This shrimp and veggie bowl is a nutritious and flavorful meal prep option that’s perfect for work lunches. Featuring juicy, spiced shrimp, roasted sweet potatoes, steamed asparagus, and lightly sautéed kale, this dish is balanced, delicious, and easy to prepare. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for meal prep.
- High-Protein & Nutrient-Dense – Shrimp provides lean protein, while veggies add fiber and essential nutrients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh and reheats well, making it an ideal work lunch.
- Balanced & Satisfying – A great combination of lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy greens.
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes
- 1 cup steamed asparagus
- 1 cup kale
Directions
-
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Dice sweet potatoes and toss with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
-
Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add shrimp, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
-
Prepare the Vegetables
- Steam asparagus for 3–5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Lightly sauté kale in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil until slightly wilted.
-
Assemble the Bowl
- Divide roasted sweet potatoes, shrimp, asparagus, and kale into meal prep containers.
-
Store & Serve
- Refrigerate until ready to eat. Reheat shrimp and sweet potatoes before serving, or enjoy cold.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 3–4 bowls
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning.
- Different Greens: Swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or arugula.
- Extra Flavor: Drizzle with lemon juice or a light vinaigrette before serving.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace sweet potatoes with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Protein Swap: Use grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu instead of shrimp.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave for 1–2 minutes, or enjoy cold as a fresh salad-style meal.
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp can become rubbery if reheated too long—warm just until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.
How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?
Cook just until pink and firm, about 3–4 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them tough.
Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep—just store everything in separate containers and reheat when needed.
What other vegetables can I add?
Try roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for extra variety.
Can I use a different seasoning for the shrimp?
Absolutely! Try a Cajun, lemon-garlic, or Mexican seasoning blend.
Is this meal good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s a balanced meal with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy carbs.
Can I eat this meal cold?
Yes! The shrimp and veggies taste great chilled, making it a great on-the-go lunch.
How can I add more flavor?
Drizzle with tahini dressing, balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
What’s the best way to cook the sweet potatoes faster?
Cut them into smaller pieces and air-fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
Can I freeze this meal?
Shrimp doesn’t freeze well after being cooked, but you can freeze the sweet potatoes and veggies separately.
Conclusion
This shrimp and veggie bowl is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal prep option that’s perfect for work lunches. With juicy shrimp, roasted sweet potatoes, and nutrient-rich greens, it’s a balanced and satisfying dish that’s easy to customize. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, this meal will keep you energized and full throughout the day. Try it today for a fresh and healthy work lunch!
