Grilled Shrimp with Asparagus & Brown Rice: A Light, Nourishing Dinner

Flavorful. Balanced. Perfectly Satisfying.

Ever crave a dinner that feels indulgent yet light on your body?
This Grilled Shrimp with Asparagus & Brown Rice checks all the boxes — lean protein, fresh veggies, and wholesome grains in one beautiful plate.

Whether you’re balancing hormones, focusing on heart health, or simply craving clean, fresh flavors, this dinner delivers both taste and nourishment.

Let’s dive into how to make it, why it’s perfect for perimenopause and menopause, and a few pro tips from Umri’s natural living philosophy.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

For the Asparagus

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• For the Brown Rice
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• ¼ tsp salt (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Brown Rice

1. Rinse & prepare: Rinse brown rice under cold water.
2. Cook: Combine rice, water (or broth), and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 40–45 minutes.
3. Fluff & rest: Once tender, remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

• Marinate: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and marinate for 10–15 minutes.
• Grill: 
  

1. Outdoor grill: Preheat to medium-high. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
2. Stovetop: Use a grill pan for the same timing.

• Set aside: Remove from heat once opaque and juicy.

Step 3: Grill the Asparagus

• Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Grill for 3–4 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
• Add lemon zest before serving for a burst of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

• Base: Spoon a serving of warm brown rice onto each plate.
• Top: Add grilled asparagus and shrimp.
• Finish: Drizzle leftover marinade or fresh lemon juice over the top.

Simple, elegant, and full of color — a dinner that feels as good as it looks.

Nutritional Benefits for Perimenopause & Menopause

1. Shrimp — Lean Protein for Muscle Support

• Rich in high-quality protein, crucial for maintaining muscle mass as estrogen levels decline.
• Contains small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support joint and brain health.
• Low in calories and carbs — ideal for a light yet filling dinner.

   Did you know? According to the National Library of Medicine, incorporating lean proteins like shrimp can promote cardiovascular wellness.

2. Asparagus — Green Goodness for Skin & Brain

• Loaded with folate to support brain function and memory.
• High in antioxidants like vitamins C and E that keep skin glowing and resilient.
• Naturally low in calories and supports digestive health with fiber.

3. Brown Rice — Sustained Energy & Hormone Balance

• A complex carbohydrate that provides long-lasting energy and helps stabilize blood sugar.
• Contains magnesium, a key mineral that can ease menopause-related sleep disturbances and anxiety.
• Gluten-free and easy to digest.

Explore Umri’s Ingredient Detail Page to see how these nutrient profiles align with Umri’s hormone-supportive recipes and natural formulations.

4. Olive Oil — Healthy Fats for Heart & Hormones

• Full of monounsaturated fats that promote cardiovascular and hormonal balance.
• Acts as an anti-inflammatory and supports skin elasticity — something every woman deserves to feel confident about.
• A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil also boosts flavor while keeping your meal light.

Tips & Variations

• Spice it up: Add chilli flakes or Cajun seasoning for a bold flavor.
• Swap veggies: Use broccoli or green beans if asparagus isn’t in season.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds on top.
• Serve with: A glass of Umri Passionfruit & Peach Drink for a refreshing antioxidant boost.

Nutrition Snapshot

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes — marinate the shrimp and cook the rice in advance for quick weekday dinners.

Q2: How does Umri’s philosophy fit into this meal?
Umri emphasizes natural, hormone-balancing nutrition. This dinner aligns with that approach — whole foods, healthy fats, and lean protein that support women’s wellness.

Q3: Can I pair this with Umri drinks?
Definitely! Pairing it with the Passionfruit & Peach Umri Drink enhances hydration and delivers antioxidants for a refreshing finish.

Q4: What if I don’t eat shrimp?
Try tofu or grilled tempeh for a plant-based variation with similar benefits.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Shrimp with Asparagus & Brown Rice isn’t just dinner — it’s nourishment with purpose.
Every bite delivers what your body craves during perimenopause and menopause: clean protein, steady energy, healthy fats, and micronutrients that support hormone health.

It’s easy, vibrant, and balanced — just like the kind of life Umri helps women create every day.

  Discover more naturally balanced recipes and ingredients at Umri’s Ingredient Library and embrace wellness that tastes as good as it feels.