Southern Garlic Butter Salmon & Shrimp Rice Bowl

by

Southern Garlic Butter Salmon & Shrimp Rice Bowl

Tender, flaky salmon and juicy garlic butter shrimp served over fluffy rice make this comforting Southern-inspired meal rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It’s an easy restaurant-style dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 2–3
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

  • 250 g (½ lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning

For the Rice

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Garnishes

  • Lemon wedges
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice, water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) and cook for 3–4 minutes. Carefully flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the salmon is golden, flaky, and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let it rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Shrimp

Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the shrimp and season with Cajun or Creole seasoning. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the fluffy buttered rice onto serving plates. Top each serving with a salmon fillet and a generous portion of garlic butter shrimp. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the top.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips

  • Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to achieve a beautifully crisp exterior.
  • Fresh garlic provides the richest flavor, but garlic paste can be used in a pinch.
  • For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp.
  • Brown or jasmine rice also works well as an alternative to white rice.
  • Pair with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, so avoid overheating to maintain their texture.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 640 kcal
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fat: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 1 g

Leave a Comment