Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice

Name: Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 lemon, juiced; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Table

I absolutely love making Mediterranean shrimp and rice because it brings a burst of flavor and freshness to my dinner table. The combination of juicy shrimp, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice creates a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. We often enjoy this recipe on weeknights since it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry! You won’t regret giving it a try.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T05:03:28.187Z

One of the reasons I cherish this Mediterranean shrimp and rice recipe is the incredible depth of flavor it brings to the table. After trying various spice combinations and cooking techniques, I found that sautéing the shrimp with garlic, paprika, and a hint of lemon zest creates a delicious base that infuses the rice with a satisfying richness. The key is to not overcook the shrimp—when cooked just right, they remain tender and succulent.

While testing this dish, I also discovered that using a quality broth instead of water for cooking the rice enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully. I typically opt for a low-sodium vegetable broth, allowing me to control the seasoning later. Adding in some colorful bell peppers and fresh herbs not only makes it visually appealing but elevates the taste to a whole new level!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that burst in every bite
Quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with seasonal vegetables and spices

Cooking the Shrimp to Perfection

When cooking shrimp, timing is crucial. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so it's important to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes on medium heat. Keep an eye on them, and as soon as they reach that perfect shade, remove them from the heat to maintain their tenderness.

Additionally, the shrimp's natural sweetness is enhanced by the balance of spices in this recipe. Using smoked paprika adds depth, while the brightness from fresh lemon juice enhances the overall flavor profile. Experimenting with the amount of these seasonings can allow you to adjust the dish to your personal taste.

Flavor Boosting with Vegetables

In this recipe, the bell pepper and onion not only provide sweetness but also contribute to the overall texture of the dish. Sautéing them until they're soft—approximately 5 minutes—allows their flavors to develop fully. The garlic should be added last to avoid burning, which can create a bitter taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow onions instead of robust red or sweet onions.

Feel free to customize the vegetable medley based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes could beautifully complement the shrimp by adding their own unique flavors and textures to the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Mediterranean shrimp and rice:

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 lemon, juiced
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Mediterranean shrimp and rice:

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the jasmine rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet along with the paprika, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Toss everything together until well-combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking. This dish goes wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for a gathering, most components can be prepared in advance. Cook the rice and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Store these in airtight containers; the rice can be refrigerated for up to four days. When it's time to serve, simply reheat the rice in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth to bring back its fluffiness.

For the shrimp, you can marinate them in the spices and lemon juice a few hours before cooking. This not only amplifies the flavors but also saves you time when you're ready to assemble the meal.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of Mediterranean shrimp and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the combined dish in a skillet over low heat. Add a little vegetable broth if the rice seems dry to keep it from becoming too firm. Cooking it this way helps to retain the moisture without compromising the shrimp's texture.

If you want to freeze this dish, portion it out and store it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet, following the same method as with the refrigerated version.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes based on your preference and seasonal availability.

→ Can I substitute the jasmine rice?

Absolutely! You can use basmati or even brown rice, though cooking times may vary.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth is certified gluten-free.