This Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl is a real treat! Juicy shrimp are grilled to perfection and topped with a creamy garlic sauce that adds a delightful twist.
I love how fresh and bright this bowl feels—perfect for a sunny day! You can mix in your favorite veggies for a colorful meal that makes you smile. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp can work too—just make sure to thaw them properly before grilling. I usually go for large shrimp as they give a great texture and hold up well on the grill.
Greek yogurt: This is used for the creamy garlic sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with low-fat yogurt or sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a nut-based yogurt.
Corn: Fresh corn gives the best taste in the salsa, but frozen corn is a great alternative. If corn is out of season, consider using roasted red peppers or diced cucumbers for a crunchy, colorful twist.
Avocado: Always a hit! If you need a substitute, mashed chickpeas can work for a similar creamy texture. However, they won’t provide the same richness.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp is quick, but it requires attention. Here’s how to do it right:
- Medium-high heat is key. This ensures a nice sear without overcooking the shrimp.
- Don’t crowd the grill. Space the shrimp out so they cook evenly. If you’re using a grill pan, do it in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque—overcooking can make them rubbery.
Once off the grill, let them rest briefly before serving. This helps keep them tender and juicy! Enjoy your delightful shrimp bowl!
Healthy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lime
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or plain yogurt)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for heat
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/2 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for spice)
- Juice of 1/2 lime (for corn salsa)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10-15 minutes for prep and marinating, and about 15 minutes to cook and assemble the dish. It’s an easy, quick option for a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the shrimp, tossing it well to coat. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10-15 minutes for the best flavor.
2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and if you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Mix everything together really well and set it aside in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
3. Prepare the Corn Salsa:
In a medium bowl, toss together the corn kernels, diced red onion, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and as always, a pinch of salt to taste. Stir it well, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Place the shrimp on the grill, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and charred. It’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook, which can make them tough.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
In each serving bowl, start by spooning in the corn salsa followed by a generous scoop of mashed avocado. Then, add the grilled shrimp on top.
6. Add the Sauce:
Drizzle your creamy garlic sauce generously over the shrimp. This brings all the flavors together beautifully!
7. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your healthy grilled shrimp bowl warm, as it’s packed with delicious flavors and fresh ingredients. This meal is not just good for you, but it’s also a feast for the eyes!
Feel free to customize your bowl with other favorite veggies or toppings. Enjoy! 🌿🍤
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes in a sealed bag.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming tough. You can also enjoy the bowl cold for a refreshing meal!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Sauce?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt or any nut-based yogurt. For a lower-fat option, low-fat plain yogurt or sour cream works great, too!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add more jalapeño in the corn salsa. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the jalapeño and cayenne entirely!