Save Experience the vibrant flavors of the coast with this Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl. This healthy and colorful meal features succulent, seared shrimp seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, served over a nourishing base of grains and fresh Mediterranean vegetables. Finished with a velvety, homemade tahini sauce, it is a perfect balance of textures and tastes that brings the sunshine of the Mediterranean directly to your table.
Save This bowl is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The combination of warm, spiced shrimp against the cool crunch of cucumbers and cherry tomatoes creates a satisfying meal that feels light yet filling. Whether you are looking for a gourmet lunch or a simple dinner, this recipe delivers on every level.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined), 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Grains: 1 cup (180 g) cooked quinoa, brown rice, farro, or couscous.
- Mediterranean Vegetables: 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup (150 g) cucumber (diced), 1/2 cup (75 g) Kalamata olives (pitted and halved), 1/2 cup (75 g) red onion (thinly sliced), 1 cup (30 g) baby spinach or arugula.
- Tahini Sauce: 1/4 cup (60 g) tahini, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tbsp water, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp sea salt.
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), lemon wedges.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Grains
- Cook your choice of quinoa, rice, or couscous according to the package instructions and set aside.
- Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they become pink and opaque. Remove from the heat.
- Step 4: Whisk the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, cumin, and salt. Whisk until smooth, adding more water if necessary to achieve a drizzling consistency.
- Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- Layer serving bowls with the cooked grains, greens (spinach or arugula), tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and red onion.
- Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Top the vegetable beds with the sautéed shrimp. Drizzle generously with the prepared tahini sauce and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure success, use a high-quality skillet for a good sear on the shrimp and a whisk for a perfectly smooth sauce. Please note that this dish contains shellfish and sesame. If you are using farro or couscous, be aware that the dish will contain gluten; choose quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a different protein, you can easily substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. For those who enjoy dairy, adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds a lovely salty tang that complements the Mediterranean profile perfectly.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these bowls immediately while the shrimp is still warm. For a complete dining experience, pair this meal with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which cuts through the richness of the creamy tahini sauce.
Save With its bright colors and bold seasonings, the Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl is a celebration of fresh ingredients. It is a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal that is simple enough to master at home any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What grain works best for this bowl?
Quinoa is ideal for its light texture and quick cooking time, but brown rice offers nutty flavor and chewiness. Farro provides hearty substance, while couscous delivers delicate fluffiness. Choose based on your preference and pantry availability.
- → Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?
The grains, vegetables, and tahini sauce can be prepped up to 2 days in advance and stored separately in airtight containers. Cook the shrimp fresh just before serving for the best texture and flavor. The sauce may need thinning after refrigeration.
- → How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout, curling slightly. This typically takes 2–3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Avoid overcooking as they become rubbery. Remove from heat immediately once they change color and feel firm.
- → What can I use instead of tahini?
Greek yogurt creates a tangy, creamy alternative if you consume dairy. For nutty flavor without tahini, try almond butter or cashew butter blended with lemon. A simple olive oil and lemon vinaigrette works for a lighter finish.
- → Is this bowl suitable for meal prep?
This bowl meal preps beautifully. Store components in separate containers: grains, vegetables, sauce, and shrimp. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet or enjoy cold. Add fresh greens just before serving to maintain crispness. The flavors actually improve after marinating together.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Roasted bell peppers, grilled zucchini, or eggplant complement the Mediterranean profile. Artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes add depth. Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or dill elevate the bowl. Keep vegetables colorful and varied for maximum nutrition.