Zesty Lime Shrimp Bowls with Cilantro Rice
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| Zesty Lime Shrimp Bowls with Cilantro Rice |
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1 ½ cups jasmine or basmati rice, rinsed
- 2 ¾ cups water or broth
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (loosely packed)
- Sliced avocado
- Cherry tomatoes
- Corn (fresh, frozen, or grilled)
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Black beans (drained and rinsed)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro
1. Marinate the Shrimp
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Add olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Toss until all the shrimp are well coated.
Let the shrimp marinate for 10–15 minutes—no longer, because the lime juice will begin to “cook” them. This quick marinade ensures they absorb the zesty flavors while staying tender.
2. Cook the Cilantro Rice
In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, water or broth, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit—covered—for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then pour in the fresh lime juice and fold in the chopped cilantro. The aroma of lime and herbs instantly transforms the rice into a refreshing base for your bowl.
3. Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil if needed. Once hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn pink, slightly golden, and curl into “C” shapes. Avoid overcooking—they can become rubbery if left too long.
Once done, remove them from the heat. The leftover marinade in the pan will create a delicious glaze
.
4. Prepare the Optional Toppings
While the shrimp or rice cooks, prepare your bowl ingredients:
Divide the cilantro rice into 4 serving bowls. Top each bowl with the zesty lime shrimp, arranging them neatly for presentation. Add your chosen toppings—avocado slices, tomatoes, corn, beans, onions, or herbs.
Finish with an extra squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for brightness.
4. Prepare the Optional Toppings
While the shrimp or rice cooks, prepare your bowl ingredients:
- Slice avocados
- Halve cherry tomatoes
- Warm canned corn or grill fresh corn
- Drain and rinse black beans
- Slice red onion thinly
- This step adds freshness, color, and texture to your bowl, making it visually beautiful and nutritionally balanced.
Divide the cilantro rice into 4 serving bowls. Top each bowl with the zesty lime shrimp, arranging them neatly for presentation. Add your chosen toppings—avocado slices, tomatoes, corn, beans, onions, or herbs.
Finish with an extra squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
- Casual Weeknight Dinner: Serve with warm tortillas or crispy pita on the side.
- Summer Lunch: Pair with a chilled sparkling water or iced tea.
- Meal Prep: Store rice and shrimp separately to maintain texture; assemble fresh before eating.
- Family Style: Serve toppings buffet-style so everyone customizes their bowl.
- Add Greens: Serve over shredded lettuce or baby spinach for a lighter, low-carb version.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Bowls
1. Don’t Over-Marinate
Shrimp absorb flavors quickly. More than 15 minutes in lime juice can make their texture mushy.
2. Use Fresh Lime
Bottled lime juice lacks the bright, aromatic oils found in fresh zest and juice. Fresh citrus is essential in this recipe.
3. Hot Pan = Perfect Sear
Cooking shrimp in a hot skillet ensures they develop a juicy, golden crust without drying out.
4. Customize the Rice
For extra flavor:
- Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water
- Add garlic powder or sautéed onions to the rice
- Swap with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative
If you love spice, sprinkle the shrimp with cayenne or add sliced jalapeños to the bowl.
6. Keep It Fresh
Add toppings right before serving so they don’t wilt or become soggy.
Final Thought
Zesty Lime Shrimp Bowls with Cilantro Rice offer the perfect harmony of flavor: citrusy brightness, savory shrimp, fragrant rice, and fresh toppings that elevate every bite. Whether you’re cooking a lively family dinner or prepping meals for a busy week, this recipe delivers freshness, nutrition, and satisfaction all in one beautiful bowl. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and quick preparation make this a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
Happy Serving & Bon Appétit!