Name: Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (sweet or hot); 1 tablespoon sweet paprika; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional); 1 pound shell-on shrimp (21 to 25 count, thawed if frozen); 1/4 cup neutral oil (I used avocado oil); high heat oil (such as canola or grapeseed for brushing grill grates); 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 3/4 cup neutral flavored oil (I used avocado oil); 1 clove garlic (peeled); 1 cup cilantro leaves and stems (packed); 1 jalapeño (stem removed); salt (to taste); 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained and rinsed); 2 teaspoons neutral oil (such as canola or avocado); 1 15-ounce can corn (drained and rinsed); 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (halved); 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups shredded romaine; 1 medium ripe avocado (thinly sliced or cut into chunks); 4 radishes (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeño (to serve); 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro (to serve); lime wedges (to serve); salt and pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Why Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowls are Perfect for Busy Young Professionals

Are you a busy young professional juggling work, social life, and everything in between? If so, I have a mouthwatering solution that combines convenience with flavor: the grilled shrimp taco bowl. These bowls are not just about ease; they're a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and zesty flavors that you can whip up in no time.

One of the best aspects of the grilled shrimp taco bowl is that it comes together quickly. With a prep time of just 40 minutes and only 5 minutes on the grill, you can enjoy a delectable meal that feels like a treat. Imagine biting into perfectly grilled shrimp, layered over a bed of seasoned rice, plump black beans, and vibrant veggies.

Plus, the customizable nature of these bowls means you can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you're craving. Want to swap out the toppings? Go for it! This recipe encourages creativity, making it perfect for experimenting after a hectic day at the office.

Get ready to impress your taste buds and feel satisfied without the fuss—let’s dive into the recipe! For more ideas about quick and healthy dinners, check out Simply Recipes' healthy dinner recipes.

Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

For the Grilled Shrimp

To create the star of your grilled shrimp taco bowl, gather these essential ingredients:

1 tablespoon smoked paprika (sweet or hot, based on your heat preference)
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon chipotle powder (optional for extra spice)
1 pound shell-on shrimp (21 to 25 count), peeled and deveined
¼ cup neutral oil (like avocado oil)
High heat oil for brushing grill grates (canola or grapeseed work well)

For the Spicy Cilantro Dressing

This dressing adds a zesty flair to your bowl, made from:

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¾ cup neutral flavored oil (again, avocado oil is a great choice)
1 clove garlic, peeled
1 cup cilantro leaves and stems, packed
1 jalapeño, stem removed
Salt, to taste

For the Bowls

Fill your taco bowls with these colorful ingredients:

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 teaspoons neutral oil (canola or avocado)
1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained and rinsed
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups shredded romaine
1 medium ripe avocado, sliced
4 radishes, thinly sliced

To Serve

Bring everything together with these finishing touches:

2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeño
¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
Lime wedges
Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients create a vibrant and nourishing grilled shrimp taco bowl that's perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner! Enjoy the fresh flavors and healthy goodness. Check out this guide on how to peel and devein shrimp for a quick tutorial!

Preparing the Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Marinate the Shrimp

The first step in creating your delicious grilled shrimp taco bowl is to marinate the shrimp. This adds flavor and enhances the overall taste. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, sweet paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt, and the optional chipotle powder for some kick. In a larger bowl, toss one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with ¼ cup of neutral oil. Add the spice mix and stir until every shrimp is coated. Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or even overnight if you have the time—this really boosts that flavor!

Prep the Grill

While the shrimp are marinating, it’s time to prep your grill. Whether you're using a gas or charcoal grill, preheat it to high heat (around 500°F). This will ensure that you get those beautiful grill marks and a nice char on your shrimp. If you’re using an oven-safe thermometer, it’s a handy way to check the heat, but an excellent grill master knows what that smoky smell means!

Create the Spicy Cilantro Dressing

Next, make your spicy cilantro dressing, which adds a refreshing twist to your taco bowl. In a blender or mini chopper, combine fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, neutral oil, garlic, cilantro leaves and stems, and a jalapeño. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you want to prep ahead, this dressing can be made a couple of days in advance and stored in the fridge. Do not forget to taste and adjust the salt as needed!

Season the Black Beans

In a small bowl, season your canned black beans—just drain and rinse them first. Toss them with a bit of oil and salt, pepper to taste. This small step elevates the flavor and makes sure everything comes together wonderfully in your grilled shrimp taco bowl.

Grill the Shrimp

Once your grill is prepped, it's time to grill those shrimp! Thread your marinated shrimp onto two metal skewers—this makes it easier to flip them later. Oil your grill grates with a folded paper towel dipped in high heat oil. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3 minutes on each side or until they turn opaque. A pro tip: they’ll continue to cook a bit after being removed, so keep an eye on them!

