Zesty Lime‑Cilantro Shrimp & Chickpea Power Bowl

Turn a busy weeknight into a protein‑packed feast with our Lime‑Cilantro Shrimp & Chickpea Power Bowl. This bright, zesty recipe blends succulent shrimp, hearty chickpeas, and fresh greens under a tangy lime‑cilantro vinaigrette. Served over fluffy quinoa, it's a quick, satisfying meal that packs flavor and nutrition in a snap.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped red cabbage
• 1/4 cup sliced radishes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp sliced scallions
• 1 lime (juice and zest)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium‑heat, swirl 1 tbsp olive oil and cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2‑3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, combine lime juice, lime zest, rice vinegar, honey, cumin, paprika, remaining 1 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the dressing.
3. Add chickpeas, spinach, cucumber, red cabbage, radishes, cilantro, and scallions to the bowl, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Toast cooked quinoa in a dry pan for 2 minutes, then spread it as the base in each serving bowl.
5. Top the quinoa with the chickpea–green mixture, then arrange the shrimp on top.
6. Drizzle the lime‑cilantro dressing over the entire bowl.
7. Garnish with extra cilantro, scallions, and a wedge of lime. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
8. If storing, keep dressing separate and pour over just before eating to keep greens crisp.

Chef's Note

Use firm, fresh shrimp for a better texture; toss chickpeas and greens quickly to preserve their bright colors and crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

The quinoa, chickpeas‑green mix, and shrimp can be prepped and stored separately for up to 24 hrs. Store dressing in a sealed bottle; combine freshly when ready to serve.

Substitutions

Replace shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.,Use lentils or black beans instead of chickpeas for a different protein profile.,Swap quinoa for brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice if desired.,Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.