Tomato Basil Shrimp Rice Bowls
When dinner needs to come together quickly without sacrificing fresh flavor, these rice bowls are an effortless answer. Tender shrimp cook rapidly in olive oil and minced garlic before halved cherry tomatoes join the pan, softening just enough to release their sweet pan juices. Stirring in ribboned fresh basil off the heat keeps the herb vivid and aromatic. Ladled over steaming jasmine rice, the garlic-infused juices naturally coat each grain, creating a cohesive and satisfying meal in minimal time.
Why this one works
- Sweet cherry tomatoes soften in the skillet to create a light, natural garlic pan sauce.
- Peeled shrimp cook to tender perfection in just a few minutes over medium heat.
- Jasmine rice offers a fragrant, neutral bed that absorbs every drop of seasoned olive oil.
- Adding fresh basil at the very end preserves its bright color and herbal aroma.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup (185g) jasmine rice Cook according to package instructions so the grains remain distinct, fluffy, and tender.
- 1 lb (450g) peeled shrimp Pat thoroughly dry with clean paper towels before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes Halve them prior to cooking so their juices readily blend with the garlic and oil.
- 1/2 cup (20g) fresh basil leaves Chop or tear gently and incorporate off the heat to prevent the leaves from darkening.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil Provides the rich base that gently sautés the garlic and carries pan flavors.
- 2 cloves (10g) minced garlic Mince finely and cook gently alongside the shrimp so it softens without scorching.
TRY THIS NEXT: If these flavors sound good to you, Tomato Basil Shrimp Quinoa Bowls is a natural one to save for next time.
What to have nearby
- Medium saucepan with lid for the rice
- Large skillet
- Chef's knife and cutting board
Step-by-step instructions
Start the jasmine rice first so it steams while you prepare the seafood. Because shrimp and garlic cook in only a few minutes, having the tomatoes halved and basil chopped ahead of time ensures a smooth, stress-free skillet process.
- 1Step 1
Cook the jasmine rice according to package directions.
- 2Step 2
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- 3Step 3
Add minced garlic and shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque.
- 4Step 4
Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and cook until slightly softened.
- 5Step 5
Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped basil.
- 6Step 6
Serve the shrimp and tomato mixture over bowls of warm fluffy rice.
ALSO GOOD: If these flavors sound good to you, Salmon Tomato Spinach Orzo with Tomato Basil Sauce is a natural one to save for next time.
A few things worth knowing
- Keep the skillet over a steady medium heat so the garlic releases its aroma without burning or turning bitter.
- Watch the shrimp closely and turn them as soon as the undersides turn opaque and pink to avoid overcooking.
- Remove the skillet from the heat source right before stirring in the basil to retain its fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
Ways to make it your own
- Sprinkle a small pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the skillet for subtle warmth.
- Finish each bowl with an extra light drizzle of olive oil over the rice before serving.
Serving suggestions
Serve immediately while the rice is hot and the shrimp are freshly cooked. These bowls pair naturally with steamed green beans, roasted zucchini spears, or a simple crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette.
Storage & reheating
Store cooled leftover shrimp, tomatoes, and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a covered skillet or microwave with a light sprinkle of water to prevent the shrimp from toughening and the rice from drying out.
Nutrition notes
Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.
Quick recipe answers
Can frozen shrimp be used for this recipe?+
Yes. Ensure the shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels before adding them to the hot skillet.
Why is the basil stirred in after removing the pan from the heat?+
Fresh basil is delicate and loses its aromatic sweetness if simmered. Residual heat is plenty to warm the leaves while keeping them bright green.
With tender shrimp, burst tomatoes, and sweet basil resting on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, this bowl brings fresh, clean flavors together with minimal effort. It is a straightforward, dependable meal to keep in your regular dinner rotation.
Tomato Basil Shrimp Rice Bowls
Sautéed garlic shrimp and tender cherry tomatoes tossed with fragrant fresh basil, served over fluffy warm jasmine rice for a fast, balanced dinner bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (185g) jasmine rice
- 1 lb (450g) peeled shrimp
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (20g) fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves (10g) minced garlic
Instructions
- Cook the jasmine rice according to package directions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and cook until slightly softened.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped basil.
- Serve the shrimp and tomato mixture over bowls of warm fluffy rice.
Nutrition
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