Cajun Shrimp Power Bowl

Name: Cajun Shrimp Power Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup corn, drained; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Meals Quick

I love whipping up this Cajun Shrimp Power Bowl for a quick and nutritious meal that bursts with flavor. The combination of spicy, seasoned shrimp with colorful veggies and hearty grains makes it a complete dish that keeps me satisfied. With just a few simple ingredients and spices, I can put this delightful power bowl together in no time. Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe never disappoints!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:34:19.964Z

When I first tried this Cajun Shrimp Power Bowl, I was amazed at how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The key is in the seasoning — a homemade blend of paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder really elevates the shrimp and brings the whole dish to life. Cooking the shrimp just until they turn pink keeps them juicy, and I love serving them over a bed of quinoa for added protein.

This dish is not just tasty; it's incredibly versatile. You can swap out the veggies based on what's in season or your personal preferences. I've experimented with roasted sweet potatoes and fresh spinach, and every variation has turned out fantastic. It's a great way to clean out the fridge while still enjoying a delicious meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold Cajun spices that pack a flavorful punch
Loaded with nutrient-rich vegetables for a balanced meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Perfect Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this Cajun Shrimp Power Bowl. Opt for large, fresh shrimp that are sustainably sourced and peeled for ease. If you find a mix of sizes, remember that smaller shrimp will cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Look for shrimp that have a slight sheen and a fresh ocean scent, avoiding any with a fishy smell.

When seasoning shrimp, remember that moderation is key. The bold Cajun seasoning not only adds heat but also depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or substitute with a mix of paprika and cumin for a different flavor profile. Ensure that the shrimp are well-coated for maximum flavor infusion during cooking.

Building Your Power Bowl

The base of your bowl, quinoa, is packed with protein and provides a wonderful nutty flavor. You can cook it with vegetable broth for added richness or even experiment with brown rice or farro for a different texture. For added creaminess, consider folding in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini with the quinoa, enhancing the dish's nutrition.

Assembling the bowl is where the creativity shines. Layer your ingredients thoughtfully to ensure each bite has a mix of flavors and textures. I like to place the juicy shrimp on top of the vibrant vegetables to let the juices mingle. For an extra touch, a drizzle of lime juice can elevate the flavor and add a refreshing zing.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup corn, drained
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to customize your power bowl!

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Bowl

In two bowls, start with a base of cooked quinoa. Top with the cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, corn, diced bell peppers, and avocado slices.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

This power bowl is perfect for meal prep and can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less Cajun seasoning. For a creamy finish, drizzle a bit of lime avocado dressing on top.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Cajun Shrimp Power Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can cook the shrimp and quinoa in advance and store them separately. Keep the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The quinoa can last even longer—up to a week. Just assemble your bowl fresh when ready to eat, to maintain the best texture.

For freezing, consider that cooked shrimp do well in the freezer but can lose some texture upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, I recommend freezing the seasoned but uncooked shrimp in portions. When you’re ready, simply thaw and cook, ensuring you get the best flavor and texture.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your power bowl based on what vegetables are in season. Try adding roasted sweet potatoes or zucchini for a different flavor and texture. If you want extra crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts atop the veggies for added contrast.

Vegetarian? Swap the shrimp for chickpeas or marinated grilled tofu. Both are fantastic at absorbing the Cajun spices, creating a flavorful dish that’s just as satisfying. You can also use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative, keeping the rest of the toppings plentiful and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work just as well! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice if you're looking for a low-carb option.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep the shrimp and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just assemble the bowls when you're ready to eat.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free quinoa and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, this bowl is safe for a gluten-free diet.