Blackened Shrimp Bowls – Bold, Flavorful, and Quick to Make
Blackened Shrimp Bowls are a bold and vibrant meal that perfectly balances spicy, smoky, and savory flavors with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each bowl is a flavor explosion: tender shrimp coated in a zesty blackening spice, paired with fluffy rice or grains, crisp vegetables, and a creamy or tangy sauce. The combination is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week.
These bowls are perfect for home cooks looking for a quick, restaurant-quality meal without complicated steps. The blackened seasoning infuses the shrimp with rich, smoky flavor, while the accompanying vegetables and grains provide balance and freshness. Adaptable and customizable, Blackened Shrimp Bowls cater to various dietary preferences and are a versatile addition to any meal rotation. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful bowl that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp, peeled & deveined | 1 lb | 480 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Blackening seasoning | 2 tbsp | 20 |
| Cooked rice or quinoa | 2 cups | 440 |
| Bell peppers, sliced | 1 cup | 40 |
| Zucchini, sliced | 1 cup | 20 |
| Red onion, sliced | ½ cup | 25 |
| Avocado, sliced | 1 medium | 240 |
| Lime wedges | 2 | 8 |
| Fresh cilantro | 2 tbsp | negligible |
| Salt & pepper | to taste | negligible |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and toss with blackening seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Sear shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Prepare the Grain Base
Cook rice or quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff and season lightly.
5. Assemble the Bowls
Divide the rice or quinoa into bowls. Top with sautéed vegetables and blackened shrimp. Add sliced avocado, lime wedges, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
6. Serve
Serve immediately, squeezing fresh lime over each bowl for a zesty finish.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Adjust the spice level: Add more blackening seasoning for heat, or use a milder blend for less spice.
- Change the grains: Swap rice for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Add extra vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, corn, or spinach can boost nutrition and flavor.
- Protein swap: Use chicken, salmon, or tofu if preferred.
- Sauce options: Drizzle with a creamy lime dressing, avocado crema, or a yogurt-based sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 28–30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35–40 g |
| Fat | 12–15 g |
| Fiber | 5–6 g |
| Sodium | 450–600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
- Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Great for meal prep; store shrimp and grains separately to maintain texture.
- Optional: top with pickled onions or fresh salsa for added flavor.
- Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, casual lunches, or entertaining guests.
Blackened Shrimp Bowls – Bold, Flavorful, and Quick to Make
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes350
kcalIngredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp blackening seasoning
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 cup sliced zucchini
½ cup sliced red onion
1 medium avocado, sliced
2 lime wedges
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
- Pat shrimp dry and toss with blackening seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
- Divide cooked rice or quinoa into bowls. Top with sautéed vegetables and blackened shrimp.
- Add sliced avocado, lime wedges, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to get a nice sear and flavorful crust.
Cook shrimp and vegetables separately if preparing ahead; assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make Blackened Shrimp Bowls ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the shrimp and vegetables separately and store them in airtight containers. Assemble the bowls just before serving to maintain freshness.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they sear properly.
3. How spicy is blackened seasoning?
Blackened seasoning is typically moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less seasoning, or using a milder blend.
4. Can I make this dish low-carb?
Yes! Swap rice or quinoa for cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates while keeping it flavorful.
5. Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?
Definitely! Chicken, salmon, tofu, or even scallops work well with blackened seasoning.
Conclusion
Blackened Shrimp Bowls are a simple yet bold meal that delivers rich, smoky flavors with fresh, healthy ingredients. Easy to prepare, highly customizable, and packed with protein and vegetables, they make a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option. With the right balance of spice, freshness, and texture, these bowls satisfy cravings while keeping meals nutritious and exciting. A delicious way to enjoy shrimp with a vibrant, restaurant-quality flair at home.
