🥗 Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Quinoa 🍤🌿🍅

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤

2 tbsp olive oil 🌿

3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄

Juice of 1 lemon 🍋

1/2 tsp smoked paprika 🌟

1/2 tsp dried oregano 🌿

Salt & pepper to taste 🧂

For the Quinoa:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed 🍚

2 cups water or chicken broth 💧

Pinch of salt 🧂

For the Toppings:

1 cup diced cucumber 🥒

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅

1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved 🫒

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced 🧅

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 🧀

1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped 🌿

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1/2 cup Greek yogurt 🥛

1/4 cup grated cucumber, squeezed to remove excess water 🥒

1 clove garlic, minced 🧄

1 tsp lemon juice 🍋

1 tsp olive oil 🌿

Salt & pepper to taste 🧂

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Cook the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add shrimp, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls. Top with garlic-lemon shrimp, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.

Add a dollop of tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.

5. Serve:

Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, tangy, and savory flavors of the Mediterranean!

Tips:

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a spicy kick.

Protein Options: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu.

Meal Prep: Store the ingredients separately for a quick assembly throughout the week.

This Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Quinoa is a light, flavorful, and protein-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s healthy, delicious, and full of Mediterranean goodness! 💛