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Healthy Shrimp Protein Pasta Meal Prep Bowl Recipe

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This Healthy Shrimp Protein Pasta Meal Prep Bowl is a delicious and balanced option for busy days. Packed with lean protein from shrimp, hearty whole-grain or protein pasta, and vibrant vegetables, this meal prep-friendly dish is nutritious, flavorful, and easy to customize.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Protein-Packed: Shrimp and protein pasta make this dish a filling and nutritious meal.
  • Meal-Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for a grab-and-go lunch or dinner.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
  • Customizable: Swap veggies or pasta types to fit your preferences.

Ingredients

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

  • Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Protein pasta or whole-grain pasta (e.g., chickpea, lentil, or quinoa-based)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic, minced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Baby spinach
  • Lemon juice
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, or fresh parsley for garnish.

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Spinach and Pasta:
    • Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, using reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
  5. Combine with Shrimp:
    • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls:
    • Divide the pasta and shrimp mixture into meal prep containers. Garnish with Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes 4 meal prep bowls
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
  • Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Spicy Option: Add a dash of sriracha or cayenne pepper for a kick.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free meal prep option.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the pasta and shrimp may lose their texture.
  • Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Protein pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or quinoa is a great choice for added protein. Whole-grain pasta also works well.

3. How can I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking makes them rubbery.

4. Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely! Try grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon as alternatives.

5. What’s the best way to keep the pasta from sticking?

Toss the pasta with a little olive oil after draining or mix it directly with the sauce.

6. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes! Parmesan or feta cheese adds a great flavor boost.

7. Is this recipe low-carb?

Using protein pasta made from chickpeas or lentils keeps it relatively low in carbs. For an even lower-carb version, substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

8. How do I make the dish more flavorful?

Add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the vegetables while cooking for extra depth.

9. Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes, it works as a cold pasta salad for a refreshing twist.

10. What can I serve with this meal?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Healthy Shrimp Protein Pasta Meal Prep Bowl is a nutritious, flavorful option that’s perfect for busy days. With its lean protein, fresh veggies, and satisfying pasta, it’s a meal that keeps you fueled and satisfied. Try this quick and easy recipe today, and enjoy a week of delicious, wholesome meals!

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Healthy Shrimp Protein Pasta Meal Prep Bowl Recipe

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These healthy shrimp protein pasta meal prep bowls are packed with tender shrimp, high-protein pasta, fresh veggies, and a light garlic-lemon sauce. Perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch or dinner, they’re easy to prepare and full of flavor.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Meal Prep, Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta and Shrimp:

  • 8 oz high-protein pasta (like chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat pasta)
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Veggies:

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers

For the Sauce:

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp:
    • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Veggies:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the garlic, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, cooking for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
    • Stir in the spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until wilted.
  4. Make the Sauce:
    • Add the lemon juice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in now.
  5. Combine Everything:
    • Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
  6. Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls:
    • Divide the pasta mixture evenly into 4 meal prep containers. Let cool before sealing and refrigerating.
  7. Serve:
    • Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.

Notes

  • For extra protein, toss in some cooked chickpeas or white beans.
  • Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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