High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl

Name: High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Speedy Favorites

I absolutely love creating quick and nutritious meals, and this High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl has become one of my favorites! It’s a delightful mix of succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice, packed with protein that fuels my day. Preparing it only takes a matter of minutes, and I often find myself experimenting with different sauces to elevate the flavors. Whether I'm having it for lunch or dinner, it never fails to impress with its simplicity and satisfying taste.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:09:37.603Z

When I first tried making a shrimp rice bowl, I was blown away by how well the flavors blended together. The key is to marinate the shrimp for just a few minutes, allowing the spices and garlic to infuse the meat beautifully. I also discovered that using jasmine rice adds a lovely fragrance that complements the dish perfectly.

Over time, I have perfected the cooking times to ensure that the shrimp is tender and juicy, not rubbery. I also love tossing in whatever veggies I have on hand, making each bowl a little different and a lot more colorful. It’s like a creative outlet and a meal in one!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful marinated shrimp that are juicy and tender.
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or sauces.

Perfecting the Rice

The key to fluffy jasmine rice lies in the right water-to-rice ratio and cooking technique. For this recipe, use a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio, which ensures the rice absorbs enough moisture to cook properly. A gentle simmer is ideal; cook on low heat after bringing to a boil to avoid burning the rice at the bottom. After cooking, let it rest for 5-10 minutes covered to allow the steam to finish the cooking process, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains.

If you're short on time, consider using a rice cooker for hassle-free cooking. The rice cooker can ensure perfectly cooked rice every time, allowing you to focus on sautéing the shrimp and vegetables. If at any point the rice appears too sticky, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains before serving.

Versatile Shrimp Preparation

Marinating the shrimp can elevate the dish significantly. Though the soy sauce and sesame oil provide great flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a zesty kick. The shrimp should marinate briefly—10 to 15 minutes is sufficient to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. This technique can enhance the taste and create a more memorable dining experience.

Cooking shrimp requires vigilance; overcooked shrimp turns rubbery and tough. When added to the skillet, watch for the color change from grey to pink. It typically takes about 4-5 minutes for shrimp to cook through completely, ensuring they remain tender and juicy. Using a cast iron or non-stick skillet can also help evenly cook the shrimp and prevent sticking.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best parts of this shrimp rice bowl is its versatility. Feel free to substitute the broccoli and bell pepper with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or snap peas, which can add freshness and vibrant color to the dish. If you prefer added textures, consider throwing in some roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for crunch, making the dish not only visually appealing but also more satisfying to eat.

To make this dish lactose-free or gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free variety or tamari. For a lighter version, you can replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice; just sauté it briefly to maintain some crunch. Experimenting with sauces like teriyaki or a sweet chili glaze can also bring a new dimension to the overall flavor of the bowl.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add bell pepper and broccoli, sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil. Cook for 4-5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Assemble the Bowl

In each bowl, fluff the jasmine rice and top with the sautéed shrimp and vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp, vegetables, and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps everything fresh and allows you to reheat only what you need. The shrimp usually holds up well for 1-2 days, while the rice is best consumed within 3-4 days.

When reheating, do so gently in a pan with a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat over low-medium until warmed through, stirring often. If reheating in the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Scaling the Recipe

This High Protein Shrimp Rice Bowl is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If making for a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed, maintaining the same ratios. It’s wise to cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.

For meal prep or weekly lunches, consider doubling the rice and shrimp but keeping the vegetables and sauces separate until serving to avoid sogginess. This way, you can prepare fresh bowls each day with minimal effort, ensuring that flavors and textures stay at their best.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What if I'm not a fan of shrimp?

You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or your preferred protein.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

→ Can I prep this meal in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the rice and shrimp ahead of time and combine them just before serving.