Jerk Style Shrimp Rice Bowls: A Quick and Flavorful 30-Minute Meal
If you're looking for a simple, flavorful meal that's quick to prepare, then these Jerk Style Shrimp Rice Bowls are just what you need! Packed with nutrients, color, and bold flavors, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. The best part? You can easily make this dish with a few time-saving kitchen tricks, such as microwavable grain pouches, frozen shrimp, and pre-made spice blends. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this meal both easy and nutritious!
Why Rice is Essential in Your Meal
Rice is often misunderstood as a food to avoid, especially when it comes to carbs. However, rice, particularly whole grain varieties like brown rice or quinoa, is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for providing our bodies with steady energy. Carbs are our body’s primary energy source, fueling everything from brain function to physical activity.
To make things even easier, you can skip the cooking time by using microwavable grain pouches such as rice or quinoa. These are pre-cooked, which means all you have to do is heat them up, saving you time and effort. Alternatively, you can use a rice cooker or Instant Pot to cook your rice, streamlining the process further.
Frozen Shrimp for Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness
For a quick and easy protein option, frozen shrimp is a game-changer. I love using Great Catch frozen shrimp, which are pre-veined, still in the shell, and easy to thaw. Not only are they a more cost-effective option than buying fresh shrimp, but they’re also incredibly convenient. Just grab a bag from the freezer, thaw them in warm water, and they’re ready to cook in minutes. Plus, shrimp is a lean protein source that’s high in essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal.
Pre-Made Spice Blends Make Cooking a Breeze
When it comes to creating delicious, flavorful meals, spice blends are a lifesaver. Whether you choose to make your own jerk seasoning in bulk or purchase pre-made blends like Primal Palate’s Jerk Seasoning, using a spice blend cuts down on preparation time and ensures you get the perfect balance of flavor every time. Jerk seasoning typically includes ingredients like allspice, thyme, garlic, and cayenne, giving your shrimp an irresistible kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the mango salsa.
Making your own spice blends in bulk is a great way to prep ahead for future meals. If you prefer convenience, buying a pre-made spice blend ensures consistency and quality without any extra effort.
Jerk Seasoned Shrimp Rice Bowls
These Jerk Style Shrimp Rice Bowls are a quick and flavorful dinner option, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Made with frozen shrimp, microwavable grains, and frozen mango, this recipe saves time without sacrificing taste or nutrition. The bold jerk seasoning pairs beautifully with a vibrant mango salsa, adding a balance of spice, sweetness, and fiber. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy dish is packed with energy-boosting carbs, lean protein, and colorful produce to keep you fueled and satisfied
Ingredients
- 16 ounces of frozen shrimp [I recommend de-veined, shell on, easy peel such as Great Catch at HEB]
- 2 tablespoons of Jerk style seasoning [I love using Primal Palate Spices]
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil [olive oil, canola oil, avocado oil]
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 batch of Mango Salsa Recipe (See HERE)
- Optional Garnish: Minced fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Safely thaw and peel frozen shrimp
- Place a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add in oil to pan and let oil heat for about 1 minute.
- Add in shrimp to pan and sprinkle on the Jerk style seasoning. Let cook for about 3 minutes before flipping onto other side and cook for another 3 minutes or until shrimp is fully cooked.
- Remove pan from heat.
- Divide cooked rice into 4 bowls. Divide shrimp into the 4 bowl (about 4 ounces per bowl). Add mango salsa to each bowl. Garnish with minced cilantro. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Try pre cooked grains such as shelf stable pouches or frozen grain bags. If you do not want white rice try brown rice, quinoa, barley, farro, or a grain blend.
- If you are not a fan of shrimp, easily substitute for another protein such as chicken, white fish, or beans.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
323Fat
5 gSat. Fat
1 gCarbs
43 gFiber
2 gNet carbs
41 gSugar
7 gProtein
27 gSodium
138 mgCholesterol
183 mgThe nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using online tools and is for informational purposes only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It’s not only perfect for a quick 30-minute dinner but also ideal for meal prepping. Simply make extra servings, and you’ll have a healthy, ready-to-go lunch or dinner for the rest of the week. If you're tight on time, you can prep the shrimp, rice, and salsa separately and store them in containers for an easy grab-and-go meal. It’s a great way to ensure you always have something delicious and nutritious on hand during the busy workweek.
A Nutritious, Flavorful, and Quick Meal
In summary, these Jerk Style Shrimp Rice Bowls are a perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Using frozen shrimp, microwavable grains, and frozen mango takes the stress out of cooking, while the mango salsa adds color and fiber. Plus, with rice providing essential carbohydrates for energy, you’re fueling your body with the nutrients it needs for the day. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner in under 30 minutes, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Jerk Seasoned Shrimp Rice Bowls
Ingredients
- 16 ounces of frozen shrimp [I recommend de-veined, shell on, easy peel such as Great Catch at HEB]
- 2 tablespoons of Jerk style seasoning [I love using Primal Palate Spices]
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil [olive oil, canola oil, avocado oil]
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 batch of Mango Salsa Recipe (See HERE)
- Optional Garnish: Minced fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Safely thaw and peel frozen shrimp
- Place a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add in oil to pan and let oil heat for about 1 minute.
- Add in shrimp to pan and sprinkle on the Jerk style seasoning. Let cook for about 3 minutes before flipping onto other side and cook for another 3 minutes or until shrimp is fully cooked.
- Remove pan from heat.
- Divide cooked rice into 4 bowls. Divide shrimp into the 4 bowl (about 4 ounces per bowl). Add mango salsa to each bowl. Garnish with minced cilantro. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Try pre cooked grains such as shelf stable pouches or frozen grain bags. If you do not want white rice try brown rice, quinoa, barley, farro, or a grain blend.
- If you are not a fan of shrimp, easily substitute for another protein such as chicken, white fish, or beans.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
323Fat
5 gSat. Fat
1 gCarbs
43 gFiber
2 gNet carbs
41 gSugar
7 gProtein
27 gSodium
138 mgCholesterol
183 mgThe nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using online tools and is for informational purposes only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
