Brown Rice Shrimp Bowl with Tomatoes and Avocado: A Nutritious Delight

Incorporating wholesome ingredients into your meals doesn't have to be a chore. Our brown rice shrimp bowl with tomatoes and avocado is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines fresh flavors with ease of preparation. Follow our comprehensive guide to create this delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients for Brown Rice Shrimp Bowl

To prepare this delightful bowl, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing)
• Optional: lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cooking the Brown Rice

Start by rinsing the brown rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Preparing the Shrimp

While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assembling the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and finely chopped red onion. Gently mix to combine.

4. Adding the Shrimp and Dressing

Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl. Drizzle with the juice of one lime and an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.

5. Garnishing and Serving

Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the top of the bowl. Serve immediately with optional lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Brown Rice Shrimp Bowl

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

Select fresh, ripe tomatoes and avocados to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Fresh shrimp is also recommended for the best taste.

Cooking Shrimp Perfectly

Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be just pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.

Balancing Flavors

Adjust the lime juice and seasoning to your taste. The combination of lime, cumin, and smoked paprika gives the dish a zesty and slightly smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp bowl can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a light green salad. It also works well as a meal prep option, with components stored separately and combined just before eating.

Nutritional Information

Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on four servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 2g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion

Our brown rice shrimp bowl with tomatoes and avocado is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and flavorful. With a straightforward preparation process and a beautiful presentation, this dish is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Follow our detailed guide to enjoy a meal that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, all in one delicious bowl. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors and the ease of making this nutritious delight.