Assemble the Taco Bowls

Now comes the fun part! In four bowls, divide your cooked rice, then layer on your seasoned black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, romaine, and avocado. Top each bowl with the star of the show—your beautifully grilled shrimp! Serve with lime wedges, chopped jalapeños, and cilantro on the side for that extra zing.

Enjoy diving into your colorful and flavorful grilled shrimp taco bowl! This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at the weekend barbecue. Don’t forget to savor every bite!

Variations on the Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Vegetarian Taco Bowl Option

If you’re looking for a meat-free twist on the classic grilled shrimp taco bowl, try substituting the shrimp with grilled veggies or tempeh. The smoky paprika and spices will still bring that robust flavor you crave. Toss in some black beans, corn, and a generous amount of guacamole for added richness. Consider adding grilled mushrooms and bell peppers for a delightful texture and taste. It’s a fantastic way to cater to vegetarian friends or simply enjoy a lighter meal!

Spicy Shrimp Taco Bowl

For those who like to kick things up a notch, make your grilled shrimp taco bowl spicy! Before grilling, marinate your shrimp in a mix of jalapeños and chipotle powder to amp up the heat. You can also whip up a zesty habanero salsa or add diced serrano peppers into your dressing for an extra layer of spice. Don’t forget to serve with a side of lime wedges and fresh cilantro to balance the heat—your taste buds will thank you!

Explore more ideas on how to customize your taco bowl on Simply Recipes!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Choosing the Right Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for your grilled shrimp taco bowl, go for wild-caught if possible; they usually offer better flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and translucent, avoiding any that smell overly fishy. A great size to consider is 21 to 25 count, as they’re perfect for skewering and grilling evenly. You can learn how to easily peel and devein shrimp here.

Tips for Grilling Perfectly

For that unforgettable char, preheat your grill to at least 500°F. This ensures a quick sear that locks in moisture. Use two skewers for each batch of shrimp to simplify flipping them and preventing any from falling through the grill slats. Remember, shrimp cook very quickly—about 3 to 4 minutes on each side—so keep an eye on them! For additional flavor, consider trying a quick marinade or brushing them with a bit of oil before grilling.

Incorporating these tips will elevate your taco bowl, making every bite a delight!

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Creative Bowl Combinations

Elevate your grilled shrimp taco bowl by mixing and matching flavors. Consider adding crunchy toppings like pickled red onions or creamy cheese such as cotija. Want more heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce. For a sweet twist, mango salsa is a bright addition that pairs perfectly with shrimp. Don't hesitate to experiment with different bases—quinoa or farro can replace rice for a delicious twist.

Pairing with Refreshing Drinks

To complement your grilled shrimp taco bowl, think about refreshing drink options. A zesty limeade or a homemade fruit-infused sparkling water can enhance the meal's bright flavors. If you prefer something more robust, try a chilled cucumber-mint tea. These drinks will keep you cool while you savor the smoky shrimp and fresh veggies, making for the perfect outdoor dining experience!

Time Breakdown for Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Preparation Time

The prep time for this grilled shrimp taco bowl is approximately 40 minutes. This includes marinating the shrimp and preparing your ingredients for the bowls. If you choose to make the dressing in advance, you'll save even more time later!

Cooking Time

Get ready for a quick and delicious cook time of only 5 minutes! Once your grill is hot, cooking the shrimp goes by quickly, so you'll have a meal ready for enjoying in no time.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick weekend meal with friends. It’s a delightful option for anyone looking to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Feel free to check out our article on how to peel and devein shrimp for tips that will help speed up your prep!

Nutritional Facts for Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Calories

Each serving of this delicious grilled shrimp taco bowl packs in about 969 calories, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

Protein

You can expect to get approximately 18g of protein per serving, thanks to the shrimp and black beans, offering a great source of lean protein to fuel your day.

Carbs

With around 81g of carbs per serving, this vibrant bowl is brimming with nutritious options like rice, beans, and corn, providing energy and fiber to keep you feeling full longer.

For more healthy meal ideas, check out this guide to healthy dinners or explore easy shrimp recipes for a versatile ingredient that you'll love!

FAQs about Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?

Absolutely! If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for other proteins. Grilled chicken, seasoned beef, or even tofu make fantastic alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times slightly according to the protein you choose to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing your grilled shrimp taco bowl is simple! Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat the shrimp on the stove or in the microwave to ensure they don’t dry out. You can keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its freshness.

What other toppings can I add?

The possibilities are endless with a grilled shrimp taco bowl! Consider adding ingredients like:

Crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a creamy touch
Sliced bell peppers for crunch
A drizzle of hot sauce for some extra heat
Pickled onions for a tangy flavor burst

Feel free to get creative and customize your bowl to your taste!

Conclusion on Grilled Shrimp Taco Bowl

In summary, the grilled shrimp taco bowl offers a vibrant, flavorful meal that's as fun to make as it is to eat. You'll savor the perfectly cooked shrimp, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings—your taste buds will thank you!