Garlic Lime Shrimp Meal Prep Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Lime Shrimp Meal Prep is a vibrant, healthy dish perfect for busy weeks. Featuring juicy shrimp marinated in zesty lime and garlic, paired with wholesome quinoa and sautéed veggies, it’s both tasty and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off, based on preference)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 4 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (approximately 2 large limes)
• 1 tsp Lime Zest
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 1/2 tsp Sea Salt & Black Pepper, to taste
• 2 cups Cooked Quinoa or Brown Rice
• 2 cups Sautéed Zucchini and Bell Peppers
• Fresh Cilantro and Lime Wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large glass bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Avoid marinating longer to prevent the lime from beginning to “cook” the shrimp.
2. Step 2: While the shrimp marinates, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced zucchini and bell peppers, sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove vegetables and set aside.
3. Step 3: Using the same skillet, arrange the shrimp in a single layer without crowding the pan. Sear for 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and pink. Remove immediately once they curl into a “C” shape to avoid toughness.
4. Step 4: Evenly divide cooked quinoa or brown rice among four airtight meal prep containers. Top with sautéed vegetables and the garlic lime shrimp.
5. Step 5: Garnish each container with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge for an extra fresh spritz before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped fresh chili or a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade.
• Swap quinoa or brown rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Use frozen shrimp for convenience, just be sure to thaw and pat dry before marinating.
• Include other vegetables like snap peas or asparagus to vary your meal throughout the week.

Storage

Store the meal prep containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat shrimp and vegetables gently in a microwave or skillet to avoid overcooking. Add fresh lime juice after reheating for brightness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry so the marinade adheres properly and they cook evenly.

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat until they curl into a “C” shape and turn opaque. Removing them immediately helps avoid overcooking, which makes them tough.

Garlic Lime Shrimp Meal Prep Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 105 reviews

This Garlic Lime Shrimp Meal Prep is a vibrant, protein-packed dish perfect for a healthy week ahead. The succulent jumbo shrimp is marinated in a zesty blend of fresh garlic, lime juice, and spices, then seared to perfection for a tender, flavorful bite. Served over nutrient-rich quinoa or brown rice alongside sautéed zucchini and bell peppers, this meal balances energy-boosting carbs and fiber with heart-healthy fats and bold flavors. Easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go lunches or dinners, this dish offers a refreshing twist on shrimp with a citrusy, slightly spicy kick.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Meal Prep, Main Dish, Seafood
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American with a Latin twist
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

The Protein Base

• 1.5 lbs Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off, based on preference)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The Zesty Marinade

• 4 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (about 2 large limes)
• 1 tsp Lime Zest
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 1/2 tsp Sea Salt & Black Pepper, to taste

The Fiber & Carb Foundation

• 2 cups Cooked Quinoa or Brown Rice
• 2 cups Sautéed Zucchini and Bell Peppers (sliced)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a large glass bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, tossing to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 15 to 30 minutes in the refrigerator, but no longer to prevent the acidity from altering the shrimp’s texture.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the shrimp marinates, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced zucchini and bell peppers, sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sear the Shrimp: In the same skillet, place shrimp in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and pinkish, curling into a “C” shape. Avoid overcooking to prevent a rubbery texture, then remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Containers: Divide cooked quinoa or brown rice evenly among four airtight meal prep containers. Top each portion with the sautéed vegetables and garlic lime shrimp.
5. Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top and an optional lime wedge for squeezing just before eating to enhance freshness.

Notes

• Marinate shrimp no longer than 30 minutes to avoid it being ‘cooked’ by the lime juice.
• Use fresh garlic instead of jarred for the best flavor and health benefits.
• Choose brown rice or quinoa based on your preference for carbs and fiber.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing shrimp to ensure even cooking.
• This meal prep keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Garlic Lime Shrimp, Meal Prep, Shrimp Recipe, Healthy Meal, Quick Dinner, Quinoa Bowl, Brown Rice Meal, Sautéed Vegetables, Low Fat Seafood