Mediterranean Lemon Shrimp Couscous Bowl
The Mediterranean Lemon Shrimp Couscous Bowl is a light, vibrant, and healthy meal inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. Juicy shrimp are sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice, then served over fluffy couscous and topped with crisp vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Creamy feta cheese and fresh herbs add a burst of flavor, while a simple lemon dressing ties everything together.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of ½ lemon
For the Couscous
1 cup couscous
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the Bowl Toppings
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup chickpeas (optional)
¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon Dressing
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp honey
Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Couscous
1. Bring 1 cup broth or water to a boil.
2. Add couscous, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
3. Fluff with a fork.
2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
5. Add lemon juice and lemon zest and toss.
3️⃣ Prepare Vegetables
While shrimp cook, chop cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
4️⃣ Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5️⃣ Assemble the Bowl
1. Add couscous as the base.
2. Top with lemon shrimp.
3. Add tomatoes, cucumber, onion, chickpeas, and olives.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and parsley on top.
5. Drizzle with lemon dressing.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water for about 10–15 minutes before cooking.
2. What can I use instead of couscous?
You can substitute quinoa, rice, bulgur, or cauliflower rice.
3. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes. It’s in lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it a balanced Mediterranean meal.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Simply omit the feta cheese.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g