Ever crave a meal that’s light, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes—with just one pan to clean? This One Pot Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables recipe might just become your new weeknight favorite. Loaded with fresh vegetables, plump shrimp, and a zesty lemon herb finish, it captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in the easiest way possible.

I love how everything comes together in a single skillet—the juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp zucchini, and vibrant bell peppers all soak up the garlicky olive oil for a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner, follow a Mediterranean diet, or simply want a satisfying low-carb seafood recipe, this one’s for you.

Let’s dive into a meal that’s bright, balanced, and bursting with coastal flavor.

Key Benefits of One Pot Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables

What makes this recipe a standout? It’s not just the vibrant colors or the irresistible flavors—it’s the simplicity, nutrition, and versatility that make it a go-to dish for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for yourself, here’s why you’ll love it:

One Pot = Less Mess
No one loves a sink full of dishes after dinner. With this one-skillet recipe, you’ll sauté, simmer, and serve—all from the same pan. Quick to cook, quicker to clean.

 Mediterranean Diet-Friendly
This dish is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like olive oil, garlic, shrimp, and fresh vegetables—hallmarks of the Mediterranean diet. It’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and rich in lean protein and omega-3s.

 Fast and Flavorful
In under 30 minutes, you get a satisfying shrimp dinner bursting with garlic, lemon, and herb-infused goodness. Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

Versatile and Customizable
Not a fan of zucchini? Swap in asparagus or mushrooms. Want more spice? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or smoked paprika. This recipe welcomes your personal touch.

Visually Stunning, Nutritionally Balanced
Bright cherry tomatoes, green zucchini, yellow peppers—every ingredient adds a pop of color and a dose of nutrients, making the dish both beautiful and balanced.

With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal that feels like a mini Mediterranean escape—without leaving your kitchen. Let’s keep things simple, healthy, and seriously satisfying.

Ingredients for One Pot Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables

Before we get cooking, let’s round up everything you’ll need. This recipe calls for fresh, colorful ingredients and a few pantry staples that bring bold Mediterranean flavor to life. Don’t worry—nothing fancy, just real, wholesome goodness.

Here’s what you’ll need:

 Protein

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off, your choice)

 Tip: Frozen shrimp work great too—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best sear.

 Vegetables

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

 The more color, the better! These veggies not only boost nutrition but also make the dish pop visually.

 Pantry & Flavor Boosters

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 Lemon juice adds brightness and pairs perfectly with shrimp—don’t skip it!

Want to customize it? Go ahead:

• Swap zucchini for asparagus or broccoli florets
• Use basil or thyme instead of oregano
• Add olives or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flair

Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go (hello, mise en place!) will make the cooking process smooth, fun, and totally stress-free. Let’s get to the good part—bringing it all together in one delicious pan.

How to Make Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables

This recipe is as breezy as a summer evening by the sea—quick, colorful, and full of vibrant flavor. Grab your favorite skillet or Dutch oven, and let’s walk through each step together. You’ll be surprised how something so simple can taste this fresh and satisfying.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients
Before anything hits the pan, have everything chopped and ready. This one-pot recipe comes together fast, so a little prep goes a long way.

• Slice the zucchini, bell peppers, and onion.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic.
• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear instead of steam.

 Pro tip: Use a large cutting board and prep your veggies in groups to stay organized.

2. Sauté the vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add the onion, zucchini, and bell peppers.
• Sauté for 4–5 minutes until they start to soften but still have a bit of bite.
• Stir in the garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.

 The veggies should be tender-crisp and still bright—it’s all about that fresh Mediterranean texture.

3. Season and add the shrimp
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and drizzle in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

• Add the shrimp in a single layer and season everything with oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
• Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

 Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and keep the dish juicy when timed right.

4. Finish with lemon and parsley
Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire pan. Toss gently to coat everything in that tangy, herby goodness.

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

That final lemon hit brightens every bite—it’s your Mediterranean secret weapon.

