Grilled Chimichurri Shrimp Bowls on wild whole grains with red pepper salad and arugula

These Chimichurri Shrimp Bowls are a fresh, vibrant meal that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. With marinated grilled shrimp, herby chimichurri sauce, a nutty whole grain base, and a zesty red pepper salad, this dish is perfect for warm-weather weeknights or healthy meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with bold flavor from homemade chimichurri

• Healthy and balanced, packed with protein, grains, and veggies

• Ideal for meal prep or easy dinners

• Customizable with your favorite grains or proteins

• Quick to cook once the shrimp is marinated

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh parsley

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro

• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano

• ⅓ cup good-quality oil

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, defrosted, peeled, and deveined

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Grain Base:

• 1 cup uncooked wild rice or whole grain mix

• 1¾ cups water (or according to package instructions)

For the Red Pepper Salad:

• 12–16 ounces jarred roasted red peppers, diced

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

To Assemble the Bowls:

• Fresh arugula, a handful per bowl

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Directions

1. Make the Chimichurri:
   In a food processor, blend all chimichurri ingredients until combined. Set aside.

2. Marinate the Shrimp:
   Place shrimp in a bowl, season lightly with salt and pepper, and toss with about ½ cup chimichurri. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 hour.

3. Cook the Grains:
   Rinse the grain mix under cold water. Cook using a rice cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot according to your preferred method.

4. Make the Red Pepper Salad:
   Combine chopped roasted peppers, basil, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Set aside.

5. Grill the Shrimp:
   Grill shrimp over high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.

6. Assemble the Bowls:
   In 4 bowls, layer fresh arugula, a portion of cooked grains, red pepper salad, and grilled shrimp. Drizzle with remaining chimichurri.

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Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Marinate Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

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Variations

• Use chicken, steak, or tofu instead of shrimp

• Swap grains for quinoa, farro, brown rice, or bulgur

• Add avocado, grilled zucchini, or pickled onions

• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the chimichurri

• Turn leftovers into shrimp tacos

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Storage/Reheating

• Store grains, shrimp, red pepper salad, and chimichurri separately in airtight containers.

• Grains and shrimp can be reheated in a pan or microwave.

• Chimichurri lasts up to 1 week refrigerated.

• Salad can be made 1–2 days in advance.

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FAQs

What size shrimp is best for grilling?

Use large or jumbo shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 per pound) for easy handling and juicy texture.

Can I use store-bought chimichurri?

Yes, but homemade chimichurri delivers fresher, brighter flavor.

How do I defrost shrimp quickly?

Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cool water, changing the water a few times. They’ll be ready in about 5 minutes.

What are the best grains for this bowl?

Wild rice, brown rice, farro, or quinoa all work great.

Can I cook the shrimp indoors?

Yes, use a hot skillet or grill pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store each component separately and assemble when ready to eat.

How long does chimichurri last in the fridge?

Up to 7 days in an airtight container.

Can I roast my own red peppers?

Yes. Roast them in the oven or over a flame until charred, then peel and dice.

What other herbs can I use in chimichurri?

Swap or mix parsley with cilantro, oregano, or even mint for a twist.

Is it okay to serve the shrimp cold?

Yes. Cold grilled shrimp make for a refreshing bowl, especially in warmer months.

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Conclusion

These Chimichurri Shrimp Bowls are a fresh, flavorful, and flexible meal you’ll return to again and again. With juicy grilled shrimp, zesty chimichurri, nutty grains, and vibrant veggies, they’re the perfect balance of healthy and delicious. Great for dinner, lunch, or meal prep, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.