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High Protein Garlic Butter Shrimp 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
  

  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro)
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa (or 4 cups steamed cauliflower rice for lower carbs)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables, cooked or raw (ideas: steamed broccoli, sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach)
  • 1 small avocado, sliced (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear better and cook more evenly. Toss with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Warm your base: If using rice or quinoa, reheat it so the bowls assemble hot. If using cauliflower rice, quickly sauté it in a bit of olive oil with a pinch of salt.
  3. Cook the vegetables: Steam broccoli or sauté zucchini and cherry tomatoes until just tender. Keep the veggies crisp so they hold up in the bowl.
  4. Sear the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When melted and hot, add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and slightly browned. Remove to a plate.
  5. Make the garlic butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  6. Finish with lemon and herbs: Add lemon zest and lemon juice to the pan. Scrape up any browned bits. Return shrimp and toss to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle in parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Assemble the bowls: Divide the base into bowls. Top with shrimp and spoon over extra garlic butter sauce. Add veggies and avocado if using. Serve with lemon wedges.