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High Protein Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls - Fast, Flavorful, and Satisfying

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

Ingredients
  

  • For the rice bowls:
  • 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon + 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables, thinly sliced (e.g., bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, shredded cabbage, or steamed broccoli)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional toppings:
  • Avocado slices
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Greek yogurt or sriracha mayo
  • Lime or lemon wedges

Method
 

  1. Cook the rice: Prepare your rice according to package directions. Keep it warm and fluff with a fork.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry: Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. This helps them sear instead of steam.
  3. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Prep aromatics: Mince the garlic, chop the herbs, and slice the veggies so they’re ready to go.
  5. Heat the pan: Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.
  6. Sear the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly browned. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if needed. Transfer to a plate.
  7. Make the garlic sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Stir in garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  8. Deglaze and brighten: Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Scrape up any browned bits. Simmer 30 seconds.
  9. Coat the shrimp: Return shrimp and any juices to the pan. Toss for 30–60 seconds to coat and warm through. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon.
  10. Assemble the bowls: Divide warm rice into bowls. Top with shrimp and sauce. Add veggies, herbs, and green onions. Finish with optional toppings like avocado, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of yogurt or sriracha mayo.