Description
Packed with zesty Mediterranean flair, Mediterranean Shrimp & Veggie Bowl delivers a symphony of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Crisp vegetables, succulent shrimp, and aromatic herbs create a delightful meal that transports you to coastal charm with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Produce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Seasonings and Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for shrimp)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Infuse shrimp with a zesty marinade by blending olive oil, garlic, paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Allow the shrimp to absorb these flavors for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Sear the marinated shrimp in a preheated pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into a vibrant pink and become completely opaque. Transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
- Prepare a colorful vegetable medley by halving cherry tomatoes, slicing cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Julienne carrots and finely chop fresh cilantro for added texture and brightness.
- Craft a tangy dressing by whisking together olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings to create a harmonious flavor profile.
- Build the bowl by layering a bed of fresh greens like mixed salad, spinach, or peppery arugula as the foundation.
- Artfully arrange the seared shrimp as the centerpiece, surrounding it with the prepared vegetable slices, sweet corn kernels, and creamy avocado chunks.
- Generously drizzle the prepared dressing over the bowl and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a final burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Marinate shrimp briefly to enhance flavor and keep them tender, preventing rubbery texture during cooking.
- Choose quick-cooking shrimp like medium or large size for even, speedy preparation without overcooking.
- Use fresh citrus zest and juice to brighten the dish’s overall taste profile and add vibrant, zesty notes.
- Swap protein easily by substituting shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg