Cilantro Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowls
Try this Cilantro Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowl recipe.
Try this Cilantro Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowl recipe.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon cilantro chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons red onion diced
- 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- juice of half a lime
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained (i used rainbow quinoa)
- 2 mangos, peeled and diced
- 2 teaspoon grapeseed oil or other flavorless oil
- 1/2 of a ripe avocado peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup plain non fat greek yogurt
- Carbohydrate 18.8650903960085 g
- Cholesterol 172.3651006 mg
- Fat 2.40192694982802 g
- Fiber 5.96955678634367 g
- Protein 29.0974591496184 g
- Saturated Fat 0.475628815778613 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (204g)
- Sodium 415.69309254691 mg
- Sugar 12.8955336096648 g
- Trans Fat 0.647012263935163 g
- Calories 215 calories
Step-by-step
- In a medium sized sauce pan bring the quinoa, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Once the quinoa is boiling reduce the heat to medium low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Off the heat stir in the lime juice and cilantro. Season with more salt if necessary.
- In a large bowl toss together the diced mangos, red onion, cilantro, chili powder, and salt.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- In a blender combine all of the ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Scoop the crema out into a bowl or put it in a squeeze bottle, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and the cumin.
- Heat the oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium high heat.
- When the skillet is hot add in the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes then flip them over and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
- At the very end of the cooking squeeze in the juice of half a lime and add in the chopped cilantro.
- Fill each bowl with about 1/2 a cup of the cooked quinoa.
- Top the quinoa with a 1/4 of the shrimp, 1/4 of the black beans, and as much mango salsa and avocado cream as desired.
- Serve immediately.
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowls: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to prepare healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. But I've discovered the magic of meal prepping, and this Cilantro Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowl recipe has become a staple in our family's weekly rotation. It's quick, it's vibrant, and it's packed with flavor and nutrients – exactly what I need to fuel my family and myself through a busy week. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make, even on those nights when I’m juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and everything in between.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. I often adjust the ingredients based on what’s fresh and available at the market. Sometimes I swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu, adding a different protein dimension. The mango salsa, a burst of sweet and tangy flavor, is always a crowd-pleaser. My kids love the vibrant colors and the refreshing taste, and honestly, so do I! The avocado crema adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the other elements of the dish. I've experimented with different types of quinoa – red, black, or even a mix – and they all work wonderfully.
This recipe isn’t just a quick meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients. The bright citrus notes of the lime juice, the earthy flavor of the quinoa, the sweetness of the mango, and the savory kick of the shrimp all come together in a harmonious dance of flavors. And the best part is that it’s easily adaptable to dietary needs. You can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and adding extra beans or vegetables. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking – a little extra chili powder for those who prefer things spicier.
The Quinoa: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Quinoa, a complete protein, is packed with essential amino acids, fiber, and vitamins. It's incredibly versatile and serves as a fantastic base for countless dishes. In this recipe, the quinoa absorbs the vibrant flavors of the lime juice and cilantro, creating a flavorful and healthy foundation for the bowl.
The Shrimp: A Lean Protein Source
Shrimp is a lean protein source that’s quick to cook and adds a delightful savory element to the bowl. I prefer to use large shrimp for this recipe, but you can adjust the size based on your preference. The simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and cumin enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
The Mango Salsa: A Tropical Twist
The mango salsa brings a refreshing tropical twist to the bowl. The combination of diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and chili powder creates a vibrant and flavorful topping that adds a delightful burst of sweetness and spice. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the savory shrimp and the creamy avocado crema.
The Avocado Crema: Creamy Perfection
The avocado crema adds a luxurious creaminess to the bowl. Made with ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, and lime juice, it’s a simple yet decadent addition that complements the other flavors beautifully. It’s also a great source of healthy fats.
More Than Just a Meal: A Lifestyle
This Cilantro Lime Shrimp Quinoa Bowl isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of healthy eating and mindful cooking. It’s a dish that nourishes both body and soul, a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without sacrificing nutrition or time. It’s a dish that has become a symbol of balance in my busy life – a delicious reminder that even in the midst of chaos, taking care of myself and my family is possible. So go ahead, try this recipe, and experience the magic for yourself. You might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Tips and Variations:
- Meal Prep: Prepare the quinoa, mango salsa, and avocado crema ahead of time to save time during the week.
- Customize your protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Add more veggies: Include bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
Enjoy!
