Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl with Tzatziki
This Mediterranean bowl features juicy lemon-garlic shrimp served over fluffy rice or quinoa, topped with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onion, olives, and creamy homemade tzatziki. It’s colorful, nourishing, and packed with bold, zesty flavors in every bite.
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time:~30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated & squeezed dry
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
Salt & pepper to taste
Bowl Base & Toppings:
2 cups cooked brown rice, white rice, or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Marinate & Cook Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well and marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Set aside.
2. Make the Tzatziki:
In a small bowl, combine yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill or mint, salt, and pepper.
Stir well. Chill in fridge until ready to serve.
3. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the rice or quinoa into 4 bowls.
Top each with cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta.
Spoon tzatziki generously over each bowl.
Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
Notes & Tips:
Want extra flavor? Add roasted red peppers or hummus.
Make it low-carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of grains.
Tzatziki can be made a day ahead — it tastes even better chilled.
This recipe is great for meal prep: Store components separately and assemble when ready.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.
Q: What grain works best for the base?
A: Rice, quinoa, or couscous are all great. You can even use farro or orzo for variety.
Q: How long does the tzatziki last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
A: Yes! Swap shrimp for grilled halloumi, chickpeas, or falafel.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 440
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Carbs: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g