Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing -

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal, the Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing is an excellent choice. This dish is not only vibrant and flavorful, but also comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The combination of grilled shrimp seasoned with oregano and the zesty lemon-oregano dressing is both refreshing and satisfying. Pair it with your favorite grains and fresh vegetables, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl is a highlight for several reasons. First, it boasts a bright and zesty flavor profile thanks to fresh ingredients like lemon, oregano, and garlic. Second, it’s packed with protein from the shrimp and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a nutritious choice. Additionally, the customizable base of quinoa or rice allows for versatility, enabling you to adapt the recipe according to your preferences. Finally, it comes together in just 21 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick lunch or dinner without sacrificing flavor.

Pro Tips for Making the Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing

To maximize the flavor and presentation of your Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl, consider the following tips:

Quality of Shrimp: Opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp if possible, as they often have better flavor than frozen counterparts.
Marinating Time: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the wonderful flavors from the olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
Grilling Technique: Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high before cooking the shrimp. This helps achieve a nice char without overcooking the shrimp.
Meal Prep Friendly: This bowl can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Garnishes: Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnishing to enhance flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients you will need to create your Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon-Oregano Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Bowl:

1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup Kalamata olives
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 15 minutes. This allows the shrimp to absorb all the flavors.

Step 2: While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the lemon-oregano dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside. This dressing will add a refreshing zing to your shrimp bowl.

Step 3: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Step 4: In individual serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa or rice as the base. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. This combination of fresh vegetables and healthy grains creates a colorful and nutritious base.

Step 5: Once the shrimp is grilled, place it on top of the layered ingredients in each bowl. Drizzle generously with the prepared lemon-oregano dressing. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to garnish and enhance the visual appeal of your dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure you thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to achieve the best flavor.

How long does this recipe take to prepare?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 21 minutes, including marinating time, grilling, and assembling the bowl.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

If you prefer, you can substitute quinoa with rice, couscous, or even a bed of leafy greens for a low-carb option.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to three days for fresh assembly later.

How spicy is this dish?

This Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to the marinade or as a topping if you prefer some heat.

Conclusion

The Grilled Greek Shrimp Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. This vibrant and healthy meal is full of Mediterranean flavors that transport your palate. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, it’s a satisfying option for any meal of the day. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.