Last updated on June 25, 2025
Welcome to the world of vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients with this delightful recipe for Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls! This dish beautifully combines the spicy and smoky notes of harissa with the sweetness of honey, creating a balance that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these shrimp bowls are not only delicious but also very easy to make. Whether you are cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, these bowls will impress your guests with their color and flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowl
This Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowl is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nourishing and satisfying meal. Here are a few reasons why you will absolutely love it:
- Quick and Easy: The entire dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of harissa and honey creates an irresistible taste that is both spicy and sweet.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with shrimp and fresh vegetables, this bowl is high in protein and nutrients.
- Customizable: You can easily tailor the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful toppings make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing family and friends.

Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Description
These Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls are bursting with bold flavors—spicy, sweet, and savory. Served over rice with crisp greens, tangy pickled onions, and creamy feta, it’s a satisfying, colorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp & Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons harissa sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Bowls:
- Chopped romaine
- Cooked white rice
- Pickled onions
- Crumbled feta
- Avocado, sliced
- Chopped fresh mint
- Chopped fresh dill
Optional Add-Ons:
- Sliced radishes
- Chickpeas
- Roasted vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, zucchini, sweet potatoes)
- Sriracha or other hot sauce
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together harissa sauce, honey, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Shake off excess marinade and cook the shrimp in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of chopped romaine and cooked rice. Add cooked shrimp and layer on toppings: pickled onions, feta, avocado, mint, and dill. Add any optional extras as desired.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or cold. Great for meal prep!
Notes
- To reduce heat, use mild harissa or add more honey to the marinade.
- Marinate shrimp no longer than 30 minutes to avoid a mushy texture.
- Can be served warm or chilled for a refreshing lunch bowl.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Bowl
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: undefined
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: undefined
Keywords: honey harissa shrimp, shrimp bowl, spicy shrimp recipe, healthy dinner, Mediterranean bowl, meal prep shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need for Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
To create this delicious Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowl, gather the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons harissa sauce: This North African chili paste adds a delightful spiciness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: This balances the heat from the harissa with natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Great for cooking the shrimp and keeping things moist.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a fresh and zesty flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed: Garlic gives depth and richness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: This warm spice enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Use these to season the shrimp perfectly.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Epicenter of our dish that provides protein.
- Chopped romaine for serving: This provides a nice crunch.
- Cooked white rice for serving: Acts as a base and soaks up all the flavors.
- Pickled onions for serving: They add tanginess and vibrant color.
- Crumbled feta for serving: A creamy contrast and a dose of saltiness.
- Avocado for serving: Provides creaminess and healthy fats.
- Chopped fresh mint and dill for serving: These herbs brighten the flavor profile.
Optional Add-Ons
Feel free to mix things up with these optional add-ons:
- Sliced radishes: For an extra crunch and peppery flavor.
- Chickpeas: For plant-based protein and fiber.
- Roasted vegetables: Like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for added heartiness.
- Sriracha or other hot sauce: If you like it extra spicy!
How to Make Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls: Step by Step
Follow these detailed steps to prepare your vibrant Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls. Trust me; it will be worth the effort!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by gathering a mixing bowl. Add in the harissa sauce, honey, olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, cumin, and some salt and pepper.
Using a whisk, mix everything together until well blended. The mixture should be smooth and aromatic, with the sweet and spicy flavors mingling beautifully.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Next, take your shrimp and add it to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the shrimp gently, making sure they are well coated in the flavorful mixture.
Once coated, let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes. This gives the flavors time to infuse and ensures your shrimp will be packed with taste.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
After marinating, it’s time to cook! Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the pan. It’s important to shake off any excess marinade so they don’t steam but instead get a nice sear.
Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Each batch should cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns opaque and displays a gorgeous pink color.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, it’s time to assemble your bowls!
- Start with a base of chopped romaine.
- Next, spoon in cooked white rice.
- Arrange the cooked shrimp on top.
- Now, layer on your toppings: pickled onions, crumbled feta, slices of avocado, and chopped fresh mint and dill.
The colors should pop and make the dish look incredibly enticing!
Serving Suggestions for Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
These bowls are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Serve with pita bread or warm naan on the side for an added carb option.
- Drizzle a little more honey or extra harissa for those who love a kick.
- A dollop of yogurt or tzatziki can add a creamy element that balances the flavors.
- Pair it with a light, fresh salad on the side to make a fuller meal.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
- Quality Shrimp: Buy fresh or good-quality frozen shrimp to ensure the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly. Keep an eye on them so they stay juicy and tender.
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the shrimp the night before for a hassle-free meal the next day.
- Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of harissa based on your spice preference.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint and dill add a burst of flavor that dried herbs cannot replicate.
Easy Variations for Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients:
- Different Proteins: Try chicken breast or turkey if shrimp isn’t available.
- Grains: Swap out white rice for quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition.
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of shrimp for a vegetarian twist.
- Different Vegetables: Top with sautéed bell peppers or roasted zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Storage Tips to Store Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
If you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, here’s how to properly store your shrimp bowls:
- Refrigerate: Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid Mixing: Keep the components separate if you plan to store them. Keep lettuce, rice, and toppings in different containers to maintain freshness.
- Reheat Wisely: When reheating shrimp, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Freezing: While cooked shrimp can be frozen, they may not retain the best texture. If you choose to, be sure to consume them within the month for best flavor and quality.
Conclusion
The Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowl is a colorful, tasty, and healthy choice for any meal. With its blend of sweet, spicy, and savory ingredients, it’s no surprise that this dish has become a favorite for so many. Whether you’re trying this recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of meal prep for the week, the vibrant flavors will keep you coming back for more. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste and enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQs About Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls
Can I use a different type of shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of shrimp you like—just ensure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.
What can I substitute if I can’t find harissa sauce?
If you cannot find harissa, you can use sriracha mixed with some smoked paprika to mimic that smoky and spicy flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! You can substitute shrimp with chickpeas or tofu. Just adjust the cooking times to ensure everything is well-prepared.
How long does it take to make honey harissa shrimp bowls?
This recipe can be prepared in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Now that you have all the details, get ready to make these flavorful Honey Harissa Shrimp Bowls that are sure to impress!
Looking for more delicious recipes? Follow us on Pinterest and Facebook!