Looking for a refreshing and protein-packed dish? This cilantro lime quinoa with shrimp is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s vibrant, zesty, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Picture this: fluffy quinoa tossed with perfectly cooked shrimp, bright cilantro, and a splash of zesty lime juice. This dish not only looks stunning but also bursts with flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser. If you’re a fan of seafood and healthy grains, you’ll definitely want to add this recipe to your repertoire.
A Colorful Presentation
The vibrant bowl of cilantro lime quinoa with shrimp is a feast for the eyes.
With fluffy quinoa grains forming a soft base, this dish is beautifully accented by the juicy, pink shrimp that sit atop.
Fresh cilantro adds a burst of green, while golden lime wedges introduce a zesty pop.
This dish is not only inviting but also showcases a lovely mix of colors that can brighten any dining table.
Simple Yet Flavorful Ingredients
At the heart of this recipe is the combination of nutty quinoa and succulent shrimp.
The quinoa provides a wholesome base that is both filling and nutritious.
Juicy shrimp cooked to perfection bring a delightful seafood flavor, while the cilantro and lime juice elevate the taste profile significantly.
These ingredients come together in a way that enhances each other, creating a dish that is refreshing and satisfying.
Effortless Preparation
Making cilantro lime quinoa with shrimp is straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Starting with rinsed quinoa cooked in broth ensures a flavorful base.
The shrimp sautéed with garlic infuses the dish with a lovely aroma and taste.
Once everything is combined, it’s just a matter of serving it up and enjoying the delightful flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only vibrant and delicious but also packed with nutrients.
With approximately 350 calories per serving, it offers a healthy balance of protein and carbohydrates.
The shrimp alone provides a significant protein boost, while quinoa adds essential vitamins and minerals.
The addition of fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime ensures you’re not just savoring good flavors but also nourishing your body.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this dish with sliced avocado, adding creaminess that complements the other flavors.
The rustic table setting, complete with a fork and lime slice, adds a casual yet appealing touch.
Whether enjoyed as a main dish or part of a larger spread, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this cilantro lime quinoa with shrimp fits the bill.
Its bright colors and bold flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
With its ease of preparation and nutritious profile, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion, bringing joy and satisfaction to those who share it.
Healthy Cilantro Lime Quinoa with Shrimp Recipe
This quinoa with shrimp dish is light yet filling, featuring nutty quinoa combined with succulent shrimp, fresh cilantro, and a tangy lime dressing. The result is a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making every bite enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: avocado slices for serving
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium pot, combine quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Mix Ingredients: Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to the skillet with shrimp. Add lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Serve: Divide the quinoa and shrimp mixture into bowls. Optionally, top with avocado slices and garnish with additional cilantro.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g