These Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls are colorful and packed with flavor! With juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and tasty grains, they make a quick and healthy dinner option.
Whenever I make these, it feels like a mini vacation on a plate. Plus, I love how fast they come together—perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to cook forever!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use medium shrimp for this dish as they cook quickly and are tender. If you need a substitute, try chicken breast or tofu for a non-seafood option. You’ll need to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice flavor. If you’re out, any neutral oil like avocado oil will work. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that might overshadow the dish.
Quinoa or Couscous: Quinoa is higher in protein while couscous is softer and cooks quickly. If you have dietary restrictions, you can also use rice or a grain blend. Both will provide good texture to the bowl.
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a briny taste. You can replace them with green olives if you’re not a fan, or leave them out entirely for a milder flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a tangy bite. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based alternative or just skip it.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple with a few tips. The key is to avoid overcooking them!
- Ensure your shrimp are fully thawed if frozen. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding shrimp; this sears them nicely.
- Cook them for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll change color and curl up when done. If they’re rubbery, they’ve been cooked too long!
Keeping an eye on them will ensure perfectly tender shrimp every time.
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 6-8 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the heat and set aside.
3. Assemble Your Bowls:
In individual serving bowls, start by layering the bottom with the cooked quinoa or couscous. This will be the base of your bowl.
4. Add the Toppings:
Arrange your cooked shrimp over the grains. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and sliced Kalamata olives on top of the shrimp.
5. Finish with Cheese and Herbs:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley over the top of each bowl for extra flavor and color.
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the bowls and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. If you like, add a dollop of tzatziki or Greek yogurt for a creamy touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Mediterranean shrimp bowls immediately, and enjoy a quick and healthy meal that bursts with flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Quinoa or Couscous?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use rice, farro, or even a grain blend. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging to prepare them properly before adding to the bowls.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover Mediterranean shrimp bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep things moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the shrimp or toss them in fresh for crunch. The more veggies, the better!