And just like that, dinner is done! With its perfectly sautéed shrimp, crisp-tender veggies, and sunny Mediterranean flavors, this dish feels like something special—without all the fuss. Serve it straight from the skillet for rustic charm and easy cleanup.

Pro Tips and Easy Variations

Want to make this Mediterranean shrimp skillet even better or tailor it to your tastes? You’re in luck—this recipe is incredibly flexible. Whether you’re trying to spice things up or work with what’s in your fridge, these tips and swaps will make your cooking smoother and more fun.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked
  Raw shrimp cook quickly and absorb flavor better. Overcooked pre-cooked shrimp can turn rubbery.
• Don’t crowd the pan
  If your skillet is on the smaller side, cook the shrimp in batches. This ensures everything sears instead of steams, giving you better texture and flavor.
• Pat shrimp and veggies dry
  A quick blot with a paper towel helps get that golden sear and avoids excess moisture in the pan.
• Finish with fresh lemon juice off heat
  Adding lemon at the end preserves its brightness and keeps the dish tasting fresh—not bitter or dull.
• Use a cast iron or wide non-stick skillet
  A heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat evenly and helps everything cook beautifully.

 Delicious Variations to Try

• Make it spicy:
  Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat.
• Swap your veggies:
  Try asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts if you want to mix it up.
• Add grains or pasta:
  Serve over quinoa, orzo, or couscous for a heartier meal. It soaks up all those Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
• Make it dairy-friendly:
  Crumble a bit of feta cheese on top just before serving for a creamy, tangy finish.
• Go full vegan:
  Swap shrimp for chickpeas or marinated tofu, and you’ve got a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.

No matter how you twist it, this one pot shrimp and vegetables recipe is all about ease, flexibility, and flavor. So don’t be afraid to experiment—it’s a forgiving dish that loves a little creativity.

Serving Suggestions

You’ve got a vibrant skillet of Mediterranean shrimp and vegetables—now what? Whether you’re going for a light lunch, a full dinner, or something in between, here are some effortless serving ideas to round out your meal and highlight those bold coastal flavors.

 Classic Pairings

• Crusty bread or warm pita:
  Perfect for soaking up those garlicky juices and olive oil. Trust me—you won’t want to leave a drop behind.
• Over grains:
  Serve your shrimp and veggies over fluffy quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to make it more filling. These grains absorb flavor beautifully and add a wholesome base.
• With pasta:
  Toss everything with cooked orzo or whole wheat spaghetti for a quick Mediterranean-style pasta bowl. A drizzle of extra lemon and olive oil brings it all together.

 Fresh Additions

• Simple green salad:
  A side salad with arugula, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich shrimp flavors and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Feta and olive platter:
  Add a small plate of crumbled feta, kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers for a casual, tapas-style experience.
• Tzatziki or hummus:
  For a creamy contrast, serve with a spoonful of tzatziki or hummus on the side—especially if you’re wrapping everything in a pita.

 For a Dinner Party

• Serve the shrimp and vegetables straight from the skillet for a rustic, elegant presentation.
• Pair with a chilled glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé for a complete Mediterranean experience.

This dish is deliciously versatile, so feel free to mix and match sides based on what you love or what’s already in your kitchen. Whether you’re going full dinner mode or keeping it casual, this easy shrimp recipe shines in any setting.

Conclusion

There you have it—a bright, flavorful, and nutritious One Pot Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. With minimal cleanup, fresh ingredients, and bold Mediterranean flavors, this dish fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or health.

Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests with something special, it’s a winning choice every time.

So next time you want a quick, wholesome, and satisfying meal that captures the best of coastal cuisine, this shrimp and vegetable skillet will be ready to deliver. Dive in, savor every bite, and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean—right at home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common queries about this One Pot Mediterranean Shrimp and Vegetables recipe, answered with tips to make your cooking even easier and more enjoyable.

If you have other questions or want more tips, don’t hesitate to ask. Cooking is all about experimenting and making recipes your own, and I’m here to help you every step of the way!