High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Flavor Lab

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, and this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl fits the bill perfectly! With tender shrimp, vibrant veggies, and a flavorful sauce, this dish is a delightful way to refuel after a long day. The combination of protein and fresh ingredients makes it a satisfying choice for dinner. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when I want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:37:36.908Z

When I first created this High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl, I wanted something quick but satisfying: a meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. By sautéing the shrimp with garlic and lemon, I discovered that the aromatics really elevate the whole dish. I paired it with quinoa to keep the protein content high while introducing a nutty texture.

One crucial tip I learned is to cook the shrimp just until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, which ruins the experience. This quick approach keeps the shrimp tender while allowing the vibrant veggies to stay crisp. It's a balance that's absolutely important!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A healthy dose of protein from shrimp and quinoa
Colorful and nutritious vegetables that add crunch
Quick preparation—perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting Your Shrimp Cooking Technique

Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky, but the key is to watch for color changes. Shrimp are done when they turn a vibrant pink and curl slightly. If you overcook them, they can become rubbery. To avoid this, I recommend setting a timer for 3 minutes when cooking in the skillet. Once the first side is cooked, flip them and check for doneness as you go. This way, you can easily gauge the precise moment to take them off the heat.

Another important tip is to remove the shrimp from the skillet as soon as they are cooked to your liking. If you leave them in the pan, residual heat can continue to cook them, leading to an unappealing texture. For best results, consider using a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp onto a plate while allowing excess oil to drip off. This method helps retain their juiciness, making every bite tender and flavorful.

Maximizing Flavor with Vegetables

The vegetables in this shrimp dinner bowl not only add color but also contribute essential nutrients and texture. Broccoli florets, for instance, cook quickly, retaining a satisfying crunch. To achieve the perfect balance of tender yet crispy, I suggest adding them to the skillet right after the shrimp has nearly finished cooking—around the 2-minute mark. This way, they absorb some of the garlic and lemon flavors without becoming mushy.

If bell peppers aren’t your favorite, you can swap them out for other colorful veggies like snap peas or zucchini, which offer their own unique flavors and textures. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. For a little extra kick, consider sprinkling in some red pepper flakes along with the vegetables to elevate this dish's flavor profile.

Serving and Storing Tips

To serve the High Protein Shrimp Dinner Bowl, I like to layer the quinoa first to absorb all the flavors from the shrimp and veggies on top. For added freshness, a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro can elevate the presentation and flavor. If you're looking to pack it for lunch, allow it to cool slightly before storing in an airtight container. The bowl can be enjoyed cold, or gently reheated in the microwave for a quick meal.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, keep the components separate until you're ready to serve. This helps prevent the quinoa from soaking up too much moisture from the shrimp and veggies, keeping everything fresh. In terms of storage, the cooked shrimp and vegetables can last about 3 days in the fridge. If you decide to freeze it for longer storage, do so without the quinoa, which tends to become mushy, and reheat when you're ready to enjoy another nutritious meal.

Ingredients

Shrimp Dinner Bowl Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in diced bell pepper and broccoli florets, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until veggies are tender but still crispy.

Serve

Divide quinoa into bowls and top with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Finish with lemon zest for an extra flavor boost.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh parsley or basil works wonderfully with this dish!

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, allowing for a range of substitutions based on your dietary needs or what you have on hand. If you're allergic to shrimp or prefer a plant-based option, chickpeas or tofu make excellent protein substitutions. They can be seasoned in the same way and will contribute a hearty texture to the dish. Just ensure tofu is pressed and cubed for even cooking and flavor absorption.

In place of quinoa, you can use brown rice or farro, which both provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with the shrimp and veggies. However, be mindful that these grains may require different cooking times—brown rice typically needs about 30-35 minutes to become tender, so adjust your preparation accordingly.

Scaling the Recipe

Should you be cooking for a crowd, this recipe scales easily. Simply double or triple the amount of shrimp, quinoa, and vegetables while keeping the ratios consistent. Be mindful of your cooking equipment; ensure that your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

For larger gatherings, consider setting up a 'build-your-own' shrimp bowl station. Pre-cook the components and place them in separate bowls, allowing guests to assemble their bowls with selected ingredients. This interactive approach not only makes serving easier but also lets everyone customize their meals according to their preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in veggies like zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and variety!

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the shrimp is best fresh, you can prep the quinoa and cut the veggies ahead of time for quicker assembly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it a healthy option for those with gluten sensitivities.