High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Lean & Nourishing

I absolutely love how easy and satisfying this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl is to prepare! Packed with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, it's become one of my go-to meals for a quick dinner during busy weeks. The combination of shrimp, quinoa, and fresh vegetables makes it not only delicious but also a protein powerhouse. With just a few simple steps, I can whip this up in no time and feel great knowing I'm nourishing my body.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:01:36.061Z

When I first experimented with my High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl, I wanted something that was both nutritious and packed with flavor. The key element for me was using fresh shrimp and a colorful mix of veggies to enhance the dish visually and nutritionally. I found that adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up all the flavors, making it even more delightful.

This bowl has quickly become a staple dish in my home. The balance of protein from the shrimp and wholesome carbohydrates from quinoa gives me lasting energy. Plus, I love that it can be customized with whatever fresh produce I have on hand, turning it into a unique meal every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein from tender shrimp and quinoa
Versatile and customizable with seasonal vegetables
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as the foundation of this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl, not only providing a nutty flavor but also enhancing the meal's nutritional profile. As a complete protein, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to boost their protein intake. Additionally, its fluffy texture complements the tender shrimp and crisp vegetables, providing a satisfying contrast in each bite.

To ensure perfectly cooked quinoa, make sure to rinse it before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. While simmering, keep an eye on the water—it should be just absorbed but not burnt. If you notice that the quinoa seems too dry before the timer goes off, a splash of additional broth can help achieve that ideal fluffy consistency.

Cooking the Shrimp to Perfection

Shrimp is a quick-cooking protein that can easily become rubbery if overcooked. For this recipe, medium heat is essential. Aim for a cooking time of just 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, which indicates they're done. It's best to use fresh shrimp if possible, but frozen shrimp can be a great alternative—just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to promote even cooking.

Adding cherry tomatoes right at the end helps to infuse the dish with a fresh burst of flavor while maintaining their juicy texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the skillet as you cook the shrimp, enhancing the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Personalizing Your Bowl

One of the great things about this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, or spinach are excellent substitutes and will add their own unique flavors. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly for denser vegetables, aiming for tender yet crisp results.

For a heartier bowl, you can incorporate legumes like chickpeas or black beans, increasing the protein and fiber content. This can also help stretch the meal if you're serving a larger group. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this bowl an ideal meal prep option—just store the components separately until ready to eat to keep everything fresh.

Ingredients

Shrimp Dinner Bowl Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 zucchini, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl!

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before flaking with a fork.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in diced zucchini and red bell pepper, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until softened.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in cherry tomatoes and lemon juice, cooking for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa topped with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon juice if desired. Enjoy your high-protein meal!

Your High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl is ready to serve! Enjoy it warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli or snap peas, to customize the flavor profile of your meal!

Serving Suggestions

This High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by serving it alongside a light salad or a piece of crusty whole-grain bread. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese atop the bowl can also add creaminess and contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Consider pairing this dish with a crisp, white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements seafood beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can provide a refreshing balance to the meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl in advance can save time during busy weekdays. Cook the quinoa and the shrimp mixture ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can be kept fresh for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to bring back the moisture.

To keep the vegetables from becoming soggy, consider preparing them fresh on the day you intend to serve the bowl. Alternatively, you can lightly steam or roast them beforehand and add them just before serving for a vibrant, crunchy texture.

Storage and Freezing

If you plan to store leftovers, keep all components in separate containers to maintain their textures—especially the shrimp and the cooked quinoa. Properly stored, they should last about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp and vegetable mixture in a sealed freezer bag for up to a month. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When freezing, consider portioning out servings to make reheating easier. If you've added any creamy sauces, be cautious when freezing as they can change in texture upon reheating. A drizzle of fresh lemon juice after reheating can brighten up flavors that may dull during storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

If quinoa isn't available, you can substitute it with brown rice or couscous for a similar texture.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.

→ Can I add more spices?

Definitely! Adding spices like paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of chili powder can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.