Name: Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/3 cup fresh lime juice; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 3 tbsp sugar; 1-2 tsp chili garlic sauce; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil (can substitute olive oil); 8 oz vermicelli rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions; 1 cup cocktail cucumbers, sliced; shredded lettuce; matchstick carrots; bean sprouts; crushed peanuts; Fresh Thai basil; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Fresh mint, chopped; Lime wedges

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a crave-worthy meal that brings together zesty flavors, juicy shrimp, and a rainbow of crisp veggies, these Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls will absolutely hit the spot. This dish layers tender vermicelli noodles with garlicky, chili-marinated shrimp, and a parade of fresh toppings, all finished with a tangy-sweet sauce that instantly awakens your taste buds. Whether you’re serving up lunch with friends or a weeknight dinner that feels like a celebration, Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls deliver an unforgettable mix of textures and flavors that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls is in how every ingredient plays its part so perfectly—from the punchy marinade to the refreshing crunch of vegetables and the aromatic herbs. These staples come together effortlessly, promising a vibrant, restaurant-worthy bowl you can whip up at home.

Raw shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The main protein, shrimp soak up all the marinade’s bold flavors while turning irresistibly tender and juicy.
Fresh lime juice (1/3 cup): Adds a bright citrus kick that balances everything else out and keeps the dish refreshing.
Fish sauce (2 tbsp): Delivers classic umami and a salty depth that’s signature to Southeast Asian bowls.
Rice vinegar (2 tbsp): Brings a gentle tang that keeps every bite lively and crisp.
Sugar (3 tbsp): Rounds out the sharp and savory with that essential hint of sweet.
Chili garlic sauce (1–2 tsp): Cranks up the heat—add more for extra fire, less to keep things mellow.
Garlic (2 cloves, crushed): Adds warmth and delightful aroma to both the shrimp and sauce.
Fresh ginger (1/2 tsp, grated): Infuses just enough zing; it helps the flavors sing.
Toasted sesame oil (1/4 tsp): A little goes a long way to give a nutty, toasty finish to the sauce.
Vegetable oil (1–2 tbsp): Ensures the shrimp sear up golden and stay tender (olive oil works too, if preferred).
Vermicelli rice noodles (8 oz, cooked): The perfect base—light, slippery, and ready to soak up all the goodness.
Cocktail cucumbers (1 cup, sliced): Super crisp and refreshing for contrast and crunch.
Shredded lettuce: Adds gentle crunch and a bed for all the toppings.
Matchstick carrots: Bright and sweet, they bring color and bite to every forkful.
Bean sprouts: Offer a clean, crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the noodles.
Crushed peanuts: Toasty, salty, and the ultimate finishing crunch (skip them for nut allergies).
Fresh Thai basil: Peppery and aromatic—if you’ve never tried it, this is the moment.
Fresh cilantro, chopped: Lively and fresh, it’s a bowl-brightening must.
Fresh mint, chopped: Cool and uplifting—it rounds out the herbal trio.
Lime wedges: For squeezing on just before eating for a final citrusy pop.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls

Step 1: Make the Marinade and Marinate the Shrimp

Start by whisking together the lime juice, fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, chili garlic sauce, garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a small mixing bowl. This magic mixture will be both the marinade and the final drizzle sauce. Toss the raw shrimp with 3–4 tablespoons of the sauce in a separate bowl and let them marinate for 10–15 minutes while you get the noodles and veggies ready. This quick soak packs every bite of shrimp with flavor and gives you time to prep with zero stress.

Step 2: Prep the Noodles and Veggies

While your shrimp are soaking up that flavorful marinade, cook the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well, rinse with cold water to keep them light and springy, then set aside. Now is also the perfect time for your veggie prep: wash everything, slice the cucumbers, shred the lettuce, cut the carrots into matchsticks, and chop the fresh herbs. Having your toppings ready in little piles makes assembly a breeze.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Time to put those marinated shrimp to work! Heat the vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet (or your favorite nonstick pan) over high heat until it’s nice and shimmering. Shake off any excess marinade and lay the shrimp in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan so they sear, not steam. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until the shrimps are pink, opaque, and slightly caramelized at the edges. Move them to a plate and resist eating them all right now!

