A Taste of the Mediterranean: Your New Favorite Dinner
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl
This Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl is a fantastic meal. It is quick to prepare, healthy, and full of flavor. You will enjoy the fresh ingredients and vibrant taste. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Diving into Deliciousness: What You’ll Need
Fresh Ingredients for Your Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl
- Shrimp: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber: 1/2 cup, diced
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Fresh Mint: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Lemon: 1, juiced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Feta Cheese: 1/4 cup, crumbled (optional)
Pantry Staples
- Couscous: 1 cup, uncooked (preferably whole wheat)
- Vegetable Broth or Water: 1.5 cups
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
Crafting Your Culinary Masterpiece: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Couscous
Boil 1.5 cups of vegetable broth or water in a pot. Add a pinch of salt. Stir in 1 cup of couscous. Remove the pot from heat. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Sautéing the Shrimp to Perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Assembling Your Vibrant Mediterranean Bowl
In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh mint. Add the cooked shrimp. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to combine. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
Notes and Pro-Tips
For extra flavor, toast the couscous lightly in a dry pan before adding the liquid. Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly.
Elevate Your Experience: Serving Suggestions and Variations
Perfect Pairings for Your Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl
Serve this bowl warm or at room temperature. It goes well with a side of warm pita bread or a simple green salad.
Creative Variations to Explore
- Add other vegetables: Include bell peppers, Kalamata olives, or chickpeas for more texture and nutrients.
- Different grains: Use quinoa or Israeli couscous instead of traditional couscous.
- Herb variations: Experiment with dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Protein change: Substitute with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a different protein option.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
Tips for Success: Making it Your Own
Taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
FAQs About Your Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl
Can I make this Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the couscous and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the shrimp just before serving for the best results.
What kind of shrimp is best for a Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl?
Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp work well. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
How can I make my Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl spicier?
To make it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the finished bowl.
Is this Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep. Prepare all components and store them in separate containers. When ready to eat, combine and enjoy. It tastes great cold or slightly warmed.
Embrace the Flavor: Your Mediterranean Journey Awaits
Classic Shrimp and Couscous Mediterranean Bowl
Equipment
- Pot
- Skillet
- Large Bowl
- Fork
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
- 1 lemon juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
- 1 cup couscous uncooked (preferably whole wheat)
- 1.5 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Bring vegetable broth or water to a boil with a pinch of salt, then stir in couscous. Remove from heat, cover for 5 minutes, and fluff with a fork.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté minced garlic briefly, then add shrimp, salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Add the cooked shrimp to the couscous and vegetable mixture.
- Drizzle the mixture with remaining olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
- Gently toss all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
- Optionally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.