This tasty grilled shrimp bowl is packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp are grilled to perfection and served over a bed of your favorite veggies, drizzled with a creamy garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible.
I love how quick and easy this bowl comes together! It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, plus it always feels fancy without all the fuss. Who wouldn’t want that creamy garlic goodness? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for grilling as they cook quickly and keep their juiciness. If shrimp aren’t available, you can use chicken breast or firm tofu as alternatives, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil: This gives flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re looking for a different option, try avocado oil, which has a high smoke point. Keep in mind that extra virgin olive oil has more flavor, but regular olive oil is great for cooking.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a nice smoky flavor to the shrimp. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper can work. Just remember, cayenne will add some heat! Adjust to your taste.
Greek Yogurt: It’s a healthier alternative to sour cream for the sauce. Feel free to substitute with regular yogurt, or for a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt or a plant-based sour cream.
How Do You Grill Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Grilling shrimp is quick, but it’s important to get it just right to keep them tender and flavorful. Here are some tips for perfect grilling:
- Preheat your grill: Make sure it’s hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly and prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give the shrimp space on the grill; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
- Watch the color: Shrimp turn pink when cooked. They usually need only 2-3 minutes per side, so keep a close eye on them!
Once they’re pink and opaque, remove them from the heat to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough!
Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Asparagus:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for shrimp)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for asparagus)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take approximately 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and making the sauce, while grilling the shrimp and asparagus will take about 15-20 minutes. Easy and quick for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Toss the trimmed asparagus in another bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. This will help them grill up nicely!
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then set it aside in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
4. Grill the Asparagus:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the asparagus on the grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Once done, remove them from the grill and place them in your serving bowl.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Now it’s time for the shrimp! Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and have lovely grill marks. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
6. Assemble the Bowl:
Start by arranging the grilled asparagus in the bowl. Then, top with the grilled shrimp to create a beautiful presentation.
7. Add Sauce and Garnish:
Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the shrimp and asparagus. Finish off by sprinkling some chopped parsley on top for that fresh touch.
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your healthy, flavorful shrimp bowl right away! It’s perfect on its own, or you can serve it over a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice for extra nutrients and fiber.
FAQs for Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure they grill nicely.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you don’t have asparagus on hand, feel free to use other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas. Just adjust your grilling time according to the vegetables you choose, as some may cook faster or slower than asparagus.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep everything moist!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly in the refrigerator.
