This Garlic Shrimp & Yellow Rice is a bright, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. Tender shrimp are sautéed in fragrant garlic and olive oil, then paired with fluffy golden rice, sweet roasted peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Finished with a squeeze of lemon, this colorful dish delivers fresh coastal flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy one-pan meal
Juicy garlic shrimp packed with flavor
Colorful Mediterranean ingredients
Light, healthy, and satisfying
Perfect for lunch or dinner
Ingredients
Yellow Rice
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth or water
1 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
Garlic Shrimp
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Vegetables
1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
To Finish
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Yellow Rice
In a saucepan, bring broth or water to a boil.
Stir in rice, turmeric, olive oil, and salt.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender.
Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
- Season the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and tender.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add roasted peppers and cherry tomatoes.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and the tomatoes begin to soften.
Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently.
- Assemble & Serve
Spoon fluffy yellow rice onto serving plates or bowls.
Top with garlic shrimp, roasted peppers, and tomatoes.
Sprinkle generously with fresh parsley.
Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Tips & Variations
Add olives for extra Mediterranean flavor
Use saffron instead of turmeric for authentic yellow rice
Add spinach or zucchini for more vegetables
Try grilled shrimp for a smoky flavor
Serve with feta cheese for extra richness
What to Serve With Garlic Shrimp & Yellow Rice
Greek salad
Warm pita bread
Tzatziki sauce
Roasted asparagus
Cucumber tomato salad
Quick Info
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
What makes the rice yellow?
Turmeric gives the rice its vibrant golden color and subtle earthy flavor.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time according to package directions.
