Delicious Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf: 35-Minute Meal

Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf is a cozy and flavorful one-pan meal that has become my go-to choice for busy weeknights. This dish features tender shrimp and fluffy bulgur, all enveloped in a rich, tomato-based sauce. In just 35 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf

This shrimp bulgur pilaf is not just delicious; it also comes with numerous benefits. First, it’s a healthy shrimp bulgur meal packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option. Second, the dish is incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for those busy nights. Third, the combination of flavors from the herbs and spices makes it a standout choice. Additionally, it’s versatile, allowing for variations such as a shrimp bulgur salad or a bulgur wheat shrimp dish. Lastly, being a one-pot meal means less cleanup afterwards, giving you more time to enjoy your dinner.

Ingredients for Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf

Gather these items:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup medium bulgur
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

How to Make Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Warm your skillet over medium heat and have your saucepan ready.
2. Step 2: In the skillet, add olive oil and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, tomato paste, paprika, and cumin. Cook until fragrant.
3. Step 3: In a saucepan, add bulgur and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Step 5: Fluff the cooked bulgur with a fork and fold into the skillet mixture. Let simmer for a few minutes.
6. Step 6: Turn off the heat, add lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
7. Step 7: Scoop into bowls and serve warm with optional lemon wedges.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
• Adjust the spices to suit your taste—try adding some chili flakes for heat.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf

This bulgur pilaf with shrimp can be served in various delightful ways. Try it alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it in a shrimp bulgur grain bowl topped with avocado for a healthy twist. Alternatively, consider pairing it with a tangy yogurt sauce for added creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf

To store leftovers, place the shrimp and bulgur one-pot meal in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This dish also works well as a meal prep option, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf

What’s the secret to perfect Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf?

The key to perfect shrimp bulgur pilaf is to ensure your shrimp are cooked just until pink and tender, avoiding overcooking. The combination of spices, especially paprika and cumin, also elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

Can I make Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp bulgur salad in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you measure your bulgur and broth accurately for the right texture. Also, avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Variations of Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf You Can Try

Customize your bulgur pilaf with shrimp by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also turn it into a shrimp bulgur stir-fry by tossing it in a wok with some soy sauce and ginger. For a different flavor profile, try adding fresh herbs like dill or mint for a refreshing twist!

For more delicious recipes, check out Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or Homemade Tomato Sauce. If you’re interested in the health benefits of shrimp, visit Healthline for more information.

Delicious Shrimp Bulgur Pilaf: 35-Minute Meal

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A cozy and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender shrimp, fluffy bulgur, and a tomato-rich base, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

• Author: Andrew
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Seafood

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup medium bulgur
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

1. Warm your skillet over medium heat and have your saucepan ready.
2. In the skillet, add olive oil and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, tomato paste, paprika, and cumin. Cook until fragrant.
3. In a saucepan, add bulgur and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Fluff the cooked bulgur with a fork and fold into the skillet mixture. Let simmer for a few minutes.
6. Turn off the heat, add lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
7. Scoop into bowls and serve warm with optional lemon wedges.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 200mg