High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2.0
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Wellness Table Creations

I absolutely love creating vibrant, healthy meals, and this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl is a perfect example of my culinary adventures. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a quick dish that comes together in about 30 minutes. The combination of shrimp, quinoa, and fresh vegetables not only offers a protein boost but also loads of taste and color to the bowl. You'll find it’s so easy to tweak ingredients to suit your personal preferences, making it a versatile option for any meal prep routine.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:33:35.777Z

When I first crafted this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl, I wanted to combine my love for seafood with fresh, healthy ingredients. I knew shrimp would not only provide the protein boost I sought but also a delightful texture that complements the dish.

What I love most is the quinoa base; it adds a nutty flavor and makes the meal even more satisfying. Cooking the shrimp just right is crucial – I recommend a quick sauté to ensure they're juicy and tender, letting their natural flavors shine through while being surrounded by colorful veggies.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with flavors from succulent shrimp and colorful vegetables
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious and satisfying without feeling heavy

Cooking Quinoa to Perfection

Cooking quinoa properly is essential for achieving the right texture and flavor. Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Once rinsed, combine it with water in a pot and bring to a rapid boil before reducing the heat. Simmer covered for about 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. The quinoa should be fluffy yet tender—if it's crunchy, it likely needs a bit more time.

For added flavor, consider using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water when cooking the quinoa. This will infuse the grains with more complexity, complementing the shrimp and vegetables. After cooking, let it sit covered for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork—this resting period enhances its texture by allowing steam to distribute evenly.

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Cooking shrimp is quick, and getting it just right is key to a tender bite. Heat your skillet to medium and let the olive oil get hot, ensuring it's shimmering but not smoking before adding the garlic. Garlic should be sautéed until fragrant, about 30 seconds, but be cautious—burning can lead to a bitter taste. Add the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking, ideally in batches if your skillet isn't large enough.

The shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque, approximately 3 to 5 minutes, depending on size. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so pay close attention and remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked through. If the skillet is crowded, the shrimp will steam instead of sear, so space them out.

Customizing Your Bowl

This shrimp dinner bowl is incredibly customizable. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. Zucchini, asparagus, or even green beans can be delightful alternatives. Keep in mind that some vegetables may require different cooking times; for instance, asparagus will take slightly longer to become tender, while cucumbers, if added raw, can provide a refreshing crunch when served on top.

For a creamier texture, consider adding avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt atop your bowl. Nutritional yeast can also enhance the dish's flavor while providing additional protein and a cheesy feel without dairy. When preparing for meal prep, store the shrimp and quinoa separately from the vegetables to maintain their individual flavors and textures; simply combine when ready to serve.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl.

Cook the Quinoa

In a pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, then add the shrimp. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Mix in the diced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet with the shrimp. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Finish the Bowl

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Serve the shrimp and vegetable mixture over the quinoa, garnishing with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl can easily fit into a meal prep routine. Cooked quinoa and shrimp can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. This method allows for quick reheating while maintaining the freshness of the vegetables when you serve them. To reheat, simply microwave the quinoa and shrimp until heated through, about 1-2 minutes, or until just warm.

If you'd like to prepare the shrimp ahead, consider marinating it in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to infuse flavor before cooking. You can do this the night before and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, making the cooking process even quicker on the day you plan to serve it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your quinoa turns out mushy, it could be due to excess water or cooking too long. Adjust the water ratio next time to 1:1 if you find water remaining after cooking. For perfect chewiness, let it simmer just until the water is absorbed, and then fluff gently with a fork to separate the grains.

For shrimp, timing is crucial to avoid a rubbery texture. If you find this happens, consider cooking at a slightly lower heat to allow for even cooking. If you do overcook it, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can help brighten the flavor, but start focusing on timing to prevent this in future preparations.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra punch of brightness. The acidity of the lemon will beautifully complement the sweetness of the shrimp and the earthiness of the quinoa. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can add a delightful crunch and an extra nutty flavor.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider drizzling sriracha or adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the top just before serving. This bowl can also be paired with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables to create a more extensive meal that's well-balanced and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Substitute shrimp with chickpeas or tofu for a vegan option.

→ What can I use instead of quinoa?

Brown rice or couscous would work as great substitutes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.