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High Protein Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowls - Simple, Fresh, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off)
  • 3 cups cooked rice (white, jasmine, basmati, or brown)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon
  • Juice of 1/2–1 lemon (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for balance)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small avocado, sliced (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Lime or extra lemon wedges, for serving

Method
 

  1. Cook the rice: Prepare your rice according to package directions. Fluff and keep warm. If meal prepping, cook extra.
  2. Pat dry the shrimp: Use paper towels to remove moisture so they sear, not steam. Toss with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Mix a quick pan sauce: In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, lemon juice, honey (if using), and lemon zest. Set aside.
  4. Sear the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Sauté the garlic: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same pan. When melted, add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown).
  6. Glaze and finish: Pour in the pan sauce and let it bubble for 30–60 seconds to thicken slightly. Return shrimp and toss to coat. Taste and adjust salt, lemon, or soy.
  7. Assemble bowls: Add warm rice to bowls. Top with garlic shrimp and pan sauce. Add cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, and green onions. Sprinkle with parsley or cilantro.
  8. Serve: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime. Enjoy right away.