Step 4: Assemble Your Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls

Here’s the fun part: building those beautiful bowls! Layer the bowl with shredded lettuce, then pile on your vermicelli noodles, carrots, and bean sprouts. Nestle in your seared shrimp, add rounds of crisp cucumber, and sprinkle generously with Thai basil, cilantro, and mint. Drizzle the rest of that delicious sauce right over the top and finish with a generous sprinkle of crushed peanuts. Tuck lime wedges along the side for squeezing before you dig in and get ready for noodle bowl bliss.

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the magic that a scattering of crushed peanuts, a toss of freshly torn herbs, and a quick zest of lime can bring to these Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls. The garnishes should be plentiful and varied—try extra Thai basil, sprigs of mint, a shower of cilantro, or even a little extra chili garlic sauce if you like it hotter. These finishing touches add amazing texture, aroma, and color!

Side Dishes

While these noodle bowls are a meal on their own, they pair beautifully with simple sides. Think crisp spring rolls, a chilled Asian cucumber salad, or a basket of steamed edamame. If you’re in the mood to really impress, a small bowl of miso soup or lightly pickled vegetables makes a fabulous starter. The sides should complement the brightness and spice of the main event, not compete with it.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun, so don’t be afraid to turn your Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls into a showstopper. Try piling the ingredients in colorful sections before tossing, or serve deconstructed so friends and family can build their own bowls with their favorite toppings. For a summery touch, present the bowls in big lettuce leaves or mix things up by serving in mason jars for a picnic-friendly surprise. However you serve them, a generous wedge of fresh lime is a non-negotiable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply store the components separately for best results. Keep the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge, and do the same for the noodles and chopped veggies. This way, your herbs and greens stay crisp, and everything tastes fresh when you’re ready to enjoy round two of Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls.

Freezing

While cooked shrimp freezes fairly well, the noodles and veggies are best enjoyed fresh. If you need to freeze, pop just the cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe bag and use within a month. Let them thaw in the fridge before reheating; keep the noodles and toppings separate so their texture doesn’t suffer.

Reheating

For the best eating experience, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for just a minute or two, until warmed through. The noodles won’t need much more than a quick rinse in hot water to loosen them up. Assemble your bowls as before, topping with fresh herbs, crisp veggies, and that irresistible sauce for a meal that’s nearly as good as new.

FAQs

Can I make Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls less spicy?

Absolutely! Just use less chili garlic sauce or opt for a milder chili sauce. You can always serve extra on the side for those who love that extra kick.

What other proteins can I use instead of shrimp?

These bowls are super versatile. Try swapping the shrimp for grilled chicken, seared tofu, or even thinly sliced beef—the marinade and toppings work beautifully no matter the main protein.

Can I prepare Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most components a few hours in advance. Store the shrimp, noodles, and veggies separately, then assemble right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

My noodles clumped together. How can I fix that?

If your vermicelli noodles stick, just rinse them with cool water and gently toss with a splash of sesame or vegetable oil. This will separate them without altering the flavor.

Are Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls gluten-free?

When you use gluten-free fish sauce and double-check that your chili garlic sauce is wheat-free, these bowls are a fantastic gluten-free option—just make sure your noodles are 100 percent rice-based.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing more satisfying than diving into homemade Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls, with every bite bursting with juicy shrimp, vibrant herbs, and lip-smacking sauce. I can’t wait for you to try it—grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of flavor-packed happiness tonight!

Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 5 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Spicy Shrimp and Noodle Bowls are a delicious and satisfying meal filled with vibrant flavors and textures. Tender shrimp marinated in a zesty sauce are paired with vermicelli rice noodles and an array of fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish.

Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, chili garlic sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Toss raw shrimp in 3-4 tbsp of the sauce and marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Prepare Noodles and Vegetables: Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water and set aside. Wash and prepare the vegetables and herbs.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet, and cook the shrimp in a single layer for 1-2 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Assemble the Bowls: Arrange lettuce, noodles, carrots, and bean sprouts in a bowl. Top with shrimp, cucumber slices, and herbs. Drizzle with remaining sauce, sprinkle with crushed peanuts, and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by altering the amount of chili garlic sauce used.
Feel free to customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables and toppings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian