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In the world of healthy eating, few dishes strike the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity quite like a Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Quinoa Bowl. This vibrant dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. With its combination of succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, fresh vegetables, and protein-rich quinoa, this recipe embodies the essence of wholesome cooking. In this article, you will discover how to prepare this delicious meal step-by-step, along with insights into the health benefits of its key ingredients.

Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl

Discover the delightful Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Quinoa Bowl, a dish that beautifully combines flavor and nutrition. This vibrant meal features succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and fresh vegetables all on a bed of protein-rich quinoa. Learn to prepare this healthy recipe step-by-step while exploring the benefits of its key ingredients. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it's a quick, satisfying option that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the fresh flavors while nourishing your body!

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Optional: ¼ avocado, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, lower the heat to simmer, cover the saucepan, and let it cook for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Afterward, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.

    Prepare the Shrimp: While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, without allowing it to brown.

      Sauté the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season them with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on one side, then turn the shrimp over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are fully cooked, turning pink and opaque.

        Incorporate Lemon & Vegetables: Once the shrimp are cooked through, stir in the freshly grated lemon zest, lemon juice, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, by which time the spinach will have wilted and the tomatoes will have softened slightly.

          Combine the Bowls: In a large serving bowl, add the fluff quinoa as a base. Top it with the lemon garlic shrimp mixture. Gently toss everything together to combine and ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

            Garnish and Serve: Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top. If you choose, add slices of avocado for an added layer of creaminess. Serve warm for a delightful meal!

              Prep Time:

                10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips:

                    Consider serving the quinoa bowl in individual bowls, highlighting the vibrant colors of the shrimp, spinach, and tomatoes. For an extra pop, you might drizzle a little olive oil on top before garnishing with parsley and avocado slices. Enjoy your meal!