shrimp the night before?

While it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh, you can marinate them overnight in the fridge to enhance the flavor.

Can I use store-bought cilantro-lime dressing?

Yes, if you prefer a shortcut, store-bought cilantro-lime dressing works perfectly and can be drizzled over the bowl for added creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the ingredients in the rice or quinoa for any added gluten if using a pre-packaged product.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowls are a refreshing, quick, and healthy meal that packs bold flavors and textures. With marinated shrimp, tangy lime, fresh cilantro, and customizable toppings, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this bowl is as delicious as it is versatile, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.