Grilled Shrimp Avocado Rice Bowls (Mediterranean-Style)
Description
Juicy grilled shrimp marinated in olive oil, lemon, and garlic are layered over warm rice and topped with creamy avocado and fresh vegetables. Finished with herbs and a bright drizzle, this bowl is nourishing, colorful, and ideal for quick dinners or meal prep without feeling boring.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Shrimp
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of ½ lemon
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Bowls
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2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or basmati)
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1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 small cucumber, diced
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¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Optional Mediterranean Drizzle
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¼ cup Greek yogurt
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 small garlic clove, grated
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate 10–15 minutes.
2. Grill the Shrimp
Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high.
Grill shrimp 2–3 minutes per side, until pink, lightly charred, and cooked through.
3. Make the Drizzle (Optional)
Whisk all drizzle ingredients until smooth. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
4. Assemble the Bowls
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Add warm rice to each bowl.
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Top with grilled shrimp, avocado slices, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
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Drizzle with yogurt sauce and finish with fresh herbs.
Q & A
Q: Can I cook the shrimp without a grill?
A: Yes! Pan-sear in a hot skillet or roast at 425°F (220°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Definitely. Store shrimp, rice, and veggies separately. Add avocado fresh.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Skip the yogurt sauce and drizzle extra olive oil with lemon instead.
Q: What rice works best?
A: Basmati for lightness, brown rice for fiber, or even cauliflower rice for low-carb.
Q: Can I add extra Mediterranean flavors?
A: Yes—olives, feta, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of za’atar are amazing here